Mozambique

A Bush and Beach Safari in Paradise

Mozambique destinations are some of Africa's best-kept secrets. This hidden gem boasts over 2,500 kilometres (1,553 miles) of unspoilt coastline, brimming with pristine beaches and tropical offshore islands. Where its more high-profile counterparts, like Seychelles, Zanzibar, and Mauritius, might see more foot traffic, a Mozambique holiday (or Moçambique holiday, if you prefer the Portuguese spelling) is fast becoming the continent's top destination for a classic tropical island vacation.

Trips to Mozambique often consist of visiting the mainland or an idyllic island off the coast, like Quirimbas Island, Bazaruto Island or Benguerra Island. Mozambique beaches offer some of the best barefoot luxury holidays in the world, with a wide array of exciting activities to keep you busy when not soaking up the sun – including world-class diving in Bazaruto National Park. But there's more to Mozambique vacations than just tropical islands, immaculate beaches, and frolicking in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. The mainland of this Southern African country has much to offer as well. From impeccable game viewing in Mozambique's beautiful and diverse flagship park, Gorongosa National Park, to the rich cultural and historic experiences that have shaped this remarkable nation.

With its exceptional ability to offer unforgettable bush and beach safaris in paradise, Mozambique is standout destination in Africa. Here are our favourite reasons to go on vacation in Mozambique:

1. Soak Up the Sun on Immaculate Beaches & Unspoilt Islands

Swaying palm trees, year-round balmy weather, sparkling turquoise waters, and powder-white soft sand are staples of beaches in Mozambique. Whether you find yourself on the coastline of the mainland or the shores of one of the many idyllic isles, Mozambique beaches have a way of dispelling the stressors of everyday life and slowing things down to island time. And although Mozambique is fast gaining a reputation for being Africa's best beach destination, much of the coastline remains untouched – meaning that you'll find many deserted beaches that stretch on for miles, leaving you with a truly private beach experience. There's also plenty to keep you entertained during your visit, from diving in gorgeous coral reefs and big game fishing to whale watching and traditional dhow cruises.

Highlights:

• World-class water-based activities, including outstanding diving conditions in pristine coral reefs, big game fishing, snorkelling, whale watching, spotting the rare dugong, seeing turtles' nest and hatchlings make their way to the sea, and swimming with whale sharks.
• Quirimbas Archipelago is a stunning and isolated spot that offers breath-taking beaches – giving you a true island paradise virtually all to yourself.
• Benguerra and Bazaruto Islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago are playgrounds for those seeking a quintessential barefoot luxury beach vacation. Upscale resorts, pristine beaches, warm weather, and spectacular views are par the course.

 2. Experience Barefoot Luxury at Lavish Resorts

Trips to Mozambique are a delight for many reasons, but one that undeniably stands out are the fantastic accommodations on offer. Visitors are spoilt for choice with several stylish yet comfortable luxury resorts offering warm, friendly service, world-class amenities, and exceptional experiences. Whether you're staying on the mainland or on one of Mozambique's islands, you can be sure that barefoot luxury is always nearby.

Highlights:

• Benguerra Island offers exquisite high-end options that exudes elegance alongside its relaxed atmosphere. Mozambique accommodation like Azura Benguerra and Benguerra Island Lodge are the perfect laidback beachside resorts for both honeymooners and families.
• On the mainland, White Pearl Resort and Santorini make for a great family holiday in Mozambique, offering a variety of on-site amenities, like spas and private plunge pools, as well as many beach- and water-based activities – including volleyball, beach cricket. surfing, horse riding, kayaking, snorkelling, and diving.
• A honeymoon in Mozambique is unforgettable. Newlyweds or couples in need of a romantic getaway will find exclusivity, luxury, and privacy on the idyllic shores of Medjumbe Private Island in the Quirimbas Archipelago. Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort & Spa is the ultimate island retreat for making memories and deepening the bond with your significant other.

3. Explore Untouched Coral Reefs in One of the World's Finest Diving Destinations

Unbeknownst to many, Mozambique is one of the best diving destinations in the world, offering a marine safari like no other. The warm, crystal-clear water of the Indian Ocean, unspoilt coral reefs and bounteous, varied marine life all blend to create the ideal diving conditions that accommodate all levels of divers. When diving in Africa off the shores of Mozambique beaches, you'll explore reef depths of between 10 to 40 metres (33 to 131 feet) that is home to an incredible range of coral, as well as over 6,000 species of fish. You stand a good chance of spotting barracuda, manta rays, moray eels, sharks, kingfish, giant lobsters, and whale sharks. The best part is that diving is a year-round activity in the country – making any time of year the best time to visit Mozambique.

Highlights:

• Visit in December and get the opportunity to swim with the world's largest fish, the whale shark, which can grow up to 14 metres (46 feet) in length.
• The Quirimbas Archipelago, Bazaruto Archipelago, Tofo and Ponta do Ouro are the top diving destinations in Mozambique.
• Encounter a variety of wildlife on a marine safari, including dolphins, humpback whales and leatherhead, loggerhead and green turtles, as well as the rare dugong (if you're lucky!).

4. Get the Best of Both Worlds with Bush & Beach Holidays

Recently, Mozambique began upgrading and rehabilitating several of its national parks. The most noteworthy of these projects is Gorongosa National Park, the country's flagship conservation area. An off-the-beaten-path safari in Gorongosa offers the opportunity to spot buffalo, elephant, lion, and wild dog, to name a few. After a few days of traversing the beautiful and diverse flagship national park, you can easily head to any of Mozambique's beachside destinations for some rest and relaxation.

Mozambique's location is also ideal to combine with one of Southern or East Africa's top safari destinations – making for the ultimate bush and beach holiday. South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe are within easy reach of Mozambique's mainland destinations and Bazaruto Archipelago. If you're planning a trip to Kenya or Tanzania, the gorgeous islands of the Quirimbas Archipelago are a logistical dream.

Highlights:

• Bazaruto Archipelago, Maputo, Inhambane and Vilanculos are perfectly paired with safaris in Kruger, Hwange, Victoria Falls, Madikwe, South Luangwa and Phinda Private Game Reserve,
• Quirimbas Archipelago pairs well with safaris in the Serengeti or Masai Mara.
• Gorongosa National Park offers a great off-the-beaten-path safari in Mozambique.

5. Immerse Yourself in the Rich Mozambican Culture & History

Every street and building in Mozambique is steeped in history and culture. No matter where you are in the country, be it on one of the idyllic islands or on the mainland, you'll always be in arms reach of a historical or cultural Mozambican treasure. From historical forts and train stations that have stood the test of time to downtown walking tours in Maputo, history and culture buffs alike can immerse themselves in Mozambique's many experiences.

Highlights:

• Take in the sight of a wrecked ship that hasn't sunk into the depths of the ocean at the Macuti Lighthouse and Shipwreck and get up close to a piece of history.
• Hailed as one of the world's most beautiful train stations, Maputo Central Train Station is an impressive piece of architecture and an ode to history. There is also a Rail Museum station inside the building for some insight into the past.
• Fort Sao Sebastian once stood as the protector of the Portuguese trade routes. Today, it stands as a monument to Mozambique's past and is one of the country's most popular attractions.