The Bazaruto Archipelago is an area of unspoilt natural beauty, known for its richly varied ecology including large dunes, savannah, forested areas, inland lakes and wetlands. Its coral reefs are inhabited by more than 2000 species of fish, along with dolphins, and in the summer season (October - April), manta rays, humpback whales and whale sharks. The rare and elusive dugong can be seen in the area, along with five species of Indian Ocean turtles, which breed on the beach.

The six islands of Bazaruto are located close to the mainland, between Vilanculos and Inhassoro. Bazaruto Island is the largest at 12 000 hectares, followed by Benguerra at 5 500 hectares and Margaruque, Santa Carolina, Banque and Pansy Shell Island all coming in at 200 hectares or less.

Snorkelling in the Bazaruto Marine National Park is highly recommended, along with scuba diving, though the latter does tend to be quite expensive.