Spanning 1,430 km² of pristine seascapes and five islands off the coast of Mozambique, the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is a sanctuary of exceptional ecological and cultural significance. Managed in partnership by African Parks and the Mozambican government since 2017, the park is home to iconic wildlife like dolphins, manta rays, nesting turtles, and the last viable dugong population on East Africa’s coast.
However, Bazaruto’s ecosystems face significant threats from overfishing, marine pollution, and habitat degradation. Through collaboration with local communities, the park is now a testament to the power of conservation, where people and wildlife thrive together.
This collection was created in collaboration with African Parks and their dedicated team working in Bazaruto Archipelago National Park.
Conservation Highlights
Protecting Marine Wildlife
Bazaruto is critical for East Africa’s dugong population, which is now listed as Critically Endangered thanks to African Parks’ research. Regular patrols and law enforcement have dramatically reduced illegal fishing activities, safeguarding turtles and dugongs from harm.
Supporting Communities
Nearly 1,000 scholarships have been awarded to local schoolchildren since 2017, and a new community training center fosters skill development. Conservation agriculture and tourism initiatives are creating sustainable livelihoods while reducing pressure on natural resources.
Restoring Ecosystems
Efforts to monitor and protect sensitive habitats, like seagrass meadows and reefs, are helping preserve vital ecosystems for future generations.
A Conservation-Led Economy
Bazaruto is becoming a global model for sustainable tourism and biodiversity protection. In 2023, the park generated $579,835 in revenue, 16% of which directly supported island communities. Rigorous compliance ensures tourism activities respect the park’s ecological integrity, while new opportunities for eco-tourism contribute to job creation and local development.
Building a Future Together
Through dedicated research, infrastructure development, and community engagement, African Parks continues to strengthen Bazaruto’s future. From deploying satellite tags on turtles to educating local youth and training conservation rangers, the focus remains on inclusive development.
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Be a Part of the Story
Gallery
In May 2022, photographer Adam Rabinowitz partnered with African Parks to document the beauty of this marine sanctuary and its ongoing transformation. These images capture the delicate balance between humanity and nature, telling the story of a place where conservation is creating a future for both wildlife and people.
