An included beautiful light aircraft flight over the islands and turquoise waters transfers you from Pemba International Airport to Ibo Island Lodge.
Probably the most compelling attraction in the Quirimbas, Ibo’s 200-year-old ghost town and 16th Century forts make for a fascinating journey to an era long forgotten. The Ibo Island guided Experience (included) provides a chance to interact with the amazingly friendly local people and observe their unique island culture and heritage and a way of life that has not changed for hundreds of years. Wander around the mysterious ruins amongst forts and ancient trade buildings with many fascinating stories just waiting to be told. Ibo Island lodge has spectacular views over the waterfront and tidal bay and accommodates guests in beautifully simple yet elegant rooms. Historic colonial mansions with high ceilings have been stylishly renovated to accommodate the lodge with various verandas, tropical gardens and a spectacular roof top restaurant that provides the ideal venue to watch the sun go down. The emphasis at Ibo Island Lodge is a mix between guided activities and relaxation and a base from which to explore fascinating Ibo Island.
Guests will have ample time at magical Ibo to explore after the dhow safari as the safari returns to Ibo for days 6 and 7 of the itinerary

Overnight Lodge.

Depart Ilha Do Ibo for your exploration into the Quirimbas Archipelago! You can either choose to stay aboard your dhow supported by crew with all camping equipment and supplies or kayak into the clearest of blue waters. The Quirimbas Archipelago offers a diverse and wonderland of sea kayaking experiences.
The ancient art of traditional dhow travel has been practiced in this region for centuries. Today it still remains the only way of travel between the islands and the last sailing trading dhow came to this part of Mozambique from India in 1969! Turquoise clear waters and beautiful scenery awaits you – as well as a host of local fishermen to meet and interact with along the way.
The islands are well spaced and allow for excellent kayaking, dhow cruising, snorkeling, swimming and exploring. The entire archipelago is tide dependent and so your routing will be carefully worked out based on local knowledge and weather and tide conditions.
The Matemo River mouth beckons and it is here where fascinating rural fishing villages dot the shore.
Camp on the beach in the open Mozambique bush south of Ulumbwa.

Overnight camping

DAY TRIP TO ULUMBWA ISLAND

The beautiful Ulumbwa river mouth beckons and it is here where fascinating rural fishing villages dot the shore. Enjoy an early morning sail up the Ulumbwa estuary viewing a variety of birds & mangroves that thrive in this area.
We return to our beautiful beach camp set up under the palms on the shores of Matemo Island with enough time to explore Matemo, take a walk or swim.

Overnight camping

Depart Matemo Island for your exploration south into the Quirimbas Archipelago! Once you reach Quirimba Island you will explore the island that gave the Archipelago its name with its rural villages, culture and old church. Day trip by dhow to Quisiva Island or similar and/or Mefunvo Island from camp..

Overnight: camp and exploring on Quirimba Island and its surroundings

You will continue your adventure on the turquoise water to head Ihla Do Ibo and your accommodation.

From our lodge it is perfect to start to explore the Quirimbas Archipelago National Park in Northern Mozambique. Steeped in history, rich in culture and nominated as a potential World Heritage Site, the island dates back to the early 1600’s, making it one of the most ancient settlements in Mozambique. Since its role as one of the country’s mighty trading centres, This historical place has remained all but forgotten to the outside world for almost a century. Today you can wander around the mysterious town amongst forts and ancient romantic buildings with many fascinating stories just waiting to be retold.
However there is much more than historical significance. This island is one of the most pristine destinations in Africa. The warm turquoise waters are inhabited by turtles and tropical fish; viewings of dolphins and whales are frequent whilst the bird life is abundant and varied. You will encounter idyllic beaches and explore rich coral reefs.

The lodge where you will be staying has prime, spectacular views over the waterfront and accommodates guests in beautifully yet simple decorated rooms. Historic colonial mansions with high ceilings have been stylishly renovated to accommodate the lodge with various verandas, tropical gardens and a spectacular roof top restaurant that provides the ideal venue to watch the sun go down. The emphasis at the lodge is on complete relaxation and a base from which to explore the magical places.

You will get the chance to immerse yourself in this unchanged, ancient culture and have the chance to interact with wonderfully hospitable islanders, or simply relax at one of the pools, refresh the senses with a massage and soak up the exotic atmosphere.

Overnight Lodge

An included beautiful light aircraft flight over the islands and turquoise waters transfers you to Pemba International Airport.

Please note whilst on expedition all camping will be bush or island camping with no facilities what so ever. Washing water will be limited, and meals simple and nutritious based on the dry stocks able to be carried and the availability of fresh fish and seafood. The itinerary will need to be totally flexible and is weather and tide dependent. You are however assured of adventure against a backdrop of varied and pristine scenery. Services of an English speaking crew member and Mozambican dhow crew.