travel | Unique Mozambique

The 10 best Things to do in Unique Mozambique

Jul 2, 2025 | Travel

What to do in Mozambique?

I have already written a lot about how beautiful Mozambique is, why it’s unique, and my Top 10 most beautiful places in Mozambique to visit. If you follow me a on social media, I’ve also revealed many unique accommodations.

Mozambique is best known for its beautiful untouched beaches, romantic island getaways, a warm, dazzling turquoise Indian Ocean, swaying coconut palms, and its fresh fish, lobster and shrimp.

It is an elongated country with a coastline of no less than 2,500 kilometers, but from east to west it is not that big as the crow flies. So yes, the ocean and coast define life in Mozambique. Already centuries ago, people migrated from the interior to the coast to trade and to fish. As a result, Mozambique has fantastic boat builders, for example.

Mozambique is more than just beach discover unique Mozambique with me

Mozambique is so much more than just beach

But Mozambique is so much more than just a beach destination. In short, what can you do in Mozambique? Here are some of my personal favourites.

1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling with Whale Sharks and Manta Rays

Dugong Mozambique (source photo WWF) Discover Unique Mozambique with me

Mozambique is an incredible place for scuba diving and snorkeling. We ourselves came to Mozambique in 2008 to dive in the north near Pemba. The protected Bazaruto Archipelago – the first marine National Park in Mozambique – with its wondrous underwater world, almost extinct Dugongs and innumerable manta rays, is a paradise for scuba divers. The more unknown Morrungulo, about two hours south of Vilanculos, is also spectacular.

Tofo Beach is very popular among scuba divers because of the close proximity of many different reefs to the coast and lots of different sightings.

The far south of Mozambique – Ponta d’Ouro (near the border with South Africa) offers great opportunities for shark diving.

2. Spot a herd of African wild dogs and visit the Pangolin Conservation Project in Gorongosa National Park

Mozambique is not as well-renowned for safaris and wildlife as other nearby countries. This is not surprising as the long civil war in Mozambique (1976 – 1992) left the national parks literally empty.

However, in the seventies the now rehabilitated Gorongosa National Park was the ‘Serengeti of the South’ and one of the most popular and spectacular wildlife parks in Africa. Many celebrities and stars visited this park back then, including John Wayne and Joan Crawford.

Twenty years of wildlife restoration and nature conservation efforts have brought back the wildlife haven it once was – an unprecedented success. The African wild dog – an extremely endangered mammal – lives in the park and it is fantastic to spot these animals here in the wild. The highly endangered and nearly extinct pangolin is also protected here.

3. Spot the Big Five and black and white rhinoceros in Zinave National Park

Zinave National Park is Mozambique’s only Big Five park and was established in 1973. Since the end of the civil war in Mozambique, tremendous efforts have been made to restore Mozambique’s national parks. And with huge success!!! Zinave National Park became the first Big 5 park in Mozambique and is now a safe haven for the highly endangered black and white rhinos.

White Rhino Zinave National Park what to do in Mozambique

Watch my words, just 200 kms from the international airport in Vilanculos – gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago, Zinave National Park will be the new star of Mozambique. We have visited Zinave several times by now and it is truly amazing. This is Africa at its best, with comfortable camping along the majestic Save River filled with hippos and crocodiles. Visiting a park which few people know about, is an unforgettable experience. Get in touch with me about a trip here.

4. Dhow sailing in Mozambique - Find the beautiful tiny seahorses and UNESCO World Heritage Sites by traditional dhow

A dhow is a traditional Arab sailing ship that is still widely used in daily life in Mozambique. Every the morning we see dhows slowly gliding by from our porch here in Vilanculos, while in the evening, their dark sails stick out against the sky like triangles as the fishermen return with their catch.

What to do in Mozambique? 4. Dhow sailing

In Vilanculos many trips to the islands of the idyllic Bazaruto Archipelago are now organized by fast speedboat, which is great fun, but a sailing trip by traditional dhow is a very unique and relaxing thing to experience, a truly slow travel voyage.

You can visit one of the islands of the archipelago, or support the wonderful grassroots organization ParCo and search for the endangered tiny seahorses by the coast of Vilanculos, all by dhow.

On UNESCO World Heritage Site Mozambique Island (Ilha de Moçambique in Portuguese) you can sail around the island and see the UNESCO protected buildings by traditional dhow. An unforgettable experience.

