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How to explore Bazaruto on a Dhow Safari

Exploring Bazaruto on a Dhow Safari

By Rochell MeganPublished 4 years ago 3 min read
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Before all the big ships came about into the world. The countries on the Indian Ocean used a unique little boat called the Dhow. The experience the Dhow safari offers might not be that of a luxury cruise liner, rather, the simplicity of it is what draws the attention of many travellers to Mozambique. Here's what you'll be able to experience and explore.

What is a Dhow?

To start with, if you are not too sure of what a Dhow is exactly, let's investigate. The Dhow used to be a form of transport for the Arabs originally. The hull is sewn together by fibres, cords or thongs. The boat can sail across the waters because of its lateen sails. It is one of the most basic modes of transport that came into being in years as early as 600 AD. The locals have been travelling from island to island using the Dhow for hundreds of years until the Portuguese arrived in the 15th century and introduced ships.

The experience

You'll start from the mainland on a Dhow you'll find surprisingly well equipped for the ride being a basic means of transport and all. The boat is sure to have a canvas shed to keep you in the shade throughout your journey. Cooking equipment is also on board, the crew will be seeing to your meals on the entire excursion. Just simple island food on a simple island trip! Sounds nice and relaxing now, doesn't it? Since there are no motors on this boat to propel it through the waters of the ocean, the Dhow safari is very slow-paced and perfect for those seeking a relaxing experience away from civilization altogether.

On your trip, you will be visiting abandoned islands within the archipelago just waiting to be explored. Nature on these islands are untouched therefore offer an authentic experience. Most of the beaches on these islands offer shallow waters with reefs nearby making it ideal for snorkelling. If you are lucky enough, you might even come across a dugong visiting the warm waters. However, they are ever so rare these days.

Meals and drinks will be prepared at each stop, you'll truly feel as though you are living in one of those adventure movies. Taste the local tropical fruits and savoury dishes which are absolutely yum!

Accommodation

If you are wondering where you will be staying on all your adventures, why it's on the Dhow of course! you'll simply lay down and fall asleep as the ocean gently rocks you with its waves into dreamland. On some days you will be camping out on an abandoned island perhaps with the typical canvas tents under the shade of the trees. Some safaris may even take you to Mozambique holiday resorts on a day or two for the night.

If you are unable to be at sea for your entire holiday, hotels like Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort offer sunset Dhow excursions which are wonderfully romantic.

When to go

The weather is an important element to consider when it comes to embarking on a journey at sea. The best time to take your Dhow safari would be from April to December when the weather is at its best. The rainy season is from January to March and during this period, there is a possibility of cyclones, not to mention, the sea is rough as well. So, it's advisable not to travel during these months.

Things to bring

You'll need to bring your sunblock along as some days can get really hot. Since the Dhow is an open boat, you will be exposed to sun and rain too. Bring water shoes as you will be walking on rocky parts of the beach. Keep a dry bag with you for all your equipment, a torch would be a very handy piece of equipment to carry with you. Bring medicine for seasickness just in case.

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About the Creator

Rochell Megan

writer who loves to travel the world

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