Magical Mozambique Getaway

5 Nights
Quirimbas Archipelago

Day 1

Arrive at Johannesburg International Airport where our representative will meet you, and escort you to the check-in counter, in time to connect with LAM Mozambique Airlines, flight TM312, departing Johannesburg at 08h40, flying via Maputo, and arriving at Pemba Airport at 13h40.

At Maputo Airport, you will need to purchase a visa for Mozambique - US$25 per person.

Upon arrival at Pemba Airport, having collected your luggage, you will be met by a representative of Matemo Island,  who will show you to the aircraft for your charter flight to Matemo Island Resort.  This flight will take around 30 minutes, and takes you right over the Quirimbas, enabling you to see the many islands and turquoise seas – quite a breathtaking experience!  At the Matemo Island airstrip, a member of staff will collect you, and drive you the short distance to the lodge.

Situated in the magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago, off the coast of Northern Mozambique, the remote Island of Matemo offers idyllic Mozambique island accommodation. Experience an Island holiday of unspoilt beauty, breathtaking scenery, spectacular marine life and extreme relaxation

You will be accommodated in a luxury double beach front chalet, offering satellite television, an en-suite bathroom, as well as an outside shower.  The chalet is tastefully furnished, air-conditioned, and around 20 metres from the sea.

During your stay at Matemo Island Resort your breakfasts and dinners are included, as well as non-motorised water sports.

Days 2, 3, 4 and 5

Time to chill out on the beautiful, unspoilt beaches of Matemo Island, while being offered a large variety of water sports - sunset cruises, visits to Ibo Island, snorkeling, kayaking, diving, and fishing.
 
Activities on offer at an extra cost will include:

Non-motorised sports included in the rate are hobie cat rides, sea kayaks, gypsy sailing dinghy, windsurfing, volleyball, snorkelling, swing ball, Frisbees, beach bats, cricket, and a selection of board games.  All guests using waterborne craft are required to wear life jackets at all times, and to stay within sight of the beach.

Day 6

After a leisurely breakfast, you will be air chartered from Matemo Island back to Pemba Airport, in time to connect with LAM Airlines, flight TM315, departing Pemba at 13h10, and arriving back in Johannesburg at 18h30.

PACKAGE PRICE: US$ 2 810 per person sharing

BUSH AND BEACH BONANZA

From US $ 5 170 per person, based on two persons travelling during low season

Available for all duration of stays - the itinerary can be adapted to your specific dates!

Day 1

Arrive at Johannesburg International Airport, where our representative will meet you in the Arrivals Hall.

He will escort you to the check in counters for your flight to Pemba Airport in far Northern Mozambique.

After clearing customs at Pemba Airport and purchasing a visa for Mozambique, at a cost of US$30 per person, a representative of Lugenda Lodge will meet you in the Arrivals Hall, and will escort you to the light aircraft for your charter flight to the lodge.  This flight will take around 45 minutes.

Lugenda Bush Camp is a relatively new lodge, situated in a game-rich region of Mozambique, offering a really secluded safari experience.

It is situated within the Niassa Reserve, on the eastern bank of the Lugenda River, amongst the Ngalongue Mountains (towering inselbergs or island mountains). The Serra Mecula is positioned across from the camp. It was on Mecula Mountain that Paul Von Lettow Vorbeck and his men held up towards the end of their incredible First World War East African Campaign against 1.5 million allied troops!

Lugenda Bush Camp consists of a main building housing a reading lounge area, self service bar and dining area. On either side of the main building sit four East African styled luxury tents no more than 40 meters from the Lugenda River. The main pool is directly in front of the main building virtually on the banks of the Lugenda River. 

All tents have an en-suite bathroom with bath and shower, ceiling fan, hair dryer, safe and wooden viewing deck. The tents have a concrete screed floor with individual Victorian styled deep tub and shower. The tents are situated underneath large wild fig trees which attract wild Elephant during the early morning and late afternoon.

All meals and local spirits & beers are supplied and included in your stay.

On offer at Lugenda:

– Swimming Pool
– Game Drives
– Bird watching

Days 2 and 3

The results of an aerial census carried out in October 2002, estimated an elephant population of 12 000 with evidence of an increasing trend in numbers. The Reserve also has over 9000 of the sable antelope and several thousands each of Cape buffalo, Lichtenstein's hartebeest, eland, and zebra. There are smaller populations of kudu, bushbuck, impala, wildebeest, waterbuck, reedbuck, and hippo. Duiker and warthogs abound. Lion, leopard and spotted hyena are common. The endangered Cape hunting dog (African wild dog) occurs with an estimated population exceeding 200 animals, which makes the Niassa Reserve one of the last best refugees for this species. Of particular interest are three endemic subspecies, which exist in Niassa but are rare elsewhere, namely: Niassa wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus johnstoni), Boehm's zebra (Equus burchelli boehmi), and Johnston's impala (Aepyceros melampus johnstoni).

