Quirimbas Archipelago and Gorongosa National Park

This combination package is a mix of the best beach and bush destinations that northern Mozambique has to offer, with a few culturally significant ingredients thrown in for good measure. First island hop around the Quirimbas Archipelago on a dhow sailing / kayaking tour, and then fly inland to Gorongosa National Park for a truly unique safari experience.

Quirimbas Archipelago and Gorongosa National Park – 10 nights / 11 days

Day 1 and 2 – The Arrival and Mogundula Island:

You arrive at Johannesburg International Airport and catch a connecting flight to Pemba Airport, where you will be met and shown to your transfer vehicle for the approximate 3 hour road transfer to Mucojo. Upon arrival in Mucojo you will take a dhow transfer to Mogundula Island. Mogundula Island is one of the best islands in the Quirimbas Archipelago which is why you will spend 2 nights here giving you a fantastic base from which to explore. Known by the locals as the island with the sacred lake it provides beautiful bird watching opportunities, pristine swimming off the sandbank beach and excellent snorkelling.

Day 3 – Mogundula Island to Ulumbwa:

Sail into the clearest of blue water with pristine corals below to explore under snorkel. The Ulumbwa river mouth beckons and it is here where fascinating rural fishing villages dot the shore.

Day 4 and 5 – Day trip to Matemo Island:

Turquoise clear waters and beautiful scenery awaits you en route, but before enjoy an early morning sail up the Ulumbwa estuary viewing a variety of birds & mangroves that thrive in this area. In the afternoon, take a tour through this fishing village getting to know the ways of these fisher folk as interpreted by your knowledgeable guide. You will visit the southern tip of Matemo Island and explore this part of the island and return to camp at Ulumbwa.

Day 6 – Ibo Island:

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. Historic colonial mansions with high ceilings have been stylishly renovated to accommodate Ibo Island 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 on complete relaxation and a base from which to explore this fascinating island.

Day 7 – To Gorongosa National Park

After a final breakfast at Ibo Island Lodge its time to head for Gorongosa National Park. First you will transfer by light aircraft to Pemba Airport, and then catch a flight to Beira. From Beira Airport it is a 2 hour road transfer to Gorongosa National Park, and Chitengo Camp, where you will be staying in a double chalet for four nights.

Day 8 to 10– Gorongosa National Park:

Enjoy 2 days of safari in Gorongosa National Park in an open safari vehicle. All safaris are lead by professional guides who are happy to share their knowledge about this unique wilderness. You will also get the chance to journey up Mount Gorongosa with professional guides. Stop along the way at Punda Maria for a cultural visit.

Day 11 – The Return Journey

After a final breakfast it is time to start the return journey, with a transfer back to Beira. Our service ends here, and we hope that you had an amazing time at Gorongosa National Park.