Overview

Located in northern Mozambique, the Quirimbas Archipelago comprises 31 islands that extend southward from Cape Delgado for around 200 kilometers. Dunes, coral reefs, mangroves, and all kinds of species, including humpback whales, turtles, and African fish eagles, connect these islands parallel to the coast.
The majestic Quirimbas National Park provides a significant stretch of magical forest for nature lovers to discover. A plethora of unusual fish and rare marine creatures like dugongs, humpback whales, and humpback whale calves are found in the Quirimbas National Park.
The Quirimbas Archipelago is a collection of picturesque islands dotting the coastline of Mozambique. The cultural and historical significance of the Quirimbas is unremarkable.
Because of the abundance of coral and fish in the clear waters, it's no surprise that this area has been designated as a marine sanctuary. If you're lucky, you'll see ribbon eels, spotted sweetlips, and yellow-banded snappers. Aside from the more common humpback and green turtles, there are also hawksbill and green turtles here. It is one of the world's most popular diving and fishing destinations.
The tourism industry aims to collaborate with the local communities to generate mutually beneficial outcomes for everyone concerned.

With its beautiful turquoise waters, pristine coral reefs, and white sandy beaches, this eco-friendly vacation spot is a must-see for anybody looking for a relaxing getaway. It is one of the best places in the country to go snorkeling and diving. An abundance of coral reefs draws in a wide variety of marine species. Seeing sea turtles, dolphins, or even a humpback whale is not uncommon for diving and snorkeling and snorkelers out on the open water!
Manatees with bucket-shaped mouths are a rarer species. Like the whales and marine mammals, these gentle giants are great for swimming and getting up close. Visitors can mingle with locals, find unique silverware, and explore old communities and buildings at this location.
The Quirimbas Islands provide a wealth of exploration opportunities. Everything from the local history and culture to the white sand beaches and animals can be found in this region. Quirimbas Archipelago is a paradise for wildlife and beach enthusiasts. With 32 islands, the Archipelago offers visitors a wide variety of attractions.

Things to Do & See in Quirimbas Archipelago

Island-hopping

The Quirimbas has gradually become one of Africa's most sought-after beach hideaways. You won't find the hordes of tourists in Quirimbas, where you'll find pristine white sand beaches, palm palms, and blue sea. Some four hundred kilometers from Pemba to the Tanzanian border, the Archipelago comprises 30 coral reefs linked by sandy beaches and mangrove swamps.
Whether it's Ibo's centuries-old architecture, Matemo's size, Vamizi's isolation, or Medjumbe's reputation as a honeymoon hotspot, each of these islands has its unique narrative to tell. You can take a dhow tour or dive diving or snorkeling amid the coral reefs if you're feeling more daring.
Snakes, dolphins, and whales live in the warm seas. If bonefishing, swordfish, mullet, starfish, and dogtooth tuna are on your bucket list, take a trip out to sea and see what you can find.

Explore Ibo Island

The Quirimbas Archipelago's most famous island is Ibo Island in Mozambique. It is among the most historic towns in Mozambique and has a rich history. Arab traders established a trading post on Ibo Island in the seventh century, and the Portuguese used it as their second-most significant commercial post in Mozambique by the 17th century.
Three forts and a beautiful Catholic church are some of the historic structures in the area. Ibo offers a lovely colonial ambiance and a rich cultural heritage.
Ibo Island has a rich and fascinating past. It was an important trading point on the East African coastline for 500 years and was a central hub for enslaved people and ivory trades.
Ibo Island's fascinating history isn't the only reason it's a popular tourist destination. The beach on the islands is among the world's most beautiful and untouched places. The Quirimbas National Park, which encompasses the island, is home to some of the world's most pristine coral reefs. Divers can take advantage of some of the world's best diving. On a dive, it's not uncommon to spot sea turtles, dolphins, or whales.
About 4,000 people live on the island right now. You'll get a chance to see a variety of traditional silversmiths jewelry, which you may buy.

Enjoying at Quirimbas National Park

One of Mozambique's most recently established and diverse protected areas is this national Park, established in 2002. It was recently named a UNESCO biosphere reserve, with 7500 square kilometers of mangrove swamps, coral reefs, and beautiful beaches, 80 percent of which are islands.
The Quirimbas Archipelago is probably most renowned for its postcard-perfect islands. With pristine white-sand beaches and blue waters filled with marine life, these islands are known for their natural beauty.
The Park's beautiful coral reefs and many tropical fish species make for excellent diving experiences. Wildlife and flora of all kinds can be found here.
Over 430 different birds are found in the Park's miombo woodlands, coastline woodland, rock inselbergs, marsh stands, coral rock islands, and extensive intertidal sand flats, covering 7,500 square kilometers.
Over 120,000 people call the park home, and their livelihoods largely depend on environmental resources in the area.

Visit Matemo Island

Located 20 minutes from Ibo in Mozambique, Matemo Island is a palm tree haven with stunning beaches, an ever-changing blue sea, and fantastic dive spots. It is the place to go if you're looking for an island vacation. It is located around 100 kilometers north of Pemba in the Quirimbas Archipelago.
The island's Dive School teaches divers how to scuba dive, and visitors may also go fishing on land and at sea and do cultural village visits. Eight km across and 3 kilometers wide, Matemwe Island is home to magnificent beaches and an aquamarine sea surrounded by thousands of palms. Families will enjoy their time in Matemo.

Visit Vamizi Island

With 7 miles and a width of about 1 mile, Vamizi Island is surrounded by abundant marine life and pristine coral reefs. Vamizi is ideal for families and friends with a tropical environment and powder-soft beaches.
It is estimated that there are over 180 varieties of virgin coral and more than 400 varieties of reef fish living in the seas around Vamizi Island. Many miles of wild, lonely beaches are perfect for leisurely walks.
Some of the island's highlights include a castaway picnic, a sunset cruise, deep-sea fishing, and watching newborn green turtles hatch at designated nesting locations.
Visit this location at your leisure. It's a place where you can bond with loved ones and enjoy the best of island life. It is known as one of the world's healthiest coral reef ecosystems and attracts divers from all over the world, particularly to Neptune's Arm, one of the most popular dive destinations.