The former Portuguese colony of Mozambique is slowly regaining status as a tourist destination after years of civil war that left much of the country closed to tourists. Though much of the interior is still to be declared safe for tourists, it has always been the Mozambican coast to which tourist have been drawn. It is the warm waters of the Indian ocean and long white sandy beaches for which Mozambique is justly famous.

The best place to experience the splendour of the Indian Ocean is the Bazaruto Archipelago made up of three main islands, Bazaruto, Margarque and Benguerra. The archipelago can be reached from the small mainland town of Vilanculos.

Bazaruto the largest of the islands has forests of cashew trees and coconut palms as well as inland lakes. A large selection of high quality hotels makes Bazaruto the perfect place from which to explore the other islands.

Two Mile Reef off Benguerra Island offers the best diving and snorkelling in Mozambique with an incredible variety of fish, crustaceans and coral. The Dugong (sea-cow), which is an extremely rare mammal, is to be found in the waters of the archipelago, as are dolphins and turtles.

For those who prefer to spend their time above water, windsurfing, kayaking and water-skiing are also available. When you become a little waterlogged, explore the island dunes and forests by horse or 4x4.

The triangular shaped sail of a traditional dhow remains a common sight in Mozambique where it is still used as a major form of transportation. Allow the romance of a bygone time to envelope you as you experience a unique sunset cruise.

Of course the best thing to do on the islands is well, nothing. Relax beside the warm tranquil waters as the African sun makes all your troubles fade away.