Mozambique: where the sun and sea sizzles

NEIGHBOURING SOUTH AFRICA, MOZAMBIQUE IS AN EXOTIC PARADISE. FROM ITS WHITE SANDY BEACHES, NATURAL BEAUTY, CULTURAL HERITAGE AND VIBEY NIGHTLIFE TO THE INCREDIBLE CHARM AND HOSPITALITY OF ITS PEOPLE, ‘MOZ’ DEFINITELY MAKES AN IMPRESSION!

Life’s a beach

Approximately 2 500km of white, palm-fringed beaches, and the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago, and of the Quirimbas National Park, recently declared by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve in particular, have long been the major draw for tourists. The extensive coral reefs host a dazzling array of unique marine life and offer unbelievable diving and fishing opportunities.

One of the finest diving destinations in the world, with remarkably unspoilt coral reefs and an abundant variety of marine life, diving is on offer all year round. Sea temperatures vary between 30°C in summer to 21°C in winter and the structure of the reefs offer pinnacles, overhangs, coral arches and much more.

Reef depths vary from 10m to 40m and offer good visibility and fantastic photo opportunities. There is also an impressive diversity of 6 000 fish species. It’s also not unheard of to encounter dolphins and turtles – leatherback, loggerhead and green turtles. Humpback whales can be sighted between August and October.

One of the finest diving destinations in the world, with remarkably unspoilt coral reefs and an abundant variety of marine life, diving is on offer all year round.

Beaches to kick back at

Tofo Beach: Laid back vibes on white sands and crystalclear waters. A great spot for surfing, diving and snorkeling in addition to boasting a vibrant nightlife.

Londo Beach: Located in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, this is a popular beach for snorkeling, diving, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Vilanculos Beach: Turquoise waters and powder-like sand dominate the scenery with plenty of water sports on offer such as kayaking, kiteboarding and sailing.

Santa Maria Beach: A veritable treasure trove of abundant marine life this is the place to be for snorkeling and diving.

Discover

Flourishing flora and fauna

But Moz serves up more than beach beauty – the breathtaking conservation areas are teeming with flourishing flora and fauna.

Adventure tourism is a big hit in the central and northern on mountainous areas, rivers and waterfalls. Conservation areas such as parks, reserves and game reserves are a draw for lovers of adventure tourism.

A unique combination of beach and safari in less than 20 minutes offers visitors unforgettable memories. An example of this is in the southern province of Maputo where visitors can view wild animals such as elephants and giraffes, and at the same time experience diving and observe coral reefs.

This is possible in Mozambique’s conservation areas, such as Gorongosa National Park in central Mozambique, Niassa National Park in the north, Maputo National Park in the south, and places like Massingir, Sabie, Chimanimani and others.

Fishing is a popular pastime in almost all the national territory from south to north. Hunting sport can be undertaken in the conservation area, among parks and reserves.

Visitors can also go birdwatching as there are lots of birds in the vicinity, and according to bird enthusiasts, one can spot rare birds which are endemic to Mozambique.

Spectacular luxury accommodation, on the secluded, private coast of Machangulo, Mozambique. The Monarch villa provides guests with the ultimate restorative escape, and the highest calibre of intuitive hospitality, while committing to being carbon conscious through Fire Island Eco Retreats.

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A cultural excursion

One can find beautiful dunes with well-beaten paths that lead into surrounding villages, where any tourist can interact with the community and learn more about their culture. This offers the visitor a unique perspective of Mozambique and into the lives of the local communities.

Mozambique is a cultural mosaic influenced by the miscellaneous African Arab, Portuguese, and Indian heritage. The food is flavourful and dishes such as the chicken piri-piri and prawns are recognised globally. The music and dance scene is characterised with rhythms of traditional instruments specific for each region.

A home away from home

Mozambique offers a range of basic campsites to luxurious hotels and can cater to your every need and budget. Warm and friendly hospitality is a given whether you are staying in a hotel, lodge, guesthouse, resort or wilderness camp. Depending on what you are seeking, there is everything from business-smart to luxurious and ecologically minded to unequivocally unique.

Coral Lodge, Nuarro Lodge, and Dimonds Mequfi in northern Mozambique; and Kisawa, Benguerra in southern Mozambique are some of the examples of investments in the community. Some have won world-class awards and are evidence of improvements in accessibility, health care, and education, amongst others. They are also examples of unique, modern and inclusive tourism investment that bring about good relationships with the communities.

Mozambique is also experiencing a rapid growth of business and leisure hotels in the main urban centres, and the construction of new conference facilities that makes it a destination for both business and pleasure.

Unforgettable experiences

Ilha de Mozambique

A historical gem, Ilha de Mozambique is a cultural heritage island site. A small island of about 3km long, it is linked the mainland by a bridge built in the 1960s. The coastline is a must see in addition to various historical sites such as forts, cathedrals and mansions that speak to its colonisation history.

Lake Niassa & Niassa Reserve

Lake Niassa or Lake Malawi spans Mozambique’s borders with Tanzania and Malawi. It is reported to be the 9th largest lake globally.

The Niassa Reserve is the largest conservation reserve in Mozambique. On safari, lion, leopard and hyenas can be spotted. In addition to the usual safari offered, there are also boat safaris and canoeing.

Tunduru Botanical Gardens

Located in Maputo, this botanical garden is a great way to learn about tree species.

Bazaruto National Park

The Bazaruto Archipelago is the perfect idyllic island escape. There are a handful of resorts spread out over a few islands that makes for a tranquil and stunning stay. This is a top spot for divers and snorkelers with an array of corals, manta rays and whale sharks to be seen.

Guided Tours in Maputo

Check out local operators for guided tours that journey through the downtown area and historical sites highlighting the rich heritage of Mozambique.