Stay : The North, lagoon colours: Pemba, Ibo and the Quirimbas archipelago
In northern Mozambique, Pemba is a port city, located on a peninsula, with one of the largest natural bays in the world after Diego Suarez in Madagascar and Rio in Brazil. Its dream beaches attract tourists from all over the world. It is also a starting point for the Quirimbas archipelago, which is wilder and much less visited than the Bazaruto archipelago, located further south. A series of heavenly islands like Robinson Crusoe extend 250 kilometres to the north. The island of Ibo is one of the largest and oldest colonial cities in the country. It is also the most accessible for small budgets. Some say that it is the miniature replica of the island of Mozambique, less known, more distant, less touristic... But just as captivating and... much more peaceful. You will love its insular atmosphere and the warm contact with the local population.
Summary of the stay
Best time to go
6 days
€€ - Charm and comfort
Detail of the stay : The North, lagoon colours: Pemba, Ibo and the Quirimbas archipelago - 6 days
Day 1: Arrival in Pemba
By road, take 5 hours of travel from Nampula. There are also domestic flights from Maputo or Nampula, as well as direct flights from Johannesburg or Dar-Es-Salam. The city is worth looking at it before going on a beach. The city centre is situated in height, and you can admire its Portuguese colonial architecture and observe the fishermen's alleys.
Day 2: Snorkeling, scuba diving or kitesurfing
In addition to corals and abundant fish of all colours, the seabed of Pemba and its surroundings is also famous for turtles, dolphins, seasonal humpback whale migration and the famous dugongs (elephant seals). There are a dozen different spots between 10 and 40 meters. Whatever your experience, or simply with a mask and snorkel, you will enjoy yourself. To do this, go to Pieters' Place. Very professional, it will not put you at risk and all its equipment is in very good condition. Kitesurfers will find their happiness on Murrebue beach, located about 20 minutes by car from Pemba.
Day 3: Sailing to Ibo Island
Steps: Ibo
If you have time, and you don't feel seasick, take the boat trip, it's in itself an invitation to dream (count 10-12 hours). You can contact the Kaskazini agency in Pemba. Departure from Pemba every Saturday morning (until 3pm) depending on the tides, return on Wednesday. On the island of Ibo you will have the choice between two luxurious lodges and some pensions
Day 4: Ibo Island, land side
Steps: Ibo
Here time has stopped. Vegetation has regained its rights and is now dressing the ruined colonial houses next to the houses inhabited by the local population. Stroll through the alleys and accept to be accompanied by a local guide who, for a few pieces, will tell you the story of his island. The fortress "St Joao Batista", built in 1791, offers a unique panorama. You can also visit traditional silversmiths' shops or... crab hunting in the mangrove swamp.
JOÃO BAPTISTA
Day 5: Ibo Island, sea side
Possibility of boat excursions to reach one of the surrounding deserted beaches.
Day 6: Back to Pemba
Steps: Ibo
Contact the Cinco Portas hotel on the island of Ibo to organize your return. Departure from Ibo every Wednesday morning. Cinco Portas is also a 14 m long, comfortable and safe eponymous boat, responsible for supplying several islands in the south of the Quirimbas archipelago.
Ideas for holidays and week-end breaks Ibo
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Find a hotel
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Car Rental
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-5% on travel insurance-15% off travel insurance
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Find a local agency
