Halfway up the Mozambique coast lies a chain of five islands making up the Bazaruto Archipelago. Form from sand deposited by the Limpopo River, fine beaches and coral reefs come naturally; and having long been a national park, so does the wildlife. Bazurato, Benguerra and Magaruque are the largest islands, with Santa Carolina and finally Bangue coming in on the small side. Photo by: André Pipa

Thanks to their protected status and relative isolation from the ravages of war, nature has been free to flourish here. Bazurato Island itself is 37 km long, and there gaudy pink flamingos strut the tidal flats, while large Nile crocodiles lurk in the inland freshwater lakes. The west is cloaked in grassland and thicket while the east coast is built entirely of impressive sand dunes. Photo by: yobosayo

Banguerra is about 11 km long and its blend of forest, savanah and wetlands provides rich pickings for local wildlife. Cashew nuts are native to the island and grow mainly on the seaward side. Photo by: yobosayo

Wild orange trees and sisal trees abound, as do mlala palms – the leaves of which are used in the waving of mats, baskets and hats. Nature lovers, sun worshipers and water sorts enthusiasts alike are drawn there. It may be said of other places, but this is a true tropical paradise with clear turquoise waters and endless palm-dotted beaches. Everyday you can snorkel and surf and run coral pink sand through your fingers. There are no roads, no shops and no tourist attractions, just the nature and the lovely everyday sun. Photo by: Brad Hunter Surrey Vancouver BC

When to go: Year-round but avoid the cyclone season in February. Little rainfall between April and November. Population: 3,500. How to get there: Flights into Viklankulo with connections onto the archipelago. You should know: The locals use the husks from the harvested cashews to make very intoxicating liquor. Photo by: darrenornitz