5. Buy your dinner fresh from the beach - seafood and lobster-

What to do in Mozambique? 5. Buy your dinner fresh from the beach

Here in Mozambique, the beach is still mainly used for daily life, such as repairing the fishing nets and as a departure and arrival point for the local fishing dhows. Life is determined by the tides, the wind and by the weather conditions. How unique it is to buy a super fresh fish or lobster from the local fishermen which you can then grill on your barbeque. You won’t get it fresher and more local! A beach dinner by the fire on the Indian Ocean and under the stars, while enjoying a cold beer and with freshly caught fish is super fun to do. I’ll arrange it for you!

6. Go back in time and take a walking tour in Stone Town on Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island)

Many people don’t know that Mozambique has its own Stone Town. On UNESCO World Heritage listed Ilha de Moçambique (Portuguese for Mozambique Island), the first place where the explorer Vasco da Gama set foot on land in Mozambique, is bursting with unique activities to do.

What to do in Mozambique. Discover culture and history on lha de Moçambique

A place where past and present intertwine, you will feel like you have arrived into another world, far away from modern life. Walk in the footsteps of the Arab traders and sleep in a Mozambican riad, one of the unique accommodations on the island, with a courtyard garden.

Take a walking tour of Stone Town and imagine yourself in a distant past, when the island was teeming with Arab, Swahili and Portuguese traders. Visit the fort (Fortaleza de São Sebastião), the fascinating museum and the Governor’s House and marvel at this fascinating island.

7. Visit the historic working-class neighbourhoud of Mafalala - the 'township of Maputo

The urban district of Mafalala (most probably derived from a form of dance in the northern Macua language called ‘M ‘falala) was built in Portuguese colonial times as a segregated area for Mozambican workers who were not allowed in the city center. The area attracted workers from far and wide from all sorts of regions, cultures and countries – from the Islamic north of Mozambique, the Comoros Islands and Zanzibar to Madagascar, India and Goa.

The first President of Mozambique Samora Machel

The neighborhood thus became a melting pot of many cultures and ideas and a breeding ground for artists, writers, poets and musicians. It became a place where artists, intellectuals, students and activists came together and political activism against colonial rule flourished. Mozambique’s first president Samora Machel, President Joaquim Chissano, soccer player Eusébio and other prominent figures in Mozambique lived in this neighborhood.

A must do tour in Maputo!

8. Visit the beautiful train station of Maputo and other sights

The imposing and impressive train station in Maputo (Estação de Caminhos de Ferro de Maputo) is a must see in the capital of Mozambique. A guided city tour that includes a visit to the station, the cathedral, City Hall, and the Iron House built by Gustaf Eiffel is a fun activity to do in Maputo. The botanical gardens are a wonderful and relaxing place to stroll around.

What to do in Mozambique? 8. Visit Maputo

9. Learn about Mindfulness meditation on a deserted sandbank in the Indian Ocean

It was American John Kabat Zinn who brought mindfulness meditation to the west and showed how it could help with stress, sleeping problems, anxiety and depression. Apart from this, mindfulness can help you better understand your mind and help you find the stillness and peace we all have within ourselves but overlook it in our busy lives.

What to do in Mozambique? Learn about mindfulness meditation

A Mindful Experience in Africa

On vacation in a beautiful tropical destination like Mozambique, it is not so hard to relax. But what about when you get back home and quickly fall back into old patterns? Learn more about mindfulness meditation during your holiday in Mozambique and bring back some of these tools to your daily life.

Book a private session with Gerry, currently the only MA qualified Mindfulness teacher in Mozambique and join him for a truly unique meditation session on a stunning sandbank off the coast of Vilanculos.

Bush Beach & Wellbeing Men's Retreat Zinave National Park Mozambique

Or how about a wellbeing retreat amongst the Big Five? In October we run a very special Bush Beach and Being Men’s Retreat in Zinave National Park & Vilanculos.

10. Marlin and Sport fishing in Mozambique

The Bazaruto Archipelago is not just a paradise for divers, snorkelers and beach and ocean lovers, but also for fishing enthusiasts from around the world. Sports fishing is a hugely popular activity here in Mozambique, and the Bazaruto Archipelago is a prime location to fish for black and blue marlin, sailfish, dorado, wahoo, tuna, king mackerel, and sharks amongst many others.

What to do in Mozambique. 10. Game fishing in Bazaruto Archipelago (private photo)

To be honest, before we moved to Vilanculos I had never heard of a marlin. When we became friends with Duarte Rato here, I learned about these giants which are closely related to swordfish and sailfish. They can weigh over 800 kg! People come here from all over the world to go fishing and to go marlin fishing with Duarte, one of the best marlin fishermen in the world.

