Overview
Inhambane Holidays
Inhambane, a stunning coastal province in southern Mozambique, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty.
One of Mozambique’s oldest settlements, its sheltered bays have served as a safe harbor for Muslim and Persian traders since the 11th century. The region’s cultural significance even inspired Mozambique’s celebrated poet and journalist, Craveirinha, whose lament The Tasty Tangerines of Inhambane pays homage to its lush fruit and rich heritage.
Today, Inhambane is renowned for its picturesque beaches and vibrant resort towns, offering something for every traveller. Tofo, a world-famous diving destination, draws adventurers eager to swim alongside manta rays and whale sharks in its warm, crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs. Tofo buzzes with a lively bar and nightlife scene, attracting many South African tourists during Christmas, New Year and Easter.
Nearby Barra is smaller and caters to families seeking a more tranquil holiday. Its quieter beaches and natural tidal pools are perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life at a leisurely pace.
Overview
Inhambane Holidays
