Today I’ve got a special guest #InkRipples post for the January travel theme (February’s is chocolate, so make sure to stop back in on Monday, February 1st for that!). Let’s give a big welcome to traveler extraordinaire Oliver Hyde as he shares his passion for Africa!
Under the Sea in Mozambique
by Oliver Hyde
People are usually visiting Africa for the safaris and incredible history and culture. Because we rarely hear about the beauty of the seaside and turquoise waters, we tend to neglect Africa as a travelling destination. Mozambique is the country with the most amazing coastline in entire Africa, and perhaps the world, and it is slowly, but steadily, becoming the favorite destination for snorkelers, surfers and divers. With its 2470 km (1500 miles) of coastline, this African country can match some of the most renowned world destinations, such as Maldives or Hawaii. Let us dive in deeper into the topic and find out why you should put Mozambique on your travel bucket list.
The Coast of Mozambique
As mentioned, the delightful Mozambique has a whole vastness of coastline, and it is no wonder that the beaches and underwater world are so diverse. No matter if your bucket list has swimming with the sharks or catching the biggest wave on it, you will find a place for it in this incredibly picturesque country. Since you will probably have to choose between several locations, we will show you what you are facing.
- Bazaruto Archipelago
The group of five islands (Benguera, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangué) is a protected national park in Mozambique, so you can rest assure that there will be no crowded beaches and that the nature will be practically untouched by human influence. It is the home to dozens of bird species, such as pink flamingos and fish eagles. Other inhabitants of the archipelago are red duikers, Nile crocodiles and bushbucks. Dolphins can be seen swimming through clear waters around the islands, but if you dive deeper you can see more than 2000 different species of fish. Loggerheads, green turtles and leatherbacks can also be seen in this area. The intriguing dugongs spend their time foraging among sea-grass around the archipelago. Top two places to see in Bazaruto Archipelago are San Sebastian and Two Mile Reef. The first one is perfect for diving and scuba diving, and if you visit between May and December, you can also swim with whale sharks. The second one is ideal for snorkeling.
- Quirimbas Archipelago
Located far up north, this group of 32 islands is known for their historical sites, but it does not lack in staggering nature. No one can resist the fascinating white stretches of sand surrounded by azure and turquoise waters and dotted with beautiful greenery of dense mangrove forests. Some of the islands are practically uninhabited, so you can enjoy complete serenity while exploring this breathtaking destination. The archipelago is known for great diving sites, the best of them being Vamizi, Rongui and Quilaluia. Vamizi is famous for world-class diving, snorkeling, dhow sailing and fishing. With its plethora of marine life and stunning coral reefs, it surely offers a spectacular diving experience. Other premiere dive spots, Rongui and Quilaluia, have alluring coral gardens and a wide range of close-in sites for diving and snorkeling. Some of these spots are famous for their luxury resorts, but if you feel more comfortable being in a house or an apartment you can always browse through the offer on propertymaputo.com.
- Tofo
This small village on the south of Mozambique is so sublime that it deserves a special place on our list, near the giants like Bazaruto and Quirimbas. The beach in Tofo runs in a long arc with a small city in the center. It has long been southern Africa’s favorite sea safari location, and it seems that it will remain so. The warm azure waters and the underwater world are pillars of Mozambique tourism. The best diving rounds are from October to May and from May to September. Tofo is also famous as a world-class surfing destination with the best surfing spot in the country and one of the best in the world – Tofinho. It is no wonder, because the immaculate reefs, pleasantly warm waters, dream-like waves, friendly locals and affordable prices, make Tofinho an ideal spot for enthusiasts wanting to get the most bang for their buck.
If you need any other reason to visit Mozambique and discover its charm below and above the water, just remember the amazing hospitality of the locals and the laid back attitude which will finally make you rest on your vacation. Speaking with the words of famous Henning Mankell: “You still feel a genuineness that no longer exists in countries where tourism has been industrially developed.”
About the Author:
Oliver Hyde is an experienced business consultant from the UK. His job allows him to travel, which also happens to be one of his greatest passions. Being a wanderer, he rarely stays at the same place for a long time, but Africa stole his heart. He had been travelling through the continent for more than a year.
Wow! I never realized that Mozambique had so much to offer. Thanks for sharing, Oliver!!
Hi Mary, I’m glad to hear that you liked my story. Mozambique is a beautiful country! I fell in love with it instantly. The whole region is magical. Tanzania is also unbelievable. But I’m afraid the life of the locals is not always “birds and butterflies”.
The pictures are so amazing!