Last November we had a guest in our guest room, who went fishing with Duarte for a few days. At nights he came back with all sorts of fish he happily shared, grilled to perfection on the BBQ. We love these guests!

What to do in Mozambique. Game fishing Bazaruto Archipelago Mozambique (private photo)

Book your unique holiday in Mozambique with me get in touch

Why visit Mozambique? 5 things that make Mozambique unique

May 8, 2025 | Travel

What is Unique about Mozambique?

I think Mozambique is beautiful. But what is unique about Mozambique? This is, of course, a question that’s often asked of me, given the name of my company! The name sort of popped up spontaneously after we had been living here in Vilanculos, Mozambique for about two years. I thought – “why hasn’t there been a company with this name before?” It was waiting for me.

At the Fair for Adventurous, Luxury and Cultural tours in Amsterdam earlier this year, it was the first question that visitors asked : “So, what makes Mozambique unique?” Here are my answers:

5 things that make Mozambique unique 2. authentic & undiscovered

Top 5 reasons you should visit Mozambique

1. The people

“What do you miss most about Mozambique right now?” – a Portuguese friend asked me when we were in Europe for a few months in 2023. I let this question sit for a bit, but if I have to choose the number one thing that I miss I replied, it would definitely be the people here.

Mozambicans are very sweet and friendly, maybe a little bit reserved at first, but this is often due to language barriers. I have always met many warm people on my travels throughout southern Africa – Africans in general have a lot of fun and laugh a lot! I feel a lot of humanity and compassion here in Africa. It’s something you can directly feel and experience whether it’s in their family, communities, or lending a helping hand to the weary traveler.

What is unique about Mozambique? 5 reasons to visit Mozambique. 1. The people

Mozambicans can come across somewhat shy at first but once they trust you, they show incredible purity and sincerity. After living here for almost four years now, I’ve discovered that Mozambicans really enjoy doing things together, including with you. They are genuinely happy when you have had a nice experience or had a good time or trip (΅boa viagem”).

2. Authentic, undiscovered and unspoiled

Life here in Mozambique is still slow, uncomplicated and authentic. For tourism, Mozambique is relatively undiscovered and unknown. For this reason tourist numbers are low – which also means that you’ll have a lot of places and beaches to yourself. Unlike in other African countries for example, a safari in Gorongosa National Park means you are unlikely to meet more than one or two safari jeeps along the way. This is very special.

When we first visited Mozambique in 2008, I immediately found it a country of immense beauty. Now that we live here, I realize even more how unspoiled it (still) is – from the African bush that covers most of the country, to its pristine coastline and marine life.

The south of Mozambique sees more and more tourists these days, and places like Tofo Beach or Ponta do Ouro (‘Point of Gold’) are very popular. But even here, tourism is minimal compared to other destinations.

5 things that make Mozambique unique Authentic and undiscovered unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique.

Apart from the big cities, you won’t see shopping malls here. Instead, local dhows slowly sail by in the morning, bringing their catch of the day back ashore in the afternoon, playing dolphins and fast running crabs, while local children will always climb a palm tree to get a coconut for you.

In Mozambique life is still mainly determined by the cycle of the tides and the seasons.

3. Safe and relaxed

Discover Unique Mozambique with me, unique experiences personalized travel & wellbeing retreats in Mozambique

One of the reasons for us to settle in Vilanculos was its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Mozambique is a safe, calm and peaceful country. The far north of Mozambique, the Cabo Delgado province, has had internal problems for several years of now. This is related to the oil and gas fields there and a local population which feels they are not benefiting enough from these resources. Because of the troubles, the perception for some time has been that the whole of Mozambique would not be safe. But this is absolutely not true. The far north is hardly visited right now, and it is a couple of thousand kms away from where we live. But in the rest of the country you will very quickly feel at ease. You can easily travel around – with small children or your elderly father or mother of 80+ years.

Mozambique is very safe 5 things that make Mozambique unique Authentic and undiscovered unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique

4. Exclusive safaris: The Big Five on land and in the Ocean!

The Big 5 on both land and in the ocean – Mozambique has it all! It is one of the most beautiful destinations for snorkeling and diving in Africa.

The Indian Ocean’s clear blue underwater world is home to many extraordinary underwater species – a fascinating aquarium for the undersea explorer.

What can you see in the ocean?

