Pristine white beaches, breathtaking views overlooking the blue waters of the warm Indian Ocean, natural beauty, sandy dunes, solitude…this is a true island paradise. Indigo Bay is an exquisite resort, situated on the largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique. The resort offers world-class island accommodation providing the perfect island holiday. All resort’s chalets are constructed of natural materials to blend harmoniously with the surroundings.

Bazaruto is one of premier scuba diving destinations in Africa. The coastline is home to five of the world’s seven marine turtle species and the world’s largest roseate terns. Divers are able to see over 100 species of coral, thousands of tropical fish species, five kinds of dolphins, four whale species and sharks. Activities include island walks, horse back riding, and islands drives in a Land Rover to explore this intricate eco system. The water sports including: diving, fishing, snorkeling and sailing.

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

Mozambique has huge variety of natural attractions including string of sub-tropical islands, coral lagoons, spectacular beaches, 2500 km coastline and etc. Now we’re meeting with the Bazaruto Archipelago which is one of the most popular destinations in Mozambique.

There, the blue waters of the Indian Ocean are filled with colorful coral reefs which are ideal for watersports enthusiasts. The Bazaruto Archipelago is protecting marine national park. Home to all manner of wildlife, it’s known as some of the best diving area in the world. The most spectacular of the marine mammals are the Dugongs (sea cow) which were probably responsible for the myth of the mermaids. Other species to be found are manta rays, potato bass, marlin, five species of dolphins and the giant sunfish which can grow up to six meters long.

The archipelago with its long white sandy beaches is perfect spot for those just wishing to relax and magical escape. This is the paradise for those seeking a haven of peace and something extraordinary.

Ibo Island is nestled in the Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique. This archipelago consists of 27 islands, 11 of which fall within a National Park, including Ibo. Nominated for World Heritage status Ibo is one of the most unique and magnificent islands in the world. Ibo offers pristine beaches, opportunity for total relax and tranquility that will change your life forever.

Located right on the prime waterfront site, Ibo Island Lodge has been adapted from a 100 year old magnificent mansion. The building is perfectly restored – with large luxurious rooms with tall ceilings and magnificent carved wooden doors. All of the nine rooms are individually designed with antiques and handcrafted furniture.

The Ibo Island Lodge offers a romantic island experience with the wide verandas which are adorned with mahogany beds, decorated with the softest of cushions covered in vibrant local fabrics. You can overlook the ocean from the verandas watching time and tides going by.

At Ibo Island you can explore some of the world’s richest coral reefs. Diving, swimming, snorkeling, sea kayaking are available. Guests at the lodge can partake in various Ibo island sailing tours, with traditional dhow boats. Also there are two swimming pools set amongst amazing tropical garden of palm, mangrove and frangipani and only 50 m from the ocean. Prices – From £ 197 to £ 220 per person, per night.

Mozambique is a Portuguese colony and home to over 1, 500 miles of undeveloped Indian Ocean beachfront. Some of the finest diving and deep sea marlin fishing in the world and a unique Afro-Iberian-Brazilian culture with one of the most relaxing tourism destination.

The capital of Mozambique is Maputo which is one of the safer capitals in Africa. The city sits both on the Indian Ocean and at the confluence of the three rivers. The primary language is Portuguese and many young Mozambicians speak English.

In Maputo, inside many of the older structures Mozambicians have built cafes and restaurants with great Mozambician food, one of the world’s original cuisines. Because Mozambique wasn’t influenced only by Portugal but also by Arab trades and migrants from Portugal’s Asian and Latin colonies, Mozambique’s cosmopolitan cuisine mixed Brazilian spices, local seafood and tropical fruits.

The ideal time to visit Mozambique is May through October, the cooler, drier season. January through April is hot and rainy, which also can be a fine time to visit, as long as you’re prepared for occasional wet spells. October through January is brutally hot and uncomfortable.

From New York, the fare to Maputo, on a code-share flight between American Airlines and South African Airways, with stops in London and Johannesburg, would cost roughly $1,835, based on a prices being quoted for a 21-day advance-purchase ticket in mid-May.