PART 3. BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO NATIONAL PARK (BANP)
General description
The BANP was the first MPA in Mozambique. Proclaimed in 1971, initially it only included the 3 southern islands (Benguerua, Magaruque and Bangue). In 2002, it was extended to include Bazaruto and Santa Carolina islands increasing its total area to 1,430 km2. The park was initially established to protect species of especial concern such as the the rare and threatened dugong and marine turtles. From the ecological point of view it's an interesting converging point with all 5 species of Indian ocean marine turtles nesting there, whales, dolphins and possibly the last viable population (in the Indian ocean) of the dugong. Extensive tidal flats, seagrass beds, coral reefs, drop-offs and offshore canyons contribute to the amazing productivity of the area.
Location and limits
The BANP is located in the northern part of Inhambane Province and administratively it is part of 2 districts: Inhassoro and Vilankulos. The following points constitute the limits of the park (please see also the map below):
A: 21o 27' 30'' S; 35o 32' 30'' E
B: 21o 27' 30'' S; 35o 19' 01'' E
C: 21o 42' 47'' S; 35o 19' 01'' E
D: 22o 02' 55'' S; 35o 24' 01'' E
E: 22o 02' 55'' S; 35o 32' 30'' E
Getting there
The easiest way to get there is to fly from Maputo/JHB to Vilankulos. Then a transfer (flying/boat) can be arranged to the archipelago. Several flights a week are available to Vilankulos. One can also drive there via the N1. Vilankulos is about 700 km from Maputo.
Logistics
Most resorts in the archipelago are 4-5 star which probably puts the average angler out of the equation. These offer all commodities and luxuries including decent tackle, boats and guides! Apart from the hotels, no other facilities exist on the islands except the Park headquarters in Sitone (Bazaruto) and outposts in Zenguelemo, Ponta Dundo (Bazaruto) and Benguerrua. There are the typical barracas around the main resorts. NO medical care facilities available.
Fishing
Bazaruto is a world renowned bill fish destination. Black marlin and sailfish are abundant and provide excellent fishing from close distance. Several 1000 Lb specimens have been caught recently. Bazaruto holds the All African record for black marlin! Apart from the bill fish other facets are also contemplated. General gamefish (trolling, drifting and jigging) is excellent and saltwater flyfishing is very productive in the shallows and even in the open sea! At least 45 fish species relevant for sport & recreational fishing have been identified, so there's a bit please every taste! R&S is not as developed (mainly due to the distances that need to be covered), but the open shores offer a variety of shark species that would certainly please the most demanding angler! Unfortunately kayak fishing is impractical due to the fact that carrying these long vessels in the airplane does impose a few logistical problems!
Rules and Regulations
The BANP management plan is the guiding document for the management of the area. There are certain restricted areas (coral reefs) and ALL fish caught by the sport/recreation sector should be released! An entry fee to the park (U$15.00) should be payed to the hotels (which will later revert to the park) and fishing licenses should also be acquired. Jetskis are not allowed in the BANP.
