16 Days South Tanzania & Northern Mozambique

Day 8: Mozambique

This morning, prepare for a long drive as you will cross into Mozambique. You will stay at the Mueda Guesthouse, which is a simple but clean local place.

Until mid 2001, the Rovuma River (which is the natural border between Tanzania and Mozambique) could be crossed by dugout canoe only. Nowadays, there is a ferry capable of taking vehicles as well. Crossing the Rovuma River is only possible at high tide, and a lot of time must be allowed for immigration and border formalities! However, during the past two years, the ferry has been grounded, which is why we are taking the longer route via Mueda.

(Please note that in case the ferry is not operating due to a problem we will have to take an alternative route or switch vehicles at the border, however reports tell that a new ferry is ready to be launched and then we would take this route preferably.)

Northern Mozambique is, after nearly 25 years of isolation, re-establishing itself as one of southern Africa’s most intriguing and attractive tourist destinations. Now, with new hotels opening, improvements being made to transport links and with the re-stocking of its reserves and national parks, northern Mozambique is poised to make its mark on the international tourism scene.

However, much of northern Mozambique is very remote – even major towns have only minimal tourist infrastructure, and travel here is mainly for the adventurous. Although visitor numbers are gradually increasing, they remain small overall. While this offers travelers a rare opportunity to discover local culture, it also imposes a greater sense of cultural responsibility. Respect for local customs is therefore particularly important. More than elsewhere in the country, basic knowledge of Portuguese (or, in the far north, Swahili) is essential. Before 1975 the country was a favorite retreat for visitors from neighboring countries. Mozambique is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. With mosques, churches and forts dating back to the Portuguese and Arab rule from the 16th century onward, it is no wonder that Mozambique is one of the most exciting cultural destinations on the continent.

Trips through Northern Mozambique mean adventure. You will visit the most remote parts of Africa. In addition, you will visit the Mozambican coast which is a real historic treasure.

For those with an adventurous spirit and a willingness to be open to and respectful of local customs, this unspoiled region can be one of Mozambique’s most rewarding.

Days 9 & 10: Mozambique

You will travel to Tanganyanga from Mocimboa da Praia, eating a packed lunch on the 6-hour journey. You will then sail by dhow (a traditional boat) at high tide to Ibo Island and check in at Miti Miwiri (full board).

ext day, you will have a guided tour of Ibo, exploring the ancient island. Muslim traders operated here in the 15th century before it became a major slave market and trading post for the Portuguese in the 18th century. Historic buildings, three forts and a beautiful old Catholic church still remain. Ibo provides a chance to interact with the amazing rural people and exchange cultural differences. Traditional silversmiths still work in the main fort, and you are free to wander about this beautiful island and explore. If you like, you can choose to go on a crab and fishing expedition, visit the mangroves, go snorkeling or swimming or go on a historical dhow cruise.

We will explore by traditional Arab dhow one of the beautiful surrounding local islands. Travelling through the mangroves, we will step back in time and observe a way of life that has not changed for thousands of years. Local fishermen catch prawns and giant crabs in these mangroves. Brilliant bird life abounds, with storks, egrets and herons roosting in the mangrove trees. There are excellent snorkeling opportunities, great beaches and a chance to travel and explore the remote coral coast surrounding Ibo.

Day 11: Pemba

After an early departure from Ibo by dhow at high tide, you will drive to the south (in around 4 – 5 hours) to Pemba town and check in at Club Nautilus (bed and breakfast).

The coastal town of Pemba lays claim to some of the finest coral reefs in all of southern Africa. Brilliantly colored coral is but a short swim from the white sands of Wimbe Beach. Divers and snorkelers enter clear depths and swim among a profusion of exotic fish. As you might expect, the seafood is rich and plentiful enough to take your taste buds on a holiday of a lifetime.

Club Nautilus is on Wimbe Beach and has rondavels on the beach. Each rondavel has two bedrooms, a small sitting area and bathroom.

Days 12 & 13: Ilha de Mozambique

From Pemba, you will drive to Ilha de Mozambique, which takes 7 – 8 hours.

It is from the tiny island of Ilha de Mozambique that modern Mozambique got its name. Ilha de Mozambique is a cultural melting pot: African, Arabian and Portuguese. Walk through the narrow streets and mix with the local people, and buy fresh seafood direct from the fishermen.
Ilha de Mozambique is practically a living museum, for this tiny town exhibits the many influences that have moulded Mozambique. The decaying grandeur of its architecture prompted the United Nations to declare the northern half of the island a World Heritage site.
Apart from the natural beauty just a few steps away from your hotel, you will find masterpieces from different civilizations. Since the beginning of time, distant people were brought to the island by the wind. The first to arrive were the Arabs, then came the sailors from India, Europe and even China. Nowadays, you don’t have to depend on the wind to visit the island – you know the exuberant and friendly place exists.
Stay overnight at Escondindinho, a charming Portuguese Poussada fully renovated with en-suite facilities and a separate good restaurant.