[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_heading title=”Vilanculos (Vilankulo)” admin_label=”Heading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n
“Oh do you live in Vilanculos? I would LOVE to visit there- so stunning, so beautiful!” said the 90-year-old mother of a Dutch friend I met here in Mozambique, who visits her son every year. \u201cI once saw a picture of that magnificent bay in a brochure and had never seen anything so wonderful.\u201d It is true, I replied, in the pictures it looks beautiful and it truly is beautiful.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Fresh-fish-being-sold-in-Vilanculos-Mozambique.jpg” alt=”Discover Unique Mozambique with me, unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique” title_text=”Fresh fish being sold in Vilanculos Mozambique” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Gateway to the idyllic Bazaruto Archipelago” admin_label=”Heading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Aerial-view-Benguerra-Island-Mozambique-credit-Beyond.webp” alt=”Aerial view of Benguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago Mozambique (credit &Beyond)” title_text=”Aerial view Benguerra Island Mozambique (credit &Beyond)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Vilanculos – a formerly quiet fishing town, now one of Mozambique’s tourist hotspots<\/strong>. Officially Vilankulo, named after the local chief Gamela Vilankulo Mukoke, a well-known family name in this area.<\/p>\n Vilanculos is best known as the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago<\/strong><\/a>, which was granted protected area status back in 1971, making it the first and oldest marine national park in Mozambique- because of its exceptionally beautiful underwater world. Whale sharks<\/strong><\/a>, manta rays, thousands of fish species, whales<\/strong><\/a>, dolphins, nesting sea turtles and the last remaining viable population of dugongs<\/strong><\/a> set in tranquil, turquoise seas, surrounded by powder-white beaches made the Archipelago a highly desirable and\u00a0 top tourist attraction in southern Africa<\/strong>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Divers paradise – Scubadiving and Snorkeling” admin_label=”Heading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n The archipelago is a diver\u2019s and snorkeler’s paradise<\/strong> and watching the humpback whales in season a fantastic experience.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Manta-Rays-Mozambique-Bazaruto-Archipelago.webp” alt=”Best places to visit in Mozambique Unique Mozambique Africa Bazaruto Archipelago” title_text=”Manta Rays Mozambique Bazaruto Archipelago” url=”https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Manta_ray” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Exclusive Boutique hotels & top class service” admin_label=”Heading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n On the island of the archipelago you will find exclusive lodging<\/strong>, ranging from the more family-friendly and larger Anantara Resort<\/strong><\/a> to the luxurious &Beyond Benguerra<\/strong><\/a> and even more luxurious and exclusive\u00a0 Kisawa Sanctuary<\/strong><\/a>, for top class service and exclusivity.<\/span><\/p>\n In 2023, Zenguelemo Lodge<\/strong><\/a> opened, a luxury eco glamping<\/strong> in partnership with the local community, providing a unique opportunity to stay in the middle of the archipelago at an affordable price.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/andBeyond-Benguerra-Island-1.webp” alt=”Discover Unique Mozambique with me, unique experiences personalized travel & wellbeing retreats in Mozambique (photo credit &Beyond)” title_text=”andBeyond Benguerra Island” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Authentic life in Vilanculos” admin_label=”Heading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Helicopter-transfer-Bazaruto-Archipelago-photo-credit-Beyond-1.webp” alt=”Discover Unique Mozambique with me, unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique (photo credit &Beyond)” title_text=”Helicopter transfer Bazaruto Archipelago photo credit &Beyond” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span>Below the helicopters<\/strong> flying over, transporting guests from the small international airport in Vilanculos to the luxury lodges on the islands, life in Vilanculos continues unruffled and unchanged, as it has for centuries. <\/span>At the end of the day, the dhows<\/strong><\/a> (traditional Arab sailing vessel with one or more masts) come sailing into Vilanculos bay with their catch of the day or night; where the women await them to sell the fresh fis in the evening market. <\/span><\/p>\n This is a special sight you don’t see in so many places in the world anymore. I keep finding it, ever since we have been here, extraordinary and special how this authentic local life mixes<\/strong> with the (still small-scale) tourism<\/strong>. Tourists (or ourselves) enjoying a cold beer in the beach bar with in front of it on the beach the fishermen busily and precisely repairing their nets a<\/span>nd the fishermen are only too happy if you buy a fresh fish or lobster from them.<\/span><\/p>\n The local Mozambicans remain friendly as ever and are always as happy and cheerful. At low tide in the afternoon the beach is bustling with activity with youngsters playing soccer with the few materials they have.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Local-fishermen-selling-fish-at-our-house-Vilanculos-Mozambique.webp” alt=”Discover Unique Mozambique with me, unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique Vilanculos” title_text=”Local fishermen selling fish at our house Vilanculos Mozambique” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Growth of Vilanculos (Vilankulo)” admin_label=”Heading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n In recent years Vilanculos<\/strong> has experienced considerable growth<\/strong>, new roads have been built (we ourselves still live on a dirt road) and in record time almost the entire town was provided with electricity (with all its advantages and disadvantages because Mozambicans love loud music. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Santorini-Boutique-Hotel-in-Vilanculos-Mozambique.webp” alt=”Boutique Hotels of the world – Santorini in Vilanculos Mozambique Africa” title_text=”Santorini Boutique Hotel in Vilanculos Mozambique” url=”https:\/\/santorinimozambique.com\/” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Many accommodations were added, from backpackers and mid-range lodges to luxury 5 star hotels like the beautiful Santorini hotel<\/strong><\/a>. So in terms of accommodation choice there is something on offer for everyone\u2019s style and budget, though on average prices are a lot higher than in South Africa, for example. This is mainly due to the small scale nature of the industry, the fact that in Mozambique almost everything is imported with 100% import tariffs, and seasonality. <\/span><\/p>\n Vilanculos is also a lot further north from the capital Maputo than, say, Tofo (about 11 hours on a fairly poor highway) resulting in higher transport prices and far fewer (self-drive) travelers than in southern Mozambique and places like Ponto d\u2019Ouro<\/strong><\/a>, Bilene and Tofo.