The islands were formed from ancient sand dunes that slowly rose up from the sea floor thousands of years ago. Some dunes are still there today, giant golden hills of sand that you can slide down and then splash straight into the ocean. It is one of the only places on Earth where you can do both in the same afternoon.
Under the water is a dazzling coral reef full of colourful fish, sea turtles, and even dugongs – gentle sea mammals that look a little like plump mermaids. The dugong population here is one of the largest left in the western Indian Ocean, which makes Bazaruto very special for scientists and nature lovers.
Fishing villages have existed on these islands for hundreds of years. Local fishermen still go out in traditional wooden dhow boats with triangle sails that catch the ocean breeze. When the catch comes in, the whole village gathers at the shore.
Because the archipelago is a protected park, very few people are allowed to visit at one time. That means the beaches are almost always quiet, the water stays clean, and the animals feel safe. It is a perfect example of how protecting nature keeps it beautiful for everyone.