Travel Idea

Island Hopping in Mozambique

Authentic. Rustic. Epic

overview

This unique operation has you set sail in a traditional dhow across Northern Mozambique's stunning coastline whilst staying on remote islands in mobile tented camps, as well as the charismatic Ibo Island Lodge.

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If you're after something different, authentic and like a trip back in time. This is it. We search and crave for this type of adventure.

Ben Nelson
Founder

A 5 night adventure with 3 nights at Ibo Island Lodge and 2 nights on remote islands!

First and foremost, enjoy a beautiful light aircraft flight over the islands and turquoise waters from Pemba International Airport to Ibo Island. Once on Ibo island, you will check-in at Ibo Island lodge, which has spectacular views over the waterfront and tidal bay. It is a historic colonial mansion with high ceilings have been stylishly renovated to accommodate with various verandas, tropical gardens and a spectacular rooftop restaurant. All beautifully simple yet elegant. Here you will have the chance to interact with the amazingly friendly local people and observe their unique island culture and heritage and a way of life that has not changed for hundreds of years. Wander around the mysterious ruins amongst forts and ancient trade buildings with many fascinating stories just waiting to be told.

Your dhow safari begins

After three nights here, your dhow safari begins. You will sail into the clearest of turquoise waters filled with pristine corals. You will enjoy a visit to the beautiful Ulumbwa river mouth where fascinating rural fishing villages dot the shore, followed by a sail up the Ulumbwa estuary viewing a variety of birds & mangroves that thrive in this area. After you return to your beautiful beach camp set up under the palms on the shores of Matemo Island with enough time to explore Matemo, take a walk or swim.

The next day you depart Matemo Island for your exploration south into the Quirimbas Archipelago! Once you reach Quirimba Island you will explore the island that gave the Archipelago its name with its rural villages, culture and old church. Overnight camp here and explore on the island and surrounds. Enjoy a day dhow trip to Quisiva Island or similar and/or Mefunvo Island from here before returning Ibo Island.

In bullet points
  • Guided mobile island hopping safari
  • Island hopping & explore tropical bliss
  • Snorkelling over untouched corals
  • Combine sea kayaking and dhow sailing
  • Red listed species and mangrove forests
  • 12 meter dhow with pro guide and crew
  • Eco mobile camps on islands and beaches
  • Fresh seafood and island cuisine
  • Private departures
Who for

It may be a fun venture for friends travelling together, a great family reunion in paradise, or a romantic honeymoon where tranquillity - having the islands to yourselves totally takes the experience to a whole new level!

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Want more? Add-on 4 Nights at Azura Quilalea

Start by helicopter transfer from Ibo Island to Azura Quilalea. Quilálea Island rests in a marine sanctuary, with turquoise seas and rich coral reefs surrounding it. The island is 34 hectares in size and lies alongside a deep channel with direct access to the Indian Ocean.

Azura Quilalea Private Island has been completely rebuilt. Here each room has a makuti thatched roof, with superb views to the sea and reefs from the private veranda. All have a king-size bed, mosquito nets, ceiling fans and have been stylishly and tastefully decorated. 

The dining area and lounge are situated to benefit from sunrise and sunset and overlook the sea. Menus are based on fresh fish and seafood prepared in the traditional Mozambican style, complemented with Portuguese wines. Alfresco lunches and dinners can be served on pristine beaches around the island, or in the new wine cellar.

What to do

If you ever tire of relaxing on Benguerra's beautiful white sand beach, there is a fully equipped Dive and Snorkel Centre, and the resident dive instructor will be happy to take you out diving or snorkelling among the coral reefs.

We would definitely recommend taking a snorkel trip out to the "Aquarium" which is an area of coral reefs protected by a ring of rocks and teeming with brightly coloured reef fish.

Start planning your tailor-made holiday

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