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_heading title=”Relaxation and wellness in Vilanculos” admin_label=”Heading” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-24px||23px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n As mentioned above, Vilanculos became known primarily as the gateway to the idyllic Bazaruto Archipelago. However, its white beaches overlooking the shimmering bay with magnificent views on the islands of the Archipelago, wide choice of accommodations, authentic local life and laid-back atmosphere make Vilanculos a wonderful vacation spot to\u00a0 rest and relax<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Relaxen-in-Vilanculos-Mozambique.webp” alt=”Vilanculos in Mozambique is a very relaxing place by the Indian Ocean” title_text=”Relaxen in Vilanculos Mozambique” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”What to do in Vilanculos?” admin_label=”What to do in Vilanculos” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|–et_global_heading_font_weight|||||||” title_text_color=”#FF6B5A” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-24px||23px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n If you want to be more active, there are plenty of things to do in Vilanculos<\/strong>.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Visit the archeological site in Chibuene- one of the oldest trading places n the east coast” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Giant-Baobab-trees-in-Chibuene-Vilanculos-Mozambique.webp” alt=”What to do in Vilanculos Mozambique? Visit the archaeological site in Chibuene with its giant Baoabab Trees!” title_text=”Giant Baobab trees in Chibuene Vilanculos Mozambique” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n The archeological site at Chibuene, my favourite area of Vilanculos, about 10km out of town. Chibuene is one of the oldest trading places on the coast of East Africa. <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n The local restaurant by the old Baobab is entirely run by the local community. Here, you can take a lovely tour with a guide to see the giant Baobab trees here, to learn more about the history of this area and the local culture and customs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Canoeing the Govuro Wetlands” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Canoeing in the Govuro wetlands<\/strong><\/a> is one of my favourites. Paddling slowly through the Govuro river – an area abundant of birdlife – is a very relaxing experience. After sunset you will be seeing hundreds of fireflies!<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Canoe-safari-in-the-Govuro-wetlands-Vilanculos-Mozambique.webp” title_text=”Canoe safari in the Govuro wetlands Vilanculos Mozambique” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Discover Mindfulness Meditation in Vilanculos” url=”https:\/\/mindwise.me\/experience-mindfulness-in-vilanculos\/” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n While visiting Mozambique, take the opportunity to learn about mindfulness and mindfulness skills. Book a private session with Gerry, either at your accommodation or in the middle of the Indian Ocean!<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Gerry-meditation-on-beach-Vilanculos.webp” alt=”Solo or duo wellbeing meditation retreat Africa Mozambique” title_text=”Gerry meditation on beach Vilanculos” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Ecotourism – A seahorse safari by local dhow” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n This is a very inspiring community project. This sea horse safari by traditional dhow <\/strong>is run by the local NGO ParCo<\/strong><\/a> who collect and recycle plastic rubbish. They do Extremely valuable work!<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Save-the-seahorse-Ecotourism-in-Vilancuos-Mozambique.webp” alt=”Save the seahorse local ecotourism project Mozambique” title_text=”Save the seahorse Ecotourism in Vilancuos Mozambique” url=”https:\/\/aparco.org\/” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Local village tour by Tuk Tuk” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n A local village tour by ‘Tuk Tuk’ (locally called ‘chopela<\/em>‘ is a great way to learn about Vilanculos<\/strong>, its history, culture and food. If you’re interested in cooking and food, join into a local matapa making or cooking workshop, so much fun!<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Take-a-local-Tuk-Tuk-tour-in-Vilanculos.webp” alt=”What to do in Vilanculos Mozambique? Take a local Tuk Tuk tour” title_text=”Take a local Tuk Tuk tour in Vilanculos” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”A bird watching & nature walk” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n A birding\/walking tour with my friend Crispen is lovely. He is very knowledgeable about birds and you will be surprised about the hidden spots and beautiful birds here! He also does tours to the Red Dunes, always a great place to watch the sunset and end your day in beautiful Africa.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ alt=”Bulbul birds in Mozambique (photo Jonathan Retzlaff) did you know they love chili peppers?!!” title_text=”Bulbul birds Mozambique (photo Jonathan Retzlaff)” src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Bulbul-birds-Mozambique-photo-Jonathan-Retzlaff.webp”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=”Horseriding and Kitesurfing” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h4″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Horseriding in the ocean or on the beach with Mozambique Horse Safari<\/strong><\/a> is very special or go\u00a0 kitesurfing in the bay<\/strong><\/a>. The choice is yours!<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ alt=”Discover Unique Mozambique with me, unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique” title_text=”horseriding beach Vilanculos Mozambique” src=”https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/horseriding-beach-Vilanculos-Mozambique-1.webp”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" “Oh do you live in Vilanculos? I would LOVE to visit there- so stunning, so beautiful!” said the 90-year-old mother of a Dutch friend I met here in Mozambique, who visits her son every year. \u201cI once saw a picture of that magnificent bay…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4066,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[27],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3387","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3387","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3387"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3387\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4066"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3387"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3387"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/uniquemozambique.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3387"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}