The Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary
The Nature Reserve in Mozambique where you find Nyati Beach Lodge
Paradise-like beaches, sun and sea are by no means all that the Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary in Mozambique has to offer. The 25,000 hectare reserve is one of a kind being the first in the world to encompass 7 of the 11 natural habitats as identified by the World Bank and the conservation project itself is setting new standards for sustainable tourism in Africa. Nyati Beach Lodge is one of the few private lodges located within the Sanctuary.
Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary
The breathtaking Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary is situated along the Indian Ocean coast in the Inhambane province of Mozambique. It forms the southernmost portion of the spectacular San Sabastião Peninsula - the Bazaruto Archipelago. In October 2000 the Council of Ministers in Mozambique authorized this area of 25,000 hectares of land and sea to be developed for the establishment of an eco-tourism project with low density tourism facilities for commercial and private use. Also involved is the management of a fully protected area for the conservation of all indigenous species, marine flora and fauna. The third major objective includes the improvement of the social and economic standards of the local community around Vilanculos.
Sustainable Tourism in Vilanculos, Mozambique
The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) is helping to finance this $10 million coastal and wildlife eco-tourism project. Backed by the Global Environmental Facility, the International Finance Corporation, and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, the Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary is following world standards with regard to social and environmental issues. The conservation project will provide economic development in the Vilanculos region of Mozambique from tourism and job creation, to community development, including a health centre, school, and housing.
The wildlife, flora and fauna of the Vilanculos National Park
A mosaic of wetlands makes up the major part of the Vilanculos reserve. Salt marshes, mangrove swamps, tidal mudflats, Miombo woodlands, freshwater lakes and a vast river estuary are perfect conditions for a rich bird life. More than 180 species have been identified including flamingos, pelicans and even endangered species such as mangrove kingfishers and saddle-billed stalks. The surrounding Bazaruto Archipelago and reef host an outstanding and diverse marine life with over 400 species of fishes, including the elusive sea horses, nesting turtles, giant manta rays, dolphins, the last surviving populations of the enigmatic dugong and whales offshore. Excursions into this untouched wilderness, on foot or by water, are just some of guest-activities of Nyati Beach Lodge as a part of the Vilanculos Coastal Wildlife Sanctuary. Click here to read more about the Bazaruto Archipelago and the wildlife of Mozambique.
Vilanculos and the community
Life in the tiny communities of the Vilanculos region has not changed for centuries. The fishermen still haul their nets at the water's edge, while the fanners grow cashews near their thatched-roof villages. The local population has been involved in the preservation and development plans for the area. They deliver vegetables, fruit and freshly-caught fish to the reserve's lodges. A visit to the small fishing village, the agricultural project and/or the nearby market town of Vilanculos provides a glimpse into the daily lives of these people. Memories of the country's colorful historic past are brought to mind as the fishermen pole their dhows out onto the sea to catch the trade wind. Once they transported slaves and ivory to the East - today they provide the perfect setting for romantic sunset trips and excursions to the surrounding islands.
The City of Vilanculos, Mozambique's best kept secret
The city of Vilanculos (Vilankulo), located around 600 kilometers North of Maputo, is Mozambique's best kept secret for travelers wishing to venture into paradise. Vilanculos is a bustling village with an active fresh produce market and several small shops selling various supplies and a number of small quaint restaurants serving up the finest sea food. Many would argue that you haven't really experienced Mozambique until you've stayed in Vilanculos, cut off from the chaos of life, and woken to watch the sun rise over its calm crystal clear waters or spent the day soaking up the sun. Vilanculos is often spelled in a variety of ways including Vilanculo, Vilancoulos, Vilankulos, Vilankulo and Vilankoulo.
