Swaying palms, white sands and sun-dappled turquoise water lure visitors to Mozambique’s long stretch of coast line
Various African, Arab and European influences have created an eclectic mix of architecture and an interesting culture – perhaps best witnessed on Ilha de Mozambique, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venture to the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos and you will discover unspoiled, peaceful islands with small, intimate hotels perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle. From here, you can dive and snorkel among fish-riddled reefs, explore tiny fishing villages or take a traditional dhow out on the pink-tinged ocean at sunset.
The sea here offers some of the richest coral reefs on the continent and contains abundant marine life, including humpback whale, marlin, dolphin, manta ray, five turtle species and one of world’s few viable populations of the endangered dugong, as well as tropical fish which can be easily spotted, should you choose to snorkel or dive.
In safari terms Mozambique is still recovering from years of civil conflict, but Gorongosa National Park in the central region is making real progress and already provides a wonderfully exclusive bush experience for the more seasoned traveller. It is a beautiful park with a wide variety of game and some excellent walking options. Elsewhere, a safari in Niassa Game Reserve, in the north, gives you a chance to see large herds of elephant alongside buffalo, zebra and wildebeest.
Mozambique is a large, under-developed country and if you’re looking for an exclusive natural paradise along the East Africa coast, it is likely to provide some awe-inspiring options.