Mozambique is often regarded as one of Africa’s up and coming hot-spots and rightly so. It is a country with a fascinating blend of cultures, beautiful scenery and welcoming locals. Though Mozambique shares borders with six other African nations its largest neighbour is the Indian Ocean
The country’s 2,500 km of pristine coastline is lapped by warm azure waters and is dotted with virtually deserted archipelagos. It is hard to believe that the nation’s picture perfect beaches have remained practically undiscovered for so long.
For those wanting to get away from it all, the Quirimbas Archipelago located off the northern coast boasts some of the most stunning islands in the world. The protected National Park offers un-paralleled peace and tranquility and is the ultimate when it comes to a tropical island hideaway. It is a hard task to decide which island to stay on within this archipelago as each one is a gem. Ibo with its ancient forts or one of its numerous white sandy beaches. Other islands that may entice you are Mejumbe, Matemo and Vamizi.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilha de Moçambique is an absorbing place to begin learning about Mozambique’s colonial history. Once the capital of Portuguese East Africa, and before that a major Arab trading port, Ilha de Moçambique has a colourful history and the majestic chapel and fort stand testament to this.
Mozambique’s game reserves are undergoing somewhat of a re-invigoration. Fortunately they remain reasonably undiscovered and for those wanting to experience the true African bush, away from the hordes of gawking crowds, Parque Nacional de Gorongosa is the place.
Further South, closer to the South African border, is the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park. There are some world class beach hideaways here namely Marlin Bay, Zura and Benguerra.
Thirty years ago Mozambique attracted more tourists than South Africa and Zimbabwe combined; now it remains a relatively unexplored region of Africa, unspoilt by mass tourism.