STATION &
BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO NATIONAL PARK
The first Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Mozambique
BCSS faces the Indian Ocean through the Bazaruto to Benguerra island channel, which provides direct access to open ocean waters. The facility sits in the heart of the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, and is surrounded by various ecosystems, including mangrove forests, mudflats, seagrass habitat and coral reefs.
5
islands
300+
dugongs
2000+
fish species
THE BCSS RESEARCH STATION
A field marine station situated on the shore of Benguerra Island
BCSS is an innovative platform hosting the first permanent ocean observatory focused on multi-ecosystem time series research in Africa.
We aim to use our strategic location and data to support environmental management at a local level, facilitate regional collaboration, and contribute to international scientific programs
14 km
boat ride
5
food gardens
36
solar panels
ACCOMMODATION
Sustainable, solar-powered lodgings made exclusively from local materials
BCSS can accommodate up to 12 visitors on site and provides a choice of single and double (bunks) rooms. The accommodation complex features communal bathroom facilities, shared with the tented camp located near the station. The staff camp is within 30 meters of the main accommodation unit and includes two large tents.
4
Wi-Fi hotspots
5
tents
8
rooms
LABORATORIES
A fully equipped research laboratory
- • Plankton nets
- • Multi probes
- • Microscopes
- • Sensors
- • Hi-tech ovens
- • Machinery
- • Fridges
- • Freezers
BCSS encourages visiting scientists to bring their own equipment, where possible. A wet laboratory where samples can be prepared and stored for longer periods is also available. BCSS maintains exclusive agreements with logistic carriers and analytical labs worldwide to facilitate further sample testing from the archipelago. This service is available to visiting researchers with prior notice.
2
ovens
8
fridges
18
ocean landers
5* PADI DIVE CENTER
A diving center serving scientific research
The dive center primarily supports researchers conducting field projects, carrying out surveys, filming documentaries or location scouting, but also provides dive training and courses through research expeditions. All visitors wishing to dive at BCSS need to provide existing diving qualifications and paperwork.
The BCSS dive center has equipment available for rent and to be used in our programs, but we recommend that you bring your own wetsuit, fins, mask, and any additional gear for your comfort and to ensure equipment availability for all diving opportunities.
9
courses
13+
dive sites
122
shark & ray species
BOATS & VEHICLES
All the necessary infrastructure you might need, in one place
Beyond the buildings and infrastructure, BCSS operates two boats (a 9m GeCa and an 8m RIB) for diving and research, and a 4×4 Hilux for transport. BCSS maintains strong working relationships with other partners on Benguerra Island, so extra boats, vehicles and helicopters can be arranged prior to arrival.
1
research boat
1
diving boat
1
vehicle 4×4