Day 4

After breakfast you will be chartered back to Pemba Airport, where a representative of Medjumbe Island will meet you, and escort you to the aircraft for your flight to the Island.

This flight will take around 30 minutes, providing you with the most spectacular views of the string of islands, and the turquoise sea.

At Medjumbe Island airstrip, a member of staff will collect you, and drive you the short distance to the lodge.

Medjumbe is a tiny, remote island in the Quirimbas, with a real 'Robinson Crusoe' feel.

Accommodation at Medjumbe Island Resort consists of 12 secluded chalets no more than 20m from the beach. All chalets have air conditioning and the convenience of mini-bars and tea/coffee facilities. All chalets are beautifully furnished and equipped with ceiling fans, personal electronic safes, hair dryers, and satellite TV.  The restaurant boasts an inside and outside deck with verandah.  

This small, quaint island is teeming with fascinating bird life, including the Black Heron and Game fish including marlin, sailfish, dogtooth tuna, mackerel, various species of kingfish, and the infamous bonefish can be found there. Stroll along pure white shores and marvel at the turquoise ocean. Sunsets streak across the sky in a range of apricot to purple hues. Traditional Mozambique stone architecture adds texture and intrigue. The nearby island of Quissanga is an ideal choice for a romantic expedition. All this is just a tiny taste of what Medjumbe Island Resort has to offer.

This intimate Island is close to St Lazarus Banks and is ideal for fishing, diving and leisure.

During your stay at Medjumbe Island Resort your breakfasts, light lunches and dinners are included, as well local drinks as non-motorised water sports.

Days 5, 6, 7 and 8

Medjumbe Island offers a large variety of water sports - sunset cruises, snorkeling, kayaking, diving, and fishing.

The tropical waters around the Quirimbas islands are one of Mozambique's best-kept secrets. Here in clear waters that reach 30°C in summer, and rarely less than 26°C in winter, you will discover a marine ecosystem that is absolutely pristine. Medjumbe's spectacular coral reef with its dazzling colour palette of fish remains little explored, and apart from the 12 known dive sites, intrepid divers can set out to explore a host of new dive locations so far undiscovered. Ask our dive master to let you name the site you discover!

The Quirimbas Archipelago offers some of the most spectacular fishing in the world. Unspoilt and largely unexplored, the Indian Ocean here with its deep Mozambique Channel harbours some of the most exciting game fish to catch - species such as Kingfish, Queenfish, Barracuda, Mackerel and Yellowfin Tuna. Even novice anglers are sure to be delighted with a catch!

A world of discovery awaits you on our breathtaking tropical idyll. For marine adventures, such as diving, snorkeling or fishing, you could not choose a more idyllic natural environment, whilst water sports such as sailing, water-skiing, wind surfing and kayaking provide endless action-packed fun.

Day 9

After a leisurely breakfast, you will be air chartered from Medjumbe Island back to Pemba, in time to connect with your scheduled flight back to Johannesburg International Airport.

INCLUDED IN YOUR ITINERARY:

 EXCLUDED WILL BE:

Quirimbas Discovered

Day 1
Arrive at Johannesburg International Airport, where a representative of the Tourist's Friend will meet you in the Arrivals Hall.  He will hand you your Air Mozambique tickets, and then accompany you to the check in counter for your flight to Pemba Airport.

Flight TM312 departs Johannesburg at 08h40, arriving in Pemba at 13h10, after stopping en-route at Maputo.  Check-in time for this flight will be 1.5 hours prior to departure time (07h10).   Visa costs will be US$31 per person, payable at your point of entry, in US$ cash, small denominations.

At Pemba Airport, after collecting your luggage, you will be met by a representative of Ibo Island Lodge who will escort you to the light aircraft for your 20 minute flight to the island.  This flight takes you over the Quirimbas Archipelago, and is really spectacular.

Ibo Island supports one of the oldest towns in Mozambique, and is definitely one of the most interesting and atmospheric towns in the whole country. Ibo Island is regarded as one of Africa’s best-kept secrets, and many people say Ibo Island was the highlight of their time spent in Mozambique.

