Vilankulo, Coastal municipality in Inhambane Province, Mozambique.
Vilanculos is a coastal municipality in Inhambane Province along Mozambique's Indian Ocean shore, featuring white sand beaches that stretch across the waterfront. The town serves as a gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago with its rich marine waters.
The settlement was named after tribal chief Gamela Vilankulo Mukoke, with different neighborhoods named after his sons to honor their influence. This naming practice reflects the family's historical importance to the town.
The local markets display fresh produce, traditional fabrics, and handcrafted items, while restaurants prepare seafood using recipes passed down through generations.
The international airport connects the town to Maputo and Johannesburg with daily flights, while the town center has banks, markets, and fuel stations. Visitors can find all necessary services here before exploring the islands.
Traditional wooden dhows transport visitors between the mainland and offshore islands, continuing a seafaring tradition that has lasted centuries in the region. These boats remain part of daily life and provide access to remote destinations.
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