The Best of Mozambique’s Safari and Islands

From the sleepy town of Vilanculos, take a helicopter flight to the Bazaruto Archipelago; undoubtedly the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean.’ This protected national park is blessed with a huge diversity of marine and terrestrial habitats. Imagine immaculate beaches, sand dunes, mangrove forests and busy coral reefs.

One of the five islands, Benguerra is a barefoot luxury with turquoise waters boasting colourful fish, playful dolphins and different turtle species. By horseback, ride along the island’s winding tracks before reaching its shoreline for a chance to swim with the horses. From your accommodation, go island hopping by speedboat, stopping off at the deserted Paradise Island to explore Hotel Santa Carolina’s ruins. Observe the magical underwater life by snorkelling or scuba diving and enjoy a picnic on the delightfully quiet beach. As Bazaruto offers some of the best big game, reef and bill fishing in the Indian Ocean, this exciting sport is a must! Encounter seagrass eating dugong with top conservationists and learn about the threats faced by these elusive creatures in Mozambique.

For the nature-enthusiasts and experienced travellers, Gorongosa National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting a variety of ecosystems. With new plant and animal species still being discovered and populations of elephant, lion and zebra recovering, the park’s ambitious restoration project is a conservation success. As well as traditional game drives, you will canoe along the Pungue River observing sandy beaches, riverside forest and fantastic birdlife. This is a peaceful experience with brilliant photographic opportunities. Join a relaxing boat safari to explore Lake Urema which is home to enormous crocodiles and a strong hippo population.

Journey to the far north of Mozambique to the isolated and remote Quirimbas Archipelago. Comprised of 12 main islands, these beautiful marine environments and white beaches remain largely unexplored. The archipelago’s historical highlight is Ibo Island, still preserved as it was centuries ago with few developments and a small population. An intriguing blend of Portuguese, Swahili, Indian and African cultures, this island has retained its heritage and local traditions. Uncover Ibo’s colonial history as you wander through old forts and ancient buildings, hearing tales of pirates and prisoners whilst interacting with the friendly locals. Onboard a dhow, cruise around the islands, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and grab the opportunity to sleep in mobile fly camps located on uninhabited islands, constructed just for you. Take a speedboat to search for wild dolphins before kitting up and joining them in the water in this breath-taking experience. Joined by an expert guide, try out the thrilling sport of spearfishing in one of the country’s top destinations.

A remote wildlife refuge and one of the largest protected areas in Africa, welcome to Niassa Game Reserve. Characterised by the striking granite Inselberg mountains, endless Miombo woodland, and vast floodplains, this reserve provides habitat for endangered species on a broad scale. Niassa’s remote location means visitors and vehicles are few, thus providing a more peaceful safari experience with rewarding wildlife encounters. Alongside expert guides, venture into the wilderness on foot as you silently track animals. In recent years, wildlife has recovered and the reserve now boasts significant African wild dog numbers, as well as, three endemic species. Canoe large sections of the Lugenda River, stopping on sandy banks for refreshing drinks and lunch. For a truly wild experience, climb an inselberg before enjoying dinner and the night ahead as you sleep under the stars with nothing but a comfortable bedroll and linen.