Mozambique’s recorded history goes back many centuries and the country has been subject to conquest and exploitation since time immemorial. As early as AD600 Arab traders had established contact with the local inhabitants and subsequently established fortified trading posts along the coastline. Via these trading posts slaves, gold and ivory were shipped to the Arab world.

Ibo Island is one of the most ancient settlements in Mozambique, after Ilha do Moçambique (usually just known as “Ilha” in Mozambique) The specific history of Ibo can be dated back to at least the 1600 – Chinese grave stones still bear their readable dates, though Arab influence dates earlier. The Fort of Forma de Cisterna was constructed by the Arabs even before the Portuguese occupation.

The Lodge encompasses three old mansions each over a century old with walls a meter thick and high lofty ceilings. Located right on the prime waterfront site, where romantic dhows sail out to sea on each high tide, the lodge offers a classic island experience, and with just fourteen luxury rooms assures guests of exceptional service and flexibility. 

The large, en-suite, air conditioned luxurious rooms are individually designed, and boast antiques and handcrafted furniture, with magnificent wooden doors and shutters that evoke the building’s original design. The wide verandas and spaces are adorned with mahogany and teak day beds, carved by some of the islands most skilled artists and decorated with the softest of cushions covered in vibrant local fabrics.  Ibo Island Lodge is stylish, elegant and unique.

Meals feature freshly grow organic vegetables, herbs and fruits and combine traditional specialities with seafood: giant tiger prawns, game fish and Ibo’s speciality: crab with fragrant soft, fluffy coconut rice.  Romantic dinners are served on the tranquil verandas or on the rooftop terraces all with awesome views over the sea.

During your stay on Ibo Island, breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included.

Days 2 and 3
Activities available at Ibo Island Lodge:

•The Ibo Island Historical Experience - a remarkable guided emotional journey through the history of Ibo.  
•The rare and unique mangrove excursion where you can understand more about this precious ecosystem and the outstanding bird and marine life it supports.
•Visits to Ibo’s pristine sand spit beach (only accessed by boat and totally private)
•Cultural and community interactive projects - the silversmiths experience 
•Sea kayaking in calm flat waters and the mangroves, a chance to navigate winding channels with breathtaking scenery or island hop safely under the expert leadership of your guide.
•Snorkelling, traditional dhow safaris and cruises, and massage
•Scuba diving (Ibo has some of the very best sites in the Quirimbas straight off the lighthouse) and fishing on a tag and release basis.

Day 4
After breakfast you will be boated from Ibo Island to Guludo Lodge.
Guludo Beach Lodge lies between the dazzling Indian Ocean and wild African bush, overlooking undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Mozambique. In the north of the Quirimbas National Park; Guludo boasts incredible wildlife, both above and below the warm waters edge. Perfectly situated to discover these wonders, you can dive the pristine coral reefs, explore the islands, soak up the rich local culture and take in the vast African bush.
 
At Guludo you will be accommodated in an adobe bandana, overlooking the beach.  Raised bedrooms sit under an expansive palm-thatched roof, opening upwards and outwards to make the most of the stunning sea views and cooling sea breeze.

Days 5, 6 and 7
ACTIVITIES ON OFFER AT AN ADDITIONAL COST:

Rolas Island:
A short sail from Guludo, Rolas Island hosts crystal clear waters, a white sandy peninsular, breath-taking snorkelling, coconut crabs, coral rock forest, small fishing community and a stunning picnic spot with 360 degree views. Rolas has a charm of it's own that never ceases to enchant.

Bush Picnic:
This is a beautiful spot to take in the vast African bush, one of the few places in the national park where it is possible to view elephants during the day. You will take drinks and snacks and you can sit back, absorb the view and peace while watching the sun go down while keeping an eye out for wildlife.

Mangroves:
South of Guludo are expansive mangrove forests. Local guides in dugout canoes will pole you through the narrow channels into the heart of the mangroves, pointing out some of the extraordinary inhabitants. With only the sound of rippling water, birds singing and the occasional monkey laughing, the tranquillity of the mangroves is the ultimate relaxing experience.    

Ibo Island:
Historic Ibo Island was once an important trading port for slaves and ivory. The eerie wide streets are flanked with grand, dilapidated Portuguese style villas and the ancient pentagonal fort used by silversmiths using ancient Arabic techniques to make exquisite jewellery.

Humpback Whales:
From July to November Humpback whales pass by the Quirimbas Archipelago and the team of Marine Biologists collect vital data to feed back into the international whale catalogue. During this period guests can go on a research trip to see the whales and learn more about them.  ($25 goes to Nema to fund further research).

