Quirimbas Archipelago - Mozambique (Southern Africa)

The stunning Quirimbas Archipelago is a marvelling string of 32 pristine Indian Ocean Islands, formidably nestled on the northern coast of Mozambique. The Quirimbas National Park, a protected area in the Cabo Delgado Province of Mozambique, just north of Pemba, encompasses 11 of these 32 Islands. Established in 2002, the park covers an area of 110 kilometres (68 ml), and experiences an essentially tropical climate, with a rainy season spanning December to April, and a drier but cooler season from May to September.

The Quirimbas National Park is the largest marine protected area in the African continent; and is home to unspoiled coral reefs, five species of turtles, calving humpback whales and grazing dugongs. The 11 Quirimbas Archipelago Islands within the park extend right through to Tanzania in East Africa. Part of the tourism vision for this region is to establish high-standard and ecologically low impact resorts, alongside viable and culturally thriving communities. This has resulted in a beguiling eco-rich destination, graced by warm sea water, unblemished coral reefs, splendid white sandy beaches, astounding wildlife, and a wealth of history and culture.

The park is enriched by 750,639 hectares (1,854,870 acres) of coastal forest, mangroves and coral reefs. Further inland can be found vast populations of elephants, lions, leopards, crocodiles and even wild dogs. Habitats include mountains, forests, woodland, savannah, mangroves, beaches, coral reefs and sea grass beds.

The park contains a wealthy variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dugongs and many species of fish. 375 species of fish have been identified there, among which are, the threatened pipefish and seahorses. The most compelling islands in the area include; Ibo Island, Medjumbe Island, Mefunvo Island, Metemo Island, Quilalea Island, Quirimba Island, Quisiva Island, Tavari Island and Vamizi Island.

Ibo Island boasts a colourful and captivating long history, as partly testified by it numerous historical buildings. The atmosphere at Ibo Island is uniquely romantic, with its rich multi-cultural legacy, and pristine white sandy beaches within easy rich.

Matemo Island is a wonderful palm tree paradise, flanked by alluring beaches.

Medjumbe Island is a wonderland for a visitor who values the gift of exclusivity. This eco-gem is graced by pristine beaches and unspoiled coral reefs.

Most of these Islands can be accessed by charter flights.