Dhow & Kayak Island Safari

Explore a coastline fringed by tropical islands in a traditional Arab dhow on this unique mobile safari. Sea kayak or sail up wide coastal river mouths teeming with bird species and pristine mangrove forests. Snorkel off deserted white sandbanks and into turquoise sea, and sleep for three nights in comfortable eco camps on uninhabited tropical islands. The safari ends at the mystical and ancient Ibo Island with two nights at the luxury lodge.

Explore a coastline fringed by tropical islands in a traditional Arab dhow on this unique mobile safari. Sea kayak or sail up wide coastal river mouths teeming with bird species and pristine mangrove forests. Snorkel off deserted white sandbanks and into turquoise sea, and sleep for three nights in comfortable eco camps on uninhabited tropical islands. The safari ends at the mystical and ancient Ibo Island with two nights at the luxury lodge.

The white beaches and protected coral reefs of the relatively unknown Quirimbas Archipelago, off the coast of Northern Mozambique, are still very untouched, but rapidly becoming the ‘hottest’ new destination. With history and ancient culture, combined with crystal clear azure waters, abundance of marine life – a diving, deep sea fishing and snorkelling paradise – and boutique accommodation, it makes this region a very special place. Inhambane, a photographers dream with its old architecture, fascinating mix of African, old-world Portuguese and Muslim cultures and colourful markets, is located in southern Mozambique, and one of the oldest settlements. Together with deserted beaches, clear tropical water and palm trees, you will find a wonderful holiday destination.

Day 1: Pemba – Mogundula Island

You will be met off your flight at Pemba airport by Oscar Soares, our meet & greet representative, and shown to the transfer vehicle for the approximate 3-hour road transfer to Mucojo through parts of the Quirimbas National Park and arriving at the little coastal village where you will board a traditional dhow bound for Mogundula Island. The ancient art of traditional dhow travel has been practiced in this region for centuries. Today for the local population of the region it still remains the only way of travel between the islands. In our opinion, Mogundula Island is one of the prettiest and uninhabited islands in the archipelago which is why we spend our first 2 nights here giving you a fantastic base from which to explore the area. On Mogundula we usually set up our mobile eco camp under the shade of the islands beautiful Chestnut trees. Your guide and crew will offer you cold drinks and settle you in to your tents and no doubt you will be keen to hit the beach for a swim and explore. The very essence of our tailor made mobile safaris is that we carry everything we need, allowing us to be flexible in our itinerary and eco camps. We also leave no trace of our existence after the safari is over. Aside from at Ibo Island Lodge, there are no fixed facilities what so ever on safari, and many of our eco camps are uninhabited or habited only by migrant local and rural communities. Please note that our eco camps are comfortable, but they are not 5 star luxury! Overnight mobile eco camp on Mogundula Island. (D)

Day 2: Mogundula Island and surrounds

The 32 islands that make up the Quirimbas Archipelago are among the most undiscovered islands in the world. The Quirimbas also remains one of Africa’s most sought after cultural destinations and in our opinion, have that ‘wow factor’ that makes it quite simply, the most exciting hot new destination in Africa. The establishment of the 7,500 km2 Quirimbas National Park represents a globally significant conservation achievement. This park is a conservation jewel, boasting an exciting mosaic of wildlife, and helping protect one of the richest areas of coral reefs in the world as well as a rich array of coastal forests and mangroves. At Mogundula, we carry you beyond the reach of holiday crowds to sights and experiences few have seen. Exotic, little hideaway’s offer intimate bays to explore. The sand spit beach offers sublime swimming and snorkeling at all times of the tide, and don’t forget to explore the lake and look out for a good range of bird life. Overnight mobile eco camp on Mogundula Island. (BLD)

Day 3: Mogundula Island, via Rolas Island - Ulumbwa River mouth

Today will have you climbing aboard your dhow accompanied by your trusty guide and crew, carrying all mobile camp equipment and supplies. Depart Mogundula Island for your exploration into the Quirimbas Archipelago! Sail south into the clearest of blue water with pristine corals below to explore under snorkel. Generally our dhow safaris are skippered by Juma Chande and his crew. Juma is one of our most experienced dhow captains. He is unflappable and has been navigating these waters since he was a small boy. For the sailors amongst you there is nothing more majestic than sailing in a graceful traditional dhow at full tilt with the wind in your hair and the sails up and the clear waters below. Dependent on conditions – we’ll stop at the tiny Rolas Island and its clear waters with excellent reefs to snorkel and a stunning white sandy peninsular to swim from. Local legend says the island is owned by the sacred, resident coconut crabs, the largest species of land crabs. We’ll set up our camp on the beach south of Ulumbwa village after a few hours sail and exploring. Accommodation: Overnight mobile eco camp at Ulumbwa beach. (BLD)

Day 4: Ulumbwa to Ibo Island and Ibo Island Lodge

Probably the most compelling attraction in the Quirimbas, Ibo Island and her 200-year-old ghost town and 15th Century forts make for a fascinating journey to an era long forgotten. Ibo has been described as one of the most unique and magical islands in the world and is the perfect place to explore the culture and heritage of the Quirimbas. Once Mozambique’s mighty trading centre, Ibo Island has remained almost cut off to the outside world for almost a century. The island today is steeped in history and rich in culture and it has been nominated as a potential World Heritage Site. (BLD)

Day 5: Ibo Island Lodge

You can be as active or as relaxed as you desire. There are included guided heritage and cultural experiences each day with your guide, as well as a full range of other activity options – and don’t forget to relax at one of the pools, take a massage and soak up the unique atmosphere that is Ibo. All meals are included. Drinks to own account. Ibo Island Lodge Guest Experiences: Guests partake in a multitude of experiences in combination with relaxing and taking in the islands tranquility, history and ambience: The lodge is famous for its cultural and heritage guided experiences as well as its very fine birding and guided bird walks. Aside from history and culture and guided activities, there are also daily excursions to a pristine sand bank beach for a totally unique beach experience guided night time walks, swimming and sunbathing, massage and snorkeling. (BLD)

Day 6: Ibo Island to Pemba

A beautiful light aircraft flight over the islands and turquoise waters transfers you to Pemba International Airport from Ibo Island Lodge. (B)

Inclusions:

• Five nights accommodation (three nights pristine island hopping by traditional motorised dhow and two nights at beautiful Ibo Island Lodge)
• All meals
• Meet and greet in Pemba
• Experienced English and Portuguese speaking crew
• Fully catered eco and non participation mobile camp with guide, chef and local crew
• Snorkelling and swimming usually in seclusion
• All camping and catering equipment
• Guided historical and cultural tours
• Transfers
• Light aircraft transfer from Ibo Island back to Pemba

Prices based on 3 - 4 people travelling together.