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Africa Islands

The Islands of Mozambique

By May 6, 2021October 14th, 2022No Comments

Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelago

Offering visitors a true Island escape, the islands off the coast of Mozambique remain a sought-after destination of secluded islands with unspoiled natural beauty. Sunny skies and blue waters, the Archipelagos of Bazaruto and Quirimbas offer the quintessential island getaway. 

The perfect add-on to any safari destination, the islands in the Archipelagos are known for their barefoot luxury combined with phenomenal water sports, exotic cuisine, and unrivaled marine life.

"The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder, forever."

Jacques Yves Cousteau

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a cluster of remote islands lying off the coast of Mozambique in the Indian Ocean. They form part of the Bazaruto National Park protecting endangered and rare marine life including the rare dugong, leatherback turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks in their coral reefs. The unique ecosystems of the Bazaruto Archipelago sustain distinct fauna and flora.

Image courtesy of andBeyond Benguerra Island Lodge

The coral reefs are home to over 2000 fish species making them the ultimate diving and snorkeling site.

The islands include Saint Carolina, Banque, Bengerra, Magaruque, Pansy Shell, and Bazaruto. Exploring the islands you will find immense sand dunes, inland forests, and lakes, a haven of solitude and peace.

Our favorite accommodation includes andBeyond Benguerra Island Lodge, a luxury resort offering lavish thatched accommodation with private wooden decks and rim-flow pools.

The Quirimbas Archipelago is a series of 32 small islands sprinkled along the northern coastline of Mozambique. Renowned as a fishing and diving enthusiasts playground, the islands of the Quirimbas offer so much more. Known for its “undiscovered” appeal, the Quirimbas attract nature lovers as well as history and culture buffs. The islands represent a melting pot of cultures from Africa, Arabia, and the Portuguese, and stories of slavery, piracy, and the ivory trade abound.

The Quirimbas National Park consists of eleven of these islands and was established by the locals to protect the unique environment and marine life. Working hand in hand with tourism, this remarkable initiative has created an eco-friendly destination filled with exciting adventures.

Our favorite destination within the Archipelago is the Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort. Known as the jewel within the Quirimbas, Medjumbe is a small exclusive island resort with reefs and unexplored dive sites, spectacular fishing, and offers intimacy and the ultimate romantic island escape. Direct beach access, private plunge pools and oceanfront decks are designed in luxury Robinson Crusoe style.

With only 12 beach villas, you won’t be remiss in thinking that this is your own private sanctuary.

Image courtesy of Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort

"Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air."

Emerson

The island dream would not be complete without a myriad of activities & experiences to keep you entertained. Snorkeling and diving are both top-rated adventures, venture out into the ocean to explore coral reefs and the vibrant marine life. You may even be lucky enough to share your small piece of the ocean with a pod of dolphins who are curious by nature. Keep a lookout for the rare dugong as well as other rare forms of marine life.

Private cast-away picnics are synonymous with romance. Immerse yourself in island life on your own secluded private sandbank in the middle of nowhere. While away the afternoon enjoying the azure waters, sandy beach, and decadent treats. There are few experiences that are as romantic as hopping on board a traditional dhow and sailing off into the sunset while sipping on champagne.

Conservation is paramount on all the islands and you are invited to witness the protection of a marine world that is magical and enlightening. View leatherback turtles scuttle into the ocean, watch as the humpback whales bring their calves close to the shore, and explore the marine life of the coral reefs.

The culture and history of these magnificent islands are awe-inspiring. Step back in time and visit the forts and museums or choose to immerse yourself in the daily life of the local fishermen as they welcome you into their homes and allow you to have a glimpse into their lives.

An island getaway is a treat for all who venture from the mainland in search of idyllic beaches and beautiful sunsets. Romance can be felt in every moment and every moment is a memory waiting to be created.

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