The islands of Mozambique have recently become very accessible and are priced to accommodate a range of safari budgets. Activities abound: fishing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, horseback riding and much more. The white sand beaches and emerald green water are just perfect for a few days’ relaxation after a busy and exciting safari. Easily accessible from Johannesburg or Mpumalanga airports, the flight to Vilanculos is comfortable and the internal air transfer to the islands only takes about 15 minutes.

With new-found peace and a growing economy, this beautiful country has recently re-opened its doors to tourism. Mozambique is a crossroads of civilisations, cultures and landscape, with influences from the early days by Arab traders and Portuguese colonists. Their passion for life can be seen on every corner, from the capital Maputo's bustling city streets and pulsating nightlife to the colourful markets and small fishing villages, which dot the coast. The north of Ilha de Mozambique is a UNESCO world heritage site. Mozambique's unspoiled coastline stretches for nearly 3000 kilometres from Ponta do Ouro in the South to the Rovuma River on the Tanzanian border in the North.

The clear warm ocean currents make this coastline a tropical paradise, and numerous resorts offer relaxing sunbathing, diving and fishing along superb coral reefs, clean white beaches and warm clear water.

There are a number of islands offering excellent island getaways with diving and snorkelling along magnificent coral reefs. Best known is the Bazaruto Archipelago - Magaruque, Benguera, Bazeruto and Santa Carolina (Paradise Island). The official language is Portugese and cultures include European, Shangaan, Chokwe, Manyika, Sena and Makua. The local currency is the Metical. Please consult your local embassy with regard to visa requirements.

In the capital city of Maputo formerly Lourenco Marques, you are never far from the coast and visitors to the city can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze at the many restaurants serving locally caught seafood. Along the marginal is the fish market, where you will find fresh fish for the barbeque without all the effort of catching it. Only a day trip away are the beaches of Macaneta and Island of Inhaca, a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.

Travellers to the South will enjoy the splendid beaches of Ponta do Ouro. This area is one of the best locations for diving in the world and its waters are alive with many species of marine life including dolphins, Manta ray and the occasional shark for the more adventurous. The shoals of tropical fish fill the coral reefs with an ever-changing spectrum of colour.

To the North of Maputo, in the province of Gaza, are the famous beaches of Bilene and Xai-Xai. Their well equipped resorts offer you a choice of water sports, fishing and relaxation in the luxurious setting that will entice you to stay longer and return time and time again.

Further on up the Coast, around the city of Inhambane, are Tofo and many other secluded beaches, some of which are accessible only by four wheel drive vehicle. These palm-fringed bays area safe haven for swimmers. Travelers to Vilanculos will be tempted to Linger a while at the self-contained luxury resorts of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Boat hire can be arranged for those who enjoy deep-sea fishing.

Out of range of most travelers by road are unexplored to the North of Beira, Quelimane and Nampula. On the way you will find the historic town of Angache, which bears the influences of the Arab and Swahili peoples who have trade along this coast for centuries. The Ilha of Mozambique is a fascinating place to visit with much to offer tourists interested in learning about the history and culture of our country.

Tourists traveling to the interior of the country will be enthralled by the beauty of Lago Niassa, the vast lake which borders Tanzania and Malawi. This is one of the wildest places in Mozambique and is not for the fainthearted, however the rewards are great for those who persevere with the journey and here you will find beautiful, undeveloped countryside with the true feel of Africa.

Last, but not least, are the sandy beaches of Pemba and the remote Quirimbas Archipelago. The many small Islands in this area are true treasures isle, with their wealth of marine life and unspoilt beaches. There are a few stunning new resorts in this Arquipelago were you will find the perfect beach.

Dotted along the shoreline are the silhouettes of the dhows, which have been fishing along this coast for centuries. This peaceful way of life creates an atmosphere of calm relaxation for the weary traveler.

Best time to visit is in the dry season from Apr-Sep. Daily temperatures average at about 27°C near the coast. The rainy season runs for the rest of the year, with daily temperatures at around 29°C.