Pangane Beach:
If you're keen to explore around Guludo, a 30 minute drive north is Pangane Beach, another beach paradise. Pangane Beach is a long white sandy peninsular littered with palms and some lovely snorkelling spots. Pangane is perfect for a chill out day while seeing a little more of the beauty of the Guludo region.

Day 8
After breakfast at Guludo Lodge, you will be boated to Matemo Island, 20 minutes away.

Situated in the magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago, off the coast of Northern Mozambique, the remote Island of Matemo offers idyllic Mozambique island accommodation. Experience an Island holiday of unspoilt beauty, breathtaking scenery, spectacular marine life and extreme relaxation

You will be accommodated in a luxury beach front chalet, offering satellite television, an en-suite bathroom, as well as an outside shower.  The chalets are tastefully furnished, air-conditioned, and around 20 metres from the sea. 

During your stay at Matemo Island Resort your breakfasts, lunches and dinners are included, as well bottled water in your chalet, house wines, beers and spirits, and non-motorised water sports.

Days 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14
Time to chill out on the beautiful, unspoilt beaches of Matemo Island, while being offered a large variety of water sports - sunset cruises, visits to Ibo Island, snorkelling, kayaking, diving, and fishing.
 
Activities on offer at an extra cost will include:

•Diving – various ranges of courses (Discover Scuba / Open Water and Advanced Open Water).  Most of the diving is done off the eastern side of Matemo, all departing from the beach, and should be scheduled the day before.  All equipment is available from the Activity Centre.
•Fishing at Matemo may be done either from the beach or from a boat.  All tackle is provided and types of fishing include game fishing for kingfish, barracuda, Dorado, queen, serra, wahoo, yellowfin, tuna and sailfish.  All billfish are strictly catch and release.  Excursions are for either 4 or 8-hour duration.  Fly fishermen are welcome to bring their own rods and reels (mainly for king and tuna fish)
•Skiing and tubing:  slalom, tandem, wakeboard, kneeboard, tube and banana boat skiing are all on offer.  These activities are charged at 15-minute intervals.
•Snorkelling trips are conducted from a boat, and there are various locations offered – mainly on the western side of the island.   You can expect to see a variety of reef fish, corals and sponges.  Snorkelling will last for one hour.
•Ibo Island trips consists of a 25 minute boat transfer to Ibo Island, a walk around the town and fort, viewing of the locally-made silver jewellery, with the option to purchase.  The full trip is most interesting, and should not be missed.  The duration is around 3 and a half hours, with a stop on the return journey for a swim.

Non-motorised sports included in the rate are hobie cat rides, sea kayaks, gypsy sailing dinghy, wind surfing.  All guests using waterborne craft are required to wear life jackets at all times, and to stay within sight of the beach. Other activities include: volleyball, snorkelling, swing ball, Frisbees, beach bats, cricket, and a selection of board games

Day 15
After a leisurely breakfast, you will be air chartered from Matemo Island back to Pemba Airport, in time to connect with your flight back to Johannesburg.  LAM Airlines, flight TM173, departs Pemba at 12h20, via Maputo, arriving back at Johannesburg International Airport at 18h30.
 
Priced from: US $ 5 020 per person sharing


Included in this Itinerary:

•Johannesburg International Airport meet and greet service
•LAM Airlines flight from Johannesburg to Pemba Airport
•Air charter from Pemba to Ibo Island
•3 Nights at Ibo Island Lodge in a king suite
•Breakfasts, lunches, dinners daily
•1 Guided island historical tour
•1 Return daily transfer to a private beach
•Boat transfer from Ibo Island to Guludo Lodge
•4 Nights at Guludo Lodge in an adobe Banda
•All meals and non-alcoholic drinks
•Non-motorised activities
•Boat transfer from Guludo Lodge to Matemo Island
•7 Nights at Matemo Island Resort in an en-suite chalet
•Breakfasts, lunches, dinners
•Teas and coffees and bottled water in chalet
•House wines, beers, spirits
•Non-motorised water sports
•National Park fee
•Air charter from Matemo to Pemba Airport
•LAM Airlines flight from Pemba to Johannesburg International Airport

Not included:

•Travel and medical insurance
•Visa requirements (US $ 31 each for Mozambique)
•Extra drinks and activities at Matemo Island (charged to include a 17% Mozambique tax)
•Departure taxes Mozambique:   currently US $ 16 per person
•Drinks and additional activities at Ibo Island and Guludo
•Gratuities and items of a personal nature

Code: MFP14

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