Quirimbas and Pemba, Mozambique

Contact a specialist about Quirimbas and Pemba, Mozambique

The lasting memories of my trip to Mozambique will be the friendliness of the people, the incredible scenery and the deep blue ocean. I can't wait to go back.

• Gregory Fox
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Situated 250km from the Tanzanian border lies the capital city of the Cabo Delgado province Pemba. Lost in the midst of time, Northern Mozambique is one of Africa's last remaining undeveloped wildernesses. This un-spoilt coastline has existed in splendid isolation for centuries. The Arab influence is still heavily present in the vibrant cities such as Pemba and Nacala from the architecture to local cuisine. The local bazaars and open air markets or Souk as they are known provide an interesting day out with large varieties of local arts and crafts on offer with traditional silverware and wood carvings being of particular interest.

The city of Pemba lies in Pemba Bay which is thought to be the largest inland bay in the world. From an opening of around 2km wide the bay of Pemba extends into and, area of water roughly 375km². Pemba is also renowned as being a prime destination for water sport and diving enthusiasts as the coral reefs lie close to the shoreline. The abundant fishing waters at St Lazarus Banks are also within easy reach. There are many pristine, white beaches along the coast, including the famous Wimbe beach just to the north of Pemba. Flights are now available into Pemba from Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, Nairobi in Kenya, Johannesburg in South Africa and Maputo in Mozambique.

The Quirimbas Archipelago consists of 32 coral islands stretching from Pemba (the capital of Cabo Delgado Province) to the Rovuma River, which forms the natural frontier between Tanzania and Mozambique. The area has never been developed and remains an unexplored tourist paradise. Its reef systems, species diversity and crystal waters have drawn comparisons to the Great Barrier Reef and offer some of the greatest diving and fishing experiences our planet has to offer. Our favourite lodges in the Quirmbas include Vamizi Island Lodge, Quililea and Medjumbe Private Island. We will customise an itinerary for you to Mozambique but for a sample holiday have a look at our 7 night Mozambique Beach Holiday – Pemba and the Quirmbas. Should you wish to combine safari with your stay in Pemba and the Quirimbas we would suggest a Southern Circuit Safari in Tanzania. Flights from Dar es Salaam to Pemba ensure this is an easy combination.

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