Dugong

5 things that make Mozambique unique 4. The Big Five on land and ocean unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique.

Commonly known as a ‘sea cow’, the dugong is now an endangered mammal that lives in the warm waters of the Bazaruto Archipelago. This vegetarian is a beautiful animal to see. They are related to the manatee – water mammals that have existed for more than 50 million years.

Manta Rays

The waters off Tofo Beach and the Bazaruto Archipelago are a globally important location for manta ray populations, the largest of the devil ray species. The largest populations of reef and giant manta rays in Africa are to be found here, and every year more species continue to be discovered. American born and Vilanculos based Andrea Marshall was the first person in the world to complete a PhD on manta rays, and the BBC documentary “Queen of the Mantas” is a tribute to her work which is well worth watching.

Whale sharks

Tofo Beach is a popular destination for seeing these giants of the ocean. This big, friendly, and largest fish of the sea, is beautiful to see both underwater and from a boat on the surface, from which you might be able to jump overboard and snorkel alongside. Besides manta rays and whale sharks, Mozambique’s waters are also populated by barracudas, various shark species, huge giant lobsters and many types of reef fish. The Bazaruto Archipelago alone hosts more than 2,000 types of fish, making up 75% of the species found in the Indian Ocean.

Humpback whales

From June to September you can take a boat trip or (depending on where you are) simply stand on the beach and watch the majestic migrating and breaching humpback whales along the coast of Mozambique. They come here during these months from Antarctica, to warmer waters, where they give birth to their young. A must see if you are here during this time.

Best places for diving and snorkeling unique Mozambique

5 things that make Mozambique unique 4. Safaris on land and ocean

Safari in Mozambique: Gorongosa, Zinave & Maputo Nationa Park

Gorongosa National Park, in the heart of Mozambique, is a nature and wildlife paradise. Known as Africa’s largest nature restoration project, it is also home to the critically endangered pangolin, among others. Twenty years of ecosystem restoration has brought back the huge numbers of game that were formerly here. Now once again, you’ll find elephants, lions, buffalo, wildebeest, hippos, zebra’s, huge numbers of waterbuck and, most special, African wild dogs, one of the most endangered mammals in the world.

5 things that make Mozambique unique 4. Big Five on land and ocean

The new star of Mozambique, Zinave National Park, has all of the Big Five and a lot of rhinos, both black and white. Zinave is only 200 kms from Vilanculos on sand road. It is situated on the majestic Save River, full of grunting hippos, and spectacular birdlife – a magical place to visit.

Maputo National Park doesn’t have the Big Five but there are many elephants, smaller game and abundant birdlife. This park is right by the Indian Ocean and close to the capital Maputo with a wide variety of accommodation options, which makes it a very accessible and interesting park to visit.

5. Mozambique's Rich Culture and History - Cultural Holidays to Mozambique

Mozambique, though, is much more than beach and safari. What many people don’t know is that it also has UNESCO world heritage sites and many cultural and historical places to visit. Mozambique Island (Ilha de Mozambique), with Stonetown, local Makua and Swahili culture, mix of Portuguese and Arab influences and UNESCO heritage is a fascinating place to visit and stay.

Discover Unique Mozambique with me, unique experiences personalized travel & retreats in Mozambique

The beautiful locally made handicrafts and baskets are a treasure to take home.

Mozambican cuisine is a blend of Portuguese and African influences, in the north also Indian and Arab influences. Mozambique has some of the best fresh seafood, especially lobster and prawns are a delight.

The capital Maputo, previously known as Lourenço Marques, has many interesting art galleries, good restaurants where you can taste the Mozambican kitchen and architectural sites to visit.

Last but not least, the colours!

Finally, the colours. This is something that immediately stands out in Mozambique. When I first visited, I had never seen such beautiful white beaches. I lived in the Algarve in Portugal for 10 years and there the beaches are also fantastic, of course. But let me tell you, Mozambique is something else. Perfect turquoise waters, especially around Mozambique Island and the Bazaruto Archipelago, dhows slowly drifting by, fisherman selling you fresh lobster, the colourful capulanas (sarongs) of the local women, and an unspoiled coast with hardly any tourists. A unique combination.

Mozambique – the Thailand of Africa but without the influx of tourists.

Aerial view of Benguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago Mozambique (credit &Beyond)

Combine an adventurous, cultural holiday with the best beaches and safaris, for a truly unique stay.

What are the best places to visit in Mozambique?

