Inhambane Province
Inhambane Province is rich in history and culture. It is one of the oldest villages and was once a significant port on the east coast, frequented by explorer, Vasco de Gama. It is famous for offering some of the best snorkelling locations in Mozambique, while Barra Reef is known to offer remarkable diving as well as delicious and fresh seafood.
Inhambane Province Highlights
The Inhambane Province is situated on the east coast in the southern region of Mozambique; the capital being Inhambane town; once a significant port and one of the oldest villages on the east coast. Inhambane is famous for its music and the extensive Inhambane coastline that offers the ideal location for a beach holiday. Exceptional diving at Barra Reef is renowned in the area, as well as mouth-watering seafood fresh from the ocean.
The area has some of the best snorkelling spots in Mozambique, beautiful white sandy beaches and secluded coves. Sailing in a traditional dhow is a highlight here. Inhambane is also famous for offering visitors the opportunity to swim alongside whale-sharks, which is an unforgettable experience.
The area is rich in history and culture. In the late 1400s Vasco da Gama stopped in the beautiful bay of Inhambane to stock up on supplies and he was very impressed with the place and named it Terra de Boa Gente or 'Land of the Gentle People'.
The towns of Vilankulo and Inhambane are beautiful and alluring, and the most popular tourist destinations in Inhambane Province. It has one of the largest working fleets of dhows on the coast.
The province is the second largest grower of cashews, and also produces coconut and citrus fruit. In the early days, circa 1200s, the local Tonga people harvested and manufactured cotton.
This coastline is home to the rare dugong; a marine herbivore currently being protected from extinction. Diving with the large sea mammals in the area is mesmerising.
In the late 15th century, Vasco de Gama pulled into Inhambane to replenish supplies and to explore the land. He took an immediate liking to Inhambane and named it Terra de Boa Gente or 'Land of the Good People'.
Barra Lodge is an ideal family resort, built in a scenic location with magnificent ocean views and the deep-blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Barra Lodge is bordered by the Inhambane Estuary and offers a haven for water-sport enthusiasts.
Flamingo Bay Water Lodge offers a unique location situated in the beautiful tidal bay of Inhambane. Accommodation is luxurious in the form of chalets built on stilts and situated in the crystal clear waters of Inhambane Bay.
Vila Do Paraiso is a tropical paradise getaway in the coastal town of Vilankulo in Mozambique. Vila Do Paraiso resort offers numerous ocean and land-based activities to entertain guests, while accommodating in style with luxury villas right on Mahaque Beach.
Pomene Bay Lodge is secluded and offers pristine and untouched environment. It 605km north of Maputo and 170km south of Vilanculos and offers beautiful water chalets situated on the mangrove estuary.
How to Get There
Most flights into Mozambique land in the largest and capital city, Maputo. Maputo International Airport receives regular flights from South Africa, however, should guests be adding Mozambique as a destination after an East Africa safari, there are private charter flights available from Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Nairobi in Kenya.
There are also direct flights from South Africa to the Bazaruto Archipelago in the centre of Mozambique and the Quirimbas Archipelago in the far north. Sun Safaris will arrange whichever flights into the country best suit guests' itineraries.
Self-driving from South Africa to Mozambique is an option and is often an option for local holiday-makers. The road from Johannesburg, via Nelspruit, to Mozambique is in good condition and well-tarred. Should guests be flying to their destination, Sun Safaris will arrange for light air or road transfers from Maputo to booked accommodation.
Inhambane Province Activities
The Inhambane Province is famous for its endless white sandy beaches and offering some of the best game fishing in Mozambique. Boat trips can be arranged with an experienced skipper, who will take guests along the coast and to various beautiful locations. For fly fishing enthusiasts, deep-sea outings can be arranged. Some of the resorts are Padi affiliated dive resorts and the diving is world class.
Other activities include snorkelling, spear fishing, catamaran cruises, quad bike trails, horse riding, sailing, Hobie-cats, laser and dingy sailing, as well as paddle and snake skis. There are many family-friendly resorts in the area that are geared for families with children and offer all the necessary facilities to make your family holiday as comfortable as possible.
Visiting the historical city of Inhambane is an eye-opening and interesting experience. The 170 year old Cathedral of our Lady of Conception can be visited via an old ladder that climbs to the top of the spire offering superb views of the city and harbour.
