Vilanculos: The Gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago

• HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeTchau
  [chow]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoNão
  [now]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor
  [pohr fah-vohr]
• Thank youObrigado
  [oh-bree-gah-doh]
• Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpe
  [kohm lee-sen-sah/dehs-kool-peh]
• How are you?Como está?
  [koh-moh ehs-tah]
• Fine. And you?Bem. E você?
  [behn. eh voh-seh]
• Do you speak English?Fala inglês?
  [fah-lah een-glehs]
• I don't understandNão entendo
  [now ehn-tehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGostaria de ver o menu, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh vehr oh meh-noo, poor fah-vohr]
• I don't eat meatNão como carne
  [now koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Saúde!
  [sow-deh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGostaria de pagar, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh pah-gahr, poor fah-vohr]

• Help!Socorro!
  [soh-koh-roh]
• Go away!Vai embora!
  [vah-ee ehm-boh-rah]
• Call the Police!Chama a Polícia!
  [sha-mah ah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Chama um médico!
  [sha-mah oom meh-dee-koo]
• I'm lostEstou perdido
  [eh-stoh pehr-dee-doo]
• I'm illEstou doente
  [eh-stoh doo-een-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Gostaria de comprar...
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingEstou só a ver
  [eh-stoh soh ah vehr]
• How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [kwan-toh koos-tah]
• That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [ee-soh eh mwee-toh kah-roo]
• Can you lower the price?Pode baixar o preço?
  [poh-deh by-shahr oh preh-soh]

• What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahz sah-oh]
• It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh oo-mah oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Meio dia e meia
  [meh-oh dee-ah eh may-ah]
• MorningManhã
  [mah-nyah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoite
  [noy-teh]
• YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-tehm]
• TodayHoje
  [oh-zheh]
• TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mah-nyah]
• 1Um
  [oom]
• 2Dois
  [doh-is]
• 3Três
  [trehs]
• 4Quatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [saysh]
• 7Sete
  [seh-teh]
• 8Oito
  [oy-toh]
• 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
• 10Dez
  [dehz]

• Where's a/the...?Onde está o/um...?
  [ohn-deh eh-stah oh/oohm]
• What's the address?Qual é o endereço?
  [kahl eh oo ehn-deh-reh-soh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pode mostrar-me (no mapa)?
  [poh-deh moh-strahr-meh (noo mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (autocarro)?
  [kwan-doh eh oo proh-ksih-moh (ow-toh-kah-roo)]
• A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom beel-yeh-teh (pah-rah)]

Vilanculos, originally known as Vilankulo, is believed to have been settled by indigenous tribes long before the arrival of Portuguese explorers. The region's fertile lands and strategic coastal location made it an ideal settlement area for fishing and agriculture.

The Portuguese began their colonial presence in Mozambique in the early 16th century. Vilanculos, with its proximity to the Indian Ocean, became a notable point for trade and maritime activities. The influence of Portuguese architecture and culture is still evident in the town's old buildings and local customs.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Vilanculos was part of the larger network involved in the East African slave trade. The town’s coastal location made it a transit point for slaves being transported to various destinations across the Indian Ocean.

Mozambique's struggle for independence from Portuguese rule began in the 1960s and culminated in 1975. Vilanculos played a role in this movement, with local resistance fighters contributing to the broader effort led by the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO).

After gaining independence, Vilanculos, like much of Mozambique, faced challenges including civil war and economic instability. However, the town gradually began to rebuild and is now known for its vibrant culture and growing tourism industry.

In recent decades, Vilanculos has emerged as a prime tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches and proximity to the Bazaruto Archipelago. Efforts have been made to develop sustainable tourism that benefits the local community and preserves the natural environment.

Vilanculos is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous African tribes, Portuguese colonizers, and Arab traders. The town is known for its traditional music, dance, and crafts, which are celebrated through various festivals and local markets.

Vilanculos is accessible via Vilankulo Airport (VNX), which has regular flights from Maputo, Johannesburg, and other regional hubs. From the airport, taxis and shuttle services are available to take you to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can drive to Vilanculos from Maputo, which is approximately a 10-hour journey by road. Buses and private transfers are also available for those preferring not to fly.

Within Vilanculos, the main forms of transportation are taxis and tuk-tuks, which are relatively inexpensive and convenient for short distances. For exploring the surrounding areas, consider renting a 4x4 vehicle, especially if you plan to visit remote beaches or the Bazaruto Archipelago. Bicycle rentals are also a popular option for getting around town and enjoying the scenic views.

The official currency in Mozambique is the Mozambican Metical (MZN). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Vilanculos, but ensure you inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

Vilanculos is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is essential to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly on secluded beaches or poorly lit areas. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious in crowded places. While crime rates are relatively low, petty theft can occur. Always use reputable transportation services and avoid displaying expensive items.

In case of emergency, dial 119 for medical emergencies or 112 for police assistance. The local hospital and clinics can provide medical care, but it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and it is recommended to carry a basic first-aid kit.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing attire, especially in rural or religious areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't haggle aggressively with taxi drivers; agree on a fare beforehand. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. Learning a few phrases in Portuguese or the local dialect can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and traditional dishes. Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled water instead.

To experience Vilanculos like a local, visit the municipal market where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with the local fishermen and perhaps arrange a fishing trip. Don't miss a visit to the Bazaruto Archipelago for snorkeling and diving. For a unique experience, attend a traditional dance performance or participate in a local festival to immerse yourself in the culture.