Vilanculos Located in Inhambane province, Vilanculos is a first destination for tourists and one of the main tourism entry points into Mozambique. Vilankulowas take its name from a historical local tribal chief, Ganiala Vilankulo Mukoke. During colonial times the name was changed to Vilanculos, as the Portuguese do not use the letter ‘k’ much, and commonly use the ‘sh’ sound of the s. When Mozambique became independent, the name was changed back to Vilankulo. Today the district is called Vilanculos and the town Vilankulo.

Vilanculos is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago – a group of 6 pristine, undeveloped islands, and is largest marine reserve in the Indian Ocean. With miles of unspoiled white beaches and fresh seafood available daily in abundance, Vilanculos offersthe perfect balance of rustic charm, seaside adventure, and beach tranquillity; ideal for the traveller looking for something special.

Vilanculos is approximately 740km north of Maputo, and is accessible by road and air. The newly upgraded international airport is situated just outside of the town, a short drive into the centre of town.

How to get there?

Airlink operates direct convenient flights from Johannesburg to Vilanculos every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with departures on Thursdays and Sunday departing from Nelspruit, Kruger direct to Vilanculos. There are daily return flights from Vilanculos to Johannesburg.

There are also regular flights on LAM from OR Tambo, Lanseria and Maputo. Visas are available on arrival (currently US$31 but note this is subject to frequent change). Airport taxes are charged at the airport, US Dollars, South African Rands and Meticals are accepted. Currently US$3 on arrival and US$ 30 on departure.

Just a short 2-hour flight from Johannesburg makes Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Archipelagos an accessible island destination for all travellers. Airlink flies more daily direct flights from Johannesburg to Vilanculos International Airport than any other airline.
For those traveling by public transport there are buses from Maputo (travel approximately 10 hours) or from Beira or Chimoio (change at Inchope). The roads are not always in the best conditions so that those who plan to arrive by public transport is better considering one or two days more than expected for any unexpected could happen (eg a bus failure, or cancellation of travel due to road cut or not filled bus etc. etc.).