We see enormous untapped potential in Mozambique as a destination whether its as a stand alone offering or combined with several other destinations. In this newsletter, we aim to explore the best of what Mozambique has to offer, and then to look at how it combines to create that dream itinerary. When looking for that perfect Island Paradise holiday a top criterion is often privacy, exclusivity or simply that deserted beach experience. Mozambique’s 2,500 kilometers of unspoilt tropical coastline, dotted with idyllic islands, means it offers the splendid luxury of space. It is for this reason that it’s a popular choice for honeymooners. But if you thought Mozambique is just a beach destination, think again…  Ilha de Mozambique is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a fascinating history and was first settled by Swahili people in the 14th century. The island is 3 kilometres long and 500 meters wide and is located almost 4 kilometres offshore, the Island is connected to the mainland via a narrow bridge which adds to its mystique and charm.  The Portuguese established a port and naval base here in 1507 and built the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Baluarte in 1522, this is now considered the oldest European building in the Southern Hemisphere. Its Fort of São Sebastião is the oldest complete fort still standing in sub-Saharan Africa.  Mozambique has two main archipelago’s, Bazaruto and Quirimbas. Bazaruto is made up of 5 islands and is home to Africa’s largest Marine Reserve. The coral reefs of Mozambique offer premium diving experiences featuring some 6,000 species of fish, dolphins, humpback whales, leatherhead, loggerhead and green turtles plus the elusive and rare dugong. Vilanculos serves as the gate way to this archipelago and guests can take advantage of the direct flights from South Africa’s Kruger National Park into Vilanculos for big 5 game viewing.  Mozambique borders with Tanzania in the north, one gains easy access to the Quirimbas archipelago, using Pemba as a gateway from this classic safari destination. Quirimbas is made up of some 30 islands, many of which are completely uninhabited. This destination is known for its exclusivity and luxury, Medjumba Private Island is possibly the finest example. This area pairs well with a luxury East Africa safari.  As South Africa specialists we enjoy the proximity of Maputo and the beautiful lagoon coast of Southern Mozambique to our own Kwa Zulu Natal. This combination offers an affordable means for enjoying one of our top safari destinations as well as this breathtaking Indian Ocean getaway without the need for the extra cost of a light aircraft flight to the islands. Here your transfer may be a stunning boat trip across the blue!  Or one could look at the Inhambane region which is known for a long-deserted beaches. Enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to see Mantra, whales and also the world largest fish, the whale shark which can grow to 14m in length.  Mozambique is not known for its game viewing, but did you know that the Niassa Reserve is twice the size of Kruger National Park. This is not necessarily a big 5 game viewing experience but fantastic of adventure seekers looking for a guided walk in a truly wild and remote wilderness.  |
Direct flights from Cape Town to Maputo Mozambique is a surprisingly versatile destination, in part due to its length as it shares borders with South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Tanzania making it the idea beach and safari partner. We are particularly excited about the fact LAM (The United Airline of Mozambique), have started direct flights between Cape Town and Maputo which will create more opportunities for this amazing destination. Book Now!  Find out more |