Apr 2, 2025 | Travel

1. Vilanculos (Vilankulo)

Vilanculos. This former quiet fishing town is a fast growing place and became known mostly as the gateway to the beautiful Bazaruto Archipelago. It’s a very laid-back place where life is still slow and authentic and fresh fish is being sold on the beach. We are facing the idyllic Bazaruto Archipelago with its paradise islands, turquoise blue water and pristine underwater world.

Vilanculos is a perfect place to relax and unwind, go for a quiet walk on the beach, enjoy a drink on the beach watching the dhows passing by and listening to the calming waves of the ocean. Read more about Vilanculos here.

Local dhow on beach in Vilanculos Mozambique

2. The Bazaruto Archipelago

The Bazaruto Archipelago is beautiful. Think of the Maledives or Seychelles of Mozambique, bounty islands with crystal clear white beaches, blue warm water surrounded by untouched protected coral reefs, whales, dolphins and the rare Dugong.

3. Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island)

UNESCO world heritage-listed Ilha de Mozambique is one of the most fascinating and interesting places to visit on your holiday to Mozambique. The Zanzibar of Mozambique but without the many tourists. Full of beautiful accommodations. Foodies will love it here too!

Stay a couple of days in one of the uniquely restored historical buildings – now boutique hotels – and cross over to Cabaceira Grande or Lumbo for a peaceful and relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle of Ilha. Here you will find the most beautiful beaches you will ever see.

Aerial view of death island a pristine sandback in front of the coastal town of Vilanculos Mozambique

4. Gorongosa National Park

Gorongosa is overwhelming. A safari in what is called Africa’s greatest wildlife restoration story, is a unique and very special experience. Remote, wild, exclusive, diverse and off the beaten track. Bush and Beach at its best! Read more about our visit to Beira and Gorongosa National park here.

Lioness in Gorongosa National Park - Mozambique in Africa offers the best and most unique safaris

5. Bartolomeu Dias (BD) Point, Inhassoro

Have you ever dreamed of driving across a stunning white sand beach along the Indian Ocean?

BD point-or Bartolomeus Dias point, named after the explorer-is accessible only at low tide. After driving on a spectacular beach for 30 kilometers, you will arrive at a unimaginably beautiful tropical secluded lagoon with turquoise blue water, soft white sand and traditional swahili dhows slowly gliding by. Stay in Sussurro Boutique Hotel or Rio Azul Lodge.

Aerial view on the lagoon Sussurro Boutique Hotel Mozambique photo credits Sussurro

Here, you truly feel at the end of the world.

6. Robinson Crusoe in Morrungulo

Be a Robinson Crusoe and take yourself to a spectacular stretch of unspoiled coastline with white sand and huge coconut and indigenous trees, while buying your fresh fish from the fishermen.

This is the place to hide yourself from the world, watch the moon rising up from the ocean and view endless starry skies. The diving here is fantastic and you can even join a yoga class with Peri Peri divers. Or why not dive into your inner self and combine Morrungulo with our unique well-being and well-doing package?

Best places to visit in Mozambique. Morrungulo. My personal recommendations

7. Tofo Beach

Lively and vibrant Tofo with its huge beach, good choice of restaurants, hip vibe and affordable accommodation, is home of the whale sharks, mantarays, humpback whales and many more beautiful underwater creatues. This is THE place to do an ocean safari, dive the numerous reefs, go on a daytrip to the lagoon or just relax and chill.

Ocean Safari in Tofo Beach. Join us for a unique Bush & Beach Meditation Yoga & Surf Retreat Mozambique Africa September 2025

8. Maputo National Park

Unique, because here it is possible to see the two largest mammals in one day: The elephant and the whale!

Only 100km south of the capital Maputo, Maputo National Park, also called Maputo Special Reserve, is very accessible, yet still not busy with tourists. It combines lakes, wetlands, forests, mangroves and lots of wildlife. A safari here is a very relaxing experience and great start or end of your trip in Mozambique.

Best places to visit in Mozambique. My personal recommendations

9. Maputo - The capital of Mozambique

It feels a bit unfair to put Mozambique’s relaxed coastal capital on nr 9 but don’t read the list in order…Maputo is cool! Lots of artists and culture, great markets, great restaurants, interesting sites to visit for example the beautiful railway station and ‘Casa de Ferro’ (iron house) built by Gustave Eiffel. A relaxed vibe, live music and a fantastic fish market where you can buy the freshest of fish. While you have your cold beer they will cook it for you! A super local and cool experience.

