Northern Mozambique Safari
Northern Mozambique safari lets you explore Northern Mozambique. This region in Mozambique is almost untouched by tourists. It is a remote and beautiful paradise. The northern Mozambique safari allows you to tour the Quirimbas Archipelago. This has a collection of 27 islands between Pemba and the Rio Rovuma. This is the river that forms Mozambique’s border with Tanzania. This area remains one of the last undiscovered jewels of Africa. This is an African diving safari tour to Mozambique. Northern Mozambique safari will let you go on discovery. You’ll discover some of the most exciting and undiscovered dive sites. They are not comparable to any other anywhere on the planet
Day 1: Maputo
You will be met on arrival at the airport in Maputo. Our Mozambique safari rep will brief you on the northern Mozambique safari. This is before you enjoy a transfer to your hotel in Maputo. You can take your time to explore the capital of Mozambique. This is for those who arrived early on this northern Mozambique safari. Overnight will be at your hotel booked on bed and breakfast basis.
Days 2 – 3: Mozambique – Pemba
You will begin your day on northern Mozambique safari with breakfast. This morning you will be transferred to the airport. This will be in time for your flight to Pemba. Our driver guide will meet you on arrival. You will then be transferred to the Nautilus Hotel complex. This is situated right on the wonderful ‘Wimbe’ beach. A PADI dive school and other water sports are available at the hotel. The reef is within striking distance of Pemba’s perfect beach. This allows for safe swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and diving. Your hotel has a number of air-conditioned, sea- facing, thatched bungalows. The bungalows have 2 bedrooms each with a shared bathroom. You will spend the rest of the days at leisure to enjoy the beach. You can explore Pemba or partake in optional water sports or dives. Your accommodation is on bed and breakfast.
It is important to note that Pemba is a developing tourism destination. This forms part of the charm of Mozambique and this undiscovered region. However, facilities are therefore basic.
Day 4 – 6: Ibo Island
Your northern Mozambique safari will head to the mysterious and historical Ibo Island. You will cross over directly to Ibo Island. This is via a motorized boat from Pemba bay. The timing of this is dependent on the prevailing weather conditions. As an alternatively, you may travel north by car. This drive goes through awesome thick pristine bush and villages. You will be destined for the coastal village of Quissanga. Here you board traditional dhows bound for Ibo Island. You will camp at the Wildlife Adventures private waterfront camp.
Your camp is situated on the waterfront. It has warm showers and is very close to the main fort. Your northern Mozambique safari can explore an ancient island. Here Muslim traders operated in the 15th century. This was before it became a major slave market and trading post for the Portuguese. There are historic buildings, 3 forts, and a beautiful old Catholic Church to-date.
Ibo provides a chance to interact with the amazing island people. Here your northern Mozambique safari observes the unique island culture. Traditional silversmiths still operate from the main fort. You are free to wander about this beautiful island and explore.
You will enjoy dives in the waters surrounding historic Ibo. Optional activities include dives, crab and fishing expeditions. You can also have mangrove excursions, snorkeling, swimming, and historical dhow cruises. All your meals and camping accommodation is on full board basis.
Day 7 – 9: Island Hopping in the archipelago
Days on northern Mozambique safari will be spent island hoping. Climb aboard the 17th meter teak motorized boat. This will take you for a dive safari exploring the islands and coral coast around Ibo. You’ll travel through Mangroves tree’s as you step back in time. Take time to observe a way of life that has not changed for thousands of years. There will be local fishermen catching prawns and giant Crabs here. Brilliant bird life exists with Storks, Egrets and Herons roosting in the mangrove trees. Excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities are available. You can enjoy the great beaches here. There is a chance to travel and explore the remote coral coast surrounding Ibo.
There will be 5 included dives during these days. Your northern Mozambique safari itinerary will be kept flexible. This is to conform to the weather conditions. Overnight accommodation will be beach camps set up on various islands. This is to allow you to camp out on the beach and savor your days unique diving. The fishing during these days is always a highlight. Expect to catch large game fish like Tuna and Kingfish. Expect to see all coral reef species typical of the Indian Ocean region. Game fish will be the feature. You will see Yellow Fin, Tuna, Dogtooth Tuna, Marlin and Manta Rays. There are also the 6 species of shark available here. Huge schools of feeding Barracuda, King fish and red Snappers are here. There are also green and Hawksbill Turtles and the seasonal hump backed Whales.
Day 10: Maputo
This is the last day of your northern Mozambique safari. You will have the morning at leisure before being transferred to Maputo. You will be in time for your departure flight back home.