The Quirimbas Archipelago in Mozambique’s far north is a beautiful and remote area – it’s the last stretch of the East African coastline where marine environments and beaches are ecologically pristine and largely unexplored. Lying just offshore and stretching for 62 miles, the Quirimbas Archipelago consists of 12 major islands; about 20 smaller, coralline outcrops; and endless sandbar beaches. As a safeguard for the future, The Quirimbas National Park protects a large part of the archipelago’s southern side.
These sun-drenched tropical islands contain some of the richest coral reefs in the world and provide an unparalleled environment for an abundant array of marine life. The Quirimbas Archipelago consists of a grand total of 32 tropical coral islands that stretch all the way from Pemba to the Rovuma River, which happens to form the natural frontier between Tanzania and Mozambique.
Some of the Quirimbas islands in the south include miles of enchanted forest in the Quirimbas National Park. The park itself was established a short while ago, only in 2002, to sustain the precious Mozambique natural environment. Feeding and nesting grounds for the park’s sea turtles, dugong, dolphins, sharks and whales are found here.
The Quirimbas Islands are known for having enormous cultural and historical value among a melting pot of Arabian, Portuguese, and African influences. Coral reefs and magnificent old fortresses enhance the fascinating history of Ibo Island. With its prime location off the East African coast, the island became a significant trading post for gold, silver and ivory between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries. Today, visitors can watch silversmiths hand-fashion intricate silver jewelry as they have for generations.
There are several luxury resorts located at Quirimbas Archipelago.
Pemba Beach Hotel & Spa is a romantic gateway where Swahili Africa meets Arabia on these magical shorelines that feature a world-class destination and Arabian-inspired buildings, colonnades, turrets, and archways.
Arriving at Pemba, guests are ushered into an exotic realm in an ancient land, representing a fusion of Arabic and African-inspired influences. You are spoiled for choice with accommodation at Pemba Beach Hotel, its 102 rooms, all with sea views and individual balconies, providing a truly sumptuous rendition of Mozambique east coast living. The Indian Ocean fills the view from your room, while inside you find a haven of rich furnishings, Persian rugs and marble-clad bathrooms. All rooms are air-conditioned and contain en-suite bathroom with bath and shower, mini-bar, satellite TV, direct dial telephone, coffee and tea-making facilities and electronic safe.
By day, the many options include lazing around the infinity pool or taking a short walk to the buzzing Clube Naval, with its own swimming pool and adjacent yacht marina. Here, the Activity Centre has all the sports your heart desires – deep sea fishing for kingfish, sailfish, marlin or barracuda, diving off coral reefs, snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking or water-skiing. Fitness enthusiasts can sweat it out in the well-equipped gym or on the floodlit tennis courts. At night, enjoy the tropical heat as you view the African sunset from the Niassa Bar, and dine in the Quirimbas Restaurant where leading chefs cook up a blend of international and local cuisine, with local Mozambique seafood in abundance.
Matemo Island Resort is a place where warm breezes and cool tropical waters are seemingly endless. Unparalleled service, comfort and adventure await guests at Matemo, where the gentle calm of Mozambique is calling.
Matemo is a tropical island paradise. Each of the 24 palm-thatched, air-conditioned chalets is situated on the beach within a few steps of the sea and offers en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, mini-bar and verandah – complete with hammock for watching the world go by. The rooms are comprised of four-post beds, each draped with soft, white linens for a romantic aura. Classic wooden furnishings add to the historic feel at Matemo along with old-style lanterns and bedside lamps.
The suite bathrooms have a modern, beach atmosphere, with grey-tiled walls and modern tubs and shower. Palm fronds and beach-view windows in the bathroom allow for the feeling that your room is merely an extension of the Mozambique surroundings. Central guest areas lay beneath palm-thatched ceilings, towering well above the living area for an overwhelming feeling of open space. Well lit and well furnished, the central area offers a cozy feeling outside of your room, complete with a bar, lounge sofas and chairs, and more blue water vistas. Elevated above the sea, the central guest area is perfect for sundowners as you watch the Mozambique sun slip beneath the Indian Ocean.
Medjumbe Island Resort is the ultimate in luxurious, exclusive island accommodation. Medjumbe is the ideal Mozambique island getaway for those who wish to experience exclusivity and privacy in a remote tropical location. This tiny untouched island with its awe-inspiring coral reefs and ocean views is world-renowned for delectable seafood, gracious hospitality and out of this world diving.
Medjumbe Island Resort has earned its enviable reputation as Mozambique’s best-kept secret. This tiny, pristine Quirimbas island resort with its bewitching ocean views and stunning coral reefs, is world-renowned for offering barefoot luxury, privacy and unparalleled hospitality. Its signature is stylish simplicity, with delicious seafood, some of the world’s premier diving and fishing, and a wealth of romantic delights combining to form a heady menu.