Maputo experiences, visit the vibrant capital of Mozambique with fresh seafood and iron house

10. The Secrets

Mozambique is full of deserted beaches, hidden getaways, fun places and surprises. Inhambane is a nice town to visit and see the amazing market with colourful baskets. Beira is a good base to visit Gorongosa National Park. The town of Mabote, halfway to Zinave National Park, is a friendly town in the middle of the Mozambican bush where you will really and truly experience local life. Zinave National Park is Mozambique’s rising star on the safari circuit.

Everything is different and unique. Let me surprise you. Welcome to Mozambique!

Arts & crafts Mozambique baskets market Inhambane

A Cultural Discovery Holiday in Africa: Fascinating Mozambique Island

Mar 11, 2025 | Travel

Our visit to Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island)

The Island of Mozambique/Mozambique Island – Ilha de Moçambique in Portuguese -, is one of the most beautiful and historically culturally interesting places to visit in Mozambique.

We visited the island in 2017 for the first time and I loved it. I will never forget staying in this centuries old house named Casa das Ondas (House of Waves) which was full of beautiful wooden furniture. I felt like I had stepped into a different era, a different time. A time long gone but still so present and so tangible that present and past intermingled in an almost surreal way. The image of a local lady dressed in a beautifully-coloured capulana (type of a sarong) sitting in front of the house, gazing over the endless calm turquoise blue Indian Ocean, is an image printed in my memory.

Local ladies in doorway Ilha de Mozambique UNESCO world heritage site

Travelling on local transport Mozambique

Local Etrago bus Mozambique roadrip north to Nampula

This time it took us a bit longer to get there, as we didn’t fly to Nampula like we did in 2017. Instead, we travelled on local transport all the way from Vilanculos. We were lucky that, after leaving Gorongosa National Park early at sunrise to wait for a bus, that one came almost immediately, taking us all the way to Nampula (16 hours) from where we could go on to Mozambique Island the next day.

To get to Ilha, we took a chapa (local minibus) from Nampula and while we were waiting for the bus to fill up, local sellers passed by selling fresh fried prawns on a stick in homemade Peri-Peri sauce, for 5 meticais (about 5 Euro cents). Delicious!

Cramped in a jam packed chapa, the journey took much longer than expected, partly because we lost half of the cargo halfway down the road and had to go back and find it. Secondly, these chapas stop EVERYWHERE as they need to load off their cargo. They are really more cargo carriers than passenger buses which frustrates me immensely and there were quite a few times I lost my temper on this trip. Not very mindful, I know, but travelling on local transport in Africa has its challenges. We finally crossed the bridge to the island after dark.

Back to mystical Ilha de Mozambique

Discover the real Africa with me in mysterious Mozambique. Ilha de Moçambique

Arriving on the small island, my memory had not played tricks on me. It was still a beautiful and special place. It felt like arriving in a different world, a different time zone, a different energy. An energy of peace, of inspiration and beauty.

We based ourselves in Hotel Central, had a cold beer and I had a quick walk around town feeling like I had travelled far back in time, just like I felt back in 2017. I visited Casa Gabriel, the guesthouse of Italian Gabriel who has been living on the island for years, and who beautifully restored one of the old buildings into a charming and cozy little guesthouse, which is very reasonably priced.

UNESCO World heritage site - history of Mozambique Island

Ilha de Mozambique was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991 because of its important cultural history. It was the capital of Portuguese East Africa under Portuguese colonial rule, after Vasco da Gama discovered the island in the late 14th century. It then became the first capital of Mozambique. Its name was derived from sultan ‘Ali Musa Mbiki’, a sultan who ruled the island in the 15th century. And that’s how the country also got its name.

Later, the Dutch also tried to attack and conquer the Portuguese settlements here, but didn’t succeed. However, history goes much further back than that. Arabian tradesmen already came to the area around the 10th century and Bantu-speaking people- perhaps as early as the 3rd century- migrated from inland to the coastal areas. This mixture of Swahili, Arab and European influences make the island a unique destination in Mozambique to visit. Different cultures and religions have peacefully lived here together for centuries and the island breathes an atmosphere of openness and tolerance, which feels very pleasant.

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Courtyard of the Palace Museum in Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island) visit July 2024

Boutique Hotels & Accommodation

Terraço das Quitandas Design Accommodation on Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island)

The following day we visited some beautiful and unique accommodations for Unique Mozambique’s portfolio. For example, Terraço das Quitandas which is a 300 year old building next to the old customs house, now beautifully restored into a boutique design hotel. In Jardim dos Aloés (House of the Aloe Veras) we were warmly welcomed by Italian owner Bruno who has transformed an old warehouse into a unique, cozy and personal guesthouse where you will be treated as a king or queen. Stepping through the old Arab doors you’ll find a different world. My favourite on the island!

