Useful Information
LOCATION
Vamizi Island is located 100 kilometres south of the Tanzanian border, in the Quirimbas Archipelago. The island is approximately 12km long and 2km wide with its main axis lying east to west from 11°01’S 40°36’E to 11°00’S 40°43’E.
TIME ZONE
Owing to its location in the very far north of Mozambique, Vamizi has created its own time zone (GMT +3 hrs) – one hour ahead of the rest of Mozambique. This allows for more hours of daylight, especially in the southern hemisphere winter months (June to August).
WEATHER
For information on the weather please click here
VISAS
Please note that VISA’s must be obtained prior to travel to Mozambique
Please contact your local embassy for details on how to obtain your visa. The cost of a visa in 2015 is approximately USD 100, but is subject to change. If your itinerary requires you to stay in Tanzania, either overnight or for longer, you will require a Tanzanian visa.
• Single entry visa: This can be obtained on arrival and allows a stay in Tanzania for up to 30 days. Costs for most nationalities is USD $50 per person.
• Transit visas: Transit visas are required if you are going outside the airport for up to 24 hours. They are available on arrival. Cost for most nationalities is USD $30 per person. Please note that on return from Vamizi, transit visas are required for passengers connecting to late night international departures (KLM/Swissair).
• Multiple entry visa: This must be obtained prior to your arrival into Tanzania.
TRANSFERRING TO THE VAMIZI ISLAND FLIGHT
You will be met in Pemba or Dar es Salaam by our handlers who will assist you with your transit to your ongoing flight to Vamizi Island.
DIVING INFORMATION
Vamizi island is PADI Registered with expert instructors but we do recommend that you complete the ‘Theory and Skills’ section of the course ahead of travel, in order to maximise the diving opportunities whilst on the island.
COMMUNICATIONS ON VAMIZI ISLAND
There is free internet access in all private villas. Cell phone coverage is available for some networks. We would ask you that you use discretion when using your cell phone in public areas so as not to disturb the other guests.
INOCULATIONS AND MEDICAL CERTIFICATES
Guests must consult their GP or travel clinic prior to travel.
• Yellow fever – Yellow fever inoculation is required if entering Mozambique from Tanzania or any other infected country, and you will be required to carry a certificate.
• Malaria – although the island is very low risk, it is within a malarial area. It is advisable to discuss your malarial prevention with your GP. For further information, please consult the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office website: www.fco.gov.uk.
WHAT TO PACK
• Travel itinerary
• Valid return ticket
• Valid passport - with a minimum of 6 months’ validity
• Yellow fever inoculation certificate
• USD’s (2006 or newer) for tips and purchases in the island shop
CLOTHING
There is no formal dress code on Vamizi. We offer a daily laundry service.
• Lightweight cotton shirts/T-shirts
• Shorts, light trousers for men
• Shorts, light trousers, sundresses or skirts for women
• Long-sleeved shirts for fishermen/women
• Swimwear and sarongs
• Smart casual wear for evenings
• Light sweater for evenings (for non-summer months – May to September)
• Beach shoes/sandals
• Hat & sunglasses
• Strong sun block (this is not available in the island)
• Binoculars for birdwatchers
• Personal medical kit
• PADI scuba diving certificates, log book and medical certificates
DRINKING WATER
We provide bottled water to our guests as there is no fresh water on Vamizi.
ELECTRICAL SOCKETS
The Private Villas use South African round three-pin sockets.
MEDICAL CARE
There is a small medical clinic. Vamizi is able to offer emergency evacuation to guests with more serious needs.