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Mozambique: The Escapist’s Paradise

MOZAMBIQUE GUIDE #STREETTROTTER

It seems unreal that Mozambique is often overlooked when it comes to tourism in Africa. And we are all guilty for that. Start from yourself and ask: “Would you visit Mozambique?” No one will give you a sure “Yes” on that. By getting just a bit deeper into the magic of this country, we can see just how captivating it all can be… Away from crowded cities and popular tourist resorts, Mozambique may not have its safaris to fill you with the passion for discovering Africa, but it has some of the world’s most amazing beaches and diverse underwater life. This is what makes Mozambique the perfect escape where you can lose yourself, only to truly find yourself.

The Uniqueness of Mozambique: What makes Mozambique so unique, is its diversity. The specific blend of African, Arab and Portuguese culture makes this country stand out from all the other African countries. Another thing that depicts that diversity is that around 40 different languages and dialects are spoken in Mozambique. Since it is a land that is yet to be discovered by tourists, its nature is mostly unspoiled by humans. The newcomer status in the worldly realm of tourism makes it an attractive location for people with high appreciation for untouched nature.

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Exploring the Paradise: Though there are no bright lights and ‘Welcome’ signs pointing to Mozambique’s potential tourist destinations, the number of places that must be seen is rather high. You can stick around at just one location and you will still soak in all the magic of this escapist’s paradise. Still, for a true adventurer, exploring the entire country is a must…

Bazaruto Archipelago

The group of five islands (Bazaruto, Banque, Santa Carolina, Magaruque, Benguera) is surrounded by clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and filled with colorful fish and other underwater beings (dolphins, turtles and dugongs). In the remote corners of Benguera and Bazaruto Island it is possible to see a small population of Nile crocodiles. The bird species are also numerous, and some of the most amazing inhabitants of the archipelago are pink flamingos and fish eagles. The archipelago is the part of country where nature bursts in its most joyful manner. Probably because of the protected status (National Park) and because of its geographical location, it was never desolated by war.

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Quirimbas Archipelago

This archipelago is consisted out of 32 islands located in northern Mozambique. The Quirimbas islands are the right place to experience the diversity of the cultures and turbulent history of Mozambique. Some of them feature colonial-era Portuguese settlements mixed with pre-colonial Swahili settlements. The islands are partly connected with the coast by coral reefs, sand bars and mangroves. Most of the islands are practically uninhabited and have only a few lodges. Though they are not numerous, many of the lodges are simply sublime (especially the one on Vamizi Island which has 13 extravagant rooms).

Niassa Reserve

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Though it cannot compete with safaris in the other African country, Niassa Reserve is the place you should visit when in Mozambique. The largest wildlife population (elephants, sable antelopes, lions, zebras and buffaloes) of Mozambique is inhabited there, but it is difficult to spot the animals. Nevertheless, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the dense bushes and woodlands dotted with massive inselbergs and laced with rivers.

Maputo

Even though Mozambique is the perfect place for a true getaway, visiting its capital, Maputo, is a must. It is, quite easily, one of Africa’s most attractive capitals. Maputo is the best developed city in entire Mozambique, so if you start missing some commodities, such as restaurants, hotels, sidewalk cafes, well-supplied supermarkets and vivid cultural scene, it is the perfect place to meet your needs.

The city is a mixture of Portuguese buildings with graceful balconies and Marxist-style apartment blocks. Along the seaside you can see a completely different image of fishermen living their peaceful lives. Finding accommodation in Mozambique’s capital can be rather difficult. This is why it is advisable to plan your stay well in advance. The best way to do that is with the use of numerous real estate websites.

Being Adventurous: By now, you are probably aware that there are a lot of things to see in Mozambique, but the question remains: What to do? Here are some suggestions.

Diving and Snorkeling

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Because of the incredible richness of the underwater world, Mozambique is the perfect destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts and professionals. Some of the best locations for diving are San Sebastian (peninsula near Bazaruto Archipelago) and Two Mile Reef (Bazaruto Archipelago).

Surfing

Mozambique is slowly rising to the very top of surfing destinations. Indubitably the best surfing spot in the country is Tofinho at Tofo famous for its variety of waves and warm water. World class surfing can be experienced in Ponta du Ouro, which is not only perfect for surfing, but it is also one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.

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Or Do Nothing at All: Lie back on the warm sand, feel the aroma of the salty water tickling your senses, relax and enjoy. on an ending note, words cannot describe the beauty of Mozambique and make you decide to experience it by yourself, but if you do, you will surely remain speechless at the sight of this marvelous destination.


About the author: Oliver is an experienced business consultant from the UK. His job allows him to travel, which also happens to be one of his greatest passions. You can follow his adventures on Twitter.

STREETTROTTER

StreetTrotter is a Travel, Culture & Lifestyle blog, inspiring people everyday with real stories to look good and travel even better. Founded in 2012 by Shraddha Gupta, Founder & COO, this space is all about experiencing new things in life, be it a daring mountain trek, a frugal backpacking trip, a runway look made local, or simply anything that scares you enough to live a little more deeper.

  1. Wow! It totally sounds like my kinda place to visit. I dig islands and these group of islands that are mentioned sound amazing! I would love to start my island trip by visiting Vamizi Island first because it sounds the most exciting. Lovely underwater picture. 🙂

  2. I have not yet visited Africa, and after reading this Mozambique is definitely up for consideration as a top first-choice. Mainly because I like the remoteness you describe and the fact that it’s still not yet completely inundated with tourists. It’s also close enough to SA that I can use it as a launch point to visit the vineyards down South :). The snorkeling also looks nice — that’s a big selling point for me. How was the visibility and the sea life you saw?

    Greig

  3. Marica says:

    Mozambique is on my bucket list, I love travelling in Africa! Thank you for this very interesting post! If you do not mind I have reblogged it 😀
    Ciao
    Marica

  4. Pingback:Mozambique, The Escapist Dream | Travel & Lifestyle

  5. Maria says:

    The flamingos look lovely… so nice to know there is great marine lie out here. Also nice that right now its not crowded with tourists so a must visit.

  6. Pingback:Discover 5 of Africa’s Most Alluring Indian Ocean Islands [Guest Post] - The traveling anthropologist

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