With Bruno owner of boutique guesthouse Jardim dos Aloés on Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island)

Bruno invited us to breakfast the next day where we met lovely other guests. Breakfast here is a real feast and owner Bruno is a true encyclopaedia and ambassador for the island. The luxurious Villa Sands hotel personally had less appeal to me, it’s a nice hotel but part of a chain which immediately makes it feel a lot less personal, even though the staff were super nice and friendly.

Visiting Jardim dos Aloés guesthouse on Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island)

Stone Town & Traditional Dhow Tours

We had a stroll around historical Stone Town and met the lovely Fahar from Ilha Blu, who organises dhow tours, bicycle and historical walking tours as well as whale watching and sunset boat trips. Sailing around the blue waters of Ilha, seeing the UNESCO heritage site from the Indian Ocean on a historical dhow sailing boat – how unique is that! Ilha Blu is based in a beautifully restored building, now a cafe with lovely staff and great cocktails!

Local women in the beautifully restored Ilha Blu cafe on Ilha de Mozambique - Mozambique island

Harbour of Ilha de Moçambique Island of Mozambique Visit 2024

Mozambique cuisine& local culture

We indulged ourselves in the delicious culinary culture of Ilha and its very nice restaurants, eating the local speciality Cava Cava (type of lobster) which was super tasty. We went to another local restaurant and I had the best Matapa I have eaten in Mozambique. The cuisine on the island is a mix of fresh fish with Arabic influences of herbs and spices which makes for the most delicious dishes.

We stayed on the island for 4 days, met the friendliest of people, visited the interactive exhibition where, with 3D and virtual reality and took a journey through the past and Makua culture .We visited the Fortaleza de São Sebastião (fort of San Sebastian) and the museum where the wildly enthusiastic guide told us all about the island’s history. In the evening we were entertained with upbeat live music in one of the cafes.

Live music in restaurant cafe Âncora d'Ouro Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island) visit July 2024

Visit Mozambique Island

Visit the Island of Mozambique if you want to learn more about Mozambique’s rich history, culture and cuisine. It is a true highlight of any trip to Mozambique and one of the most special places in southern Africa I have been to.

How to get there? No worries, I will help you organise the trip. We can plan a (video) call to discuss your needs and preferences for accommodations, route and activities in order to completely customize your holiday.

Mozambique Offers the Best Exclusive Safaris in Africa

Feb 26, 2025 | Travel

Our visit to the majestic Gorongosa National Park - A Roadtrip north

Minibus called chapa in Mozambique for local passenger transport

We decided to go on a trip north to Mozambique and check out Gorongosa National Park, Beira, and further north, Ilha de Moçambique. The north of Mozambique is beautiful and exotic. At least that’s how I remember it from when we first visited there in 2005.

This part of Mozambique has beautiful and interesting sights. But the roads in this part of the country are very bad and our car is now an elderly man, so we decided to travel by local transport. Getting up at the crack of dawn we left in the very early hours from Vilanculos for Beira. The road after crossing the Save river is absolutely dreadful. I don’t think I have ever seen such big potholes in my life. But with a front seat in the chapa (local minibus) it wasn’t too bad, the driver drove carefully and once we reached Inchope, a beautiful new highway built by the Chinese, loomed before us. This road connects Beira to land-locked Zimbabwe as Beira has an important port. From here it’s only another 2 hours drive to Beira.

Beira, Mozambique's second city

Fishermen beach Beira, Mozambique Mozambique

Beira is Mozambique’s second largest city after Maputo, with a lot of Portuguese influences. In terms of tourism perhaps not the most interesting city, but it has a relaxed atmosphere, friendly people, lots of nice restaurants and fine middle-class hotels. I really liked Beira. It has an international airport with direct flights from Johannesburg and is a good base for a night or two, before visiting Gorongosa National Park which is about a 5 hour drive from there. Our local chapela (tuk tuk) driver turned out to speak excellent English, we found a great guide! Fransisco was also really nice guy and we had intense discussions about Mozambican politics.

He took us around the city in his chapela, exploring the city, visiting hotels and enjoying the good seafood here. He showed us the fishing port with the old fishing vessels, the old town, the train station with a daily connection to Zimbabwe and the impressive cathedral of Beira. We saw the former Grand Hotel, an institution during the colonial time but now a dilapidated slum. Hotel Estoril is a nice mid-range hotel which offers a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. Hotel Tivoli, a sister hotel of the one in Maputo is another good choice here, located in downtown Beira with a colonial feel, old wooden floors and a good restaurant. We stayed in a private house from a lovely couple who run a sustainable forest for Mozambican hardwood in the Gorongosa area called Levas Flor. Nothing is coincidental and I was getting excited about Gorongosa!

Local chapela (Tuk Tuk) driver Beira Mozambique

Off to Gorongosa National Park

Road to Gorongosa National Park along highway N1 in Mozambique

Off in an early chapa again as we continued our journey to Gorongosa National Park. Though they promised us to go to the park’s turnoff, the driver dropped us off back in Inchope from where we had to find another chapa to the entrance of the park. From here, it’s another 30 km on a dirt road to the park entrance. After hours crammed into overcrowded minibuses, the pickup by comfortable private safari jeep was a real treat and the road to the park entrance magnificent – a taste of what was to come. I had no idea what to expect and had brought our own tent – lodging in Gorongosa does come at a price. But we were received with all honors, were offered a safari tent with nice beds in the main camp and invited to do as many safaris as we could fit in.

Safari jeep driving into Gorongosa National Park

Conservation and local community projects and unforgettable experiences

We met Vasco, the passionate PR Director of the park, who had wanted to go to Gorongosa even as a little boy when he watched a promotional film about it. He actually showed us the film – complete with VW vans used as safari jeeps back in the sixties! With great love and passion, Vasco told us all about the history of Gorongosa, its decline during the civil war in Mozambique, the restoration afterwards and the numerous community-, research, scientific and innovative projects happening there.

It’s an understatement to say it was inspiring to see what has been achieved here in twenty years. I was completely overwhelmed. After the ecosystem had been restored, wildlife returned, and now the area is bursting with animals. There are professional and cheerful guides, beautiful accommodations and camps, breathtaking colors, and there is peace, silence and just pure beauty.

Early morning safaris

Early morning safari in Gorongosa National Park Mozambique July 2024

Up at the crack of dawn we made some fantastic safaris, saw a huge herd of wild dogs, lots of lions and elephants, thousands and thousands of waterbucks, extraordinary beautiful landscapes, laughed with the guides, had a Gin & Tonic at a magical sunset surrounded by hippos, crocodiles and breathtaking colors. We visited the two exceptionally beautiful and exclusive safari camps in the heart of Gorongosa, Muzimu Lodge and Wild Camp, the latter now called Chicari Camp. Chicari was definitely my favourite, with only 6 private tents sitting around a waterhole and with an open view to Gorongosa’s specactular nature and wilfdlife. This is wild Africa at its best. Without Wifi in the camp, modern life is far away and just sitting there watching all that wildlife and nature around you, the colors and sounds and the endless skies, was an almost indescribable magic experience.

Save the pangolins

Man showing pangolin Gorongosa National Park Mozambique

We visited some of the amazing projects in the park like the Saving Pangolins project and I saw a Pangolin for the first time in my life. What a sweet and beautiful animal, but sadly the most trafficked mammal on Earth. We sat by the campfire at night gazing at thousands of stars in the main base camp, Chitengo Camp. Montebelo Gorongosa Lodge in the main camp offers nice and clean double rooms at an affordable price and the restaurant has a very varied menu. We slept like a baby with the sounds of the bush. On one of the safaris, just for a brief moment, I felt that I had reached a feeling of complete oneness with nature, which made me very emotional.

Large African antelope (Kudu) in Gorongosa National Park

For an unforgettable unique exclusive safari experience, visit Gorongosa National Park. It’s special, it’s exclusive, it’s overwhelming and it is definitely unique. The safaris are fantastic and professionally guided and you will learn a tremendous amount about the conservation efforts and the ecosystem. Besides regular safaris, there are also walking safaris available and boat excursions on the Urema flood plain (in season), a very special safari experience. We went in July (winter time) so did not do this but I hope to go back. You can also visit the remote Gorongosa mountain and the coffee project, and stay two nights in a community-run camp with access to lush forests, stunning waterfalls and spectacular nature.

Guide in Gorongosa National Park Mozambique talking to Gerry on sunset safari

An absolute highlight in Mozambique

I was deeply impressed and this is for me absolutely one of the highlights in Mozambique.