Ever set foot in a place so ruggedly beautiful and remote that you feel as if you've stumbled across a new part of the world? Sounds almost too special to be true, right? Well pinch yourself, because in Mozambique you're not dreaming. That's right, this gorgeous destination is back and it's bigger and better than ever before. With stunning lodges now available in the north and south, Mozambique offers the perfect beach add-on to any safari holiday in Tanzania or South Africa. Don't fancy big game spotting? Let's head straight for the beaches.
Northern Mozambique, a remote paradise made up of 27 islands known as the Quirimbas Archipelago, is one of Africa's truly undiscovered treasures. Easily accessible from Tanzania, it's the perfect place to chill out after an adrenalin pumping safari. We love the ancient and remote Ibo island with its intriguing history that will definitely tick the cultural box on your list of holiday must haves. You'll spend days kayaking, diving, swimming, fishing or taking private dhow safaris. When night falls, settle in for romantic tête à tête dinners on deserted stretches of beach or your roof top terrace. Staying in mansions over 100 years old you'll soak up the wonderful mix of modern rustic luxury with original features as you kick back and feel your worries drift away.
If you can't get enough of wildlife then you have to try Vamizi Island where you'll sleep in luxury palm-thatched beach villas facing the Indian Ocean. The lodge faces out across a white beach and is set against a backdrop of tropical forest - we guarantee you'll feel a million miles from home. Here the marine life is booming with 350 species of fish, untouched corals and 16 different dive sites, while the forest is a haven for Samango monkeys who climb through the trees and little sandy coves where Giant Coconut crabs and turtles make their homes.
Just finishing up a safari in South Africa? You'd be crazy to head home without hopping over to the Bazaruto Archipelago for a couple of days. Just off the coast of Southern Mozambique (only a twenty minute boat ride from Vilanculos), the three main islands sit peacefully within a national marine park. Pristine white beaches, palms, milk wood trees, sand dunes, forests, lakes, and crystal waters all combine to form a completely magical escape - it just doesn't get more beautifully tropical than this. Staying at Marlin lodge you'll have your very own beach chalet with private deck area - a few small steps and you're on the beach.
This idyllic dreamland is quickly overtaking the Seychelles as a top beach destination. With miles of white sand and some of the best diving around (think reefs so multi-coloured you'll wish your Oakley's were a wetsuit accessory) it's really got it all. Whether you're after an add-on to your safari or simply an escape from the city, Mozambique has everything: total luxury, endless activities and a peaceful tranquillity that envelops you as soon as your feet touch the sand. Oh and did we mention that it's breathtakingly beautiful? Yup, some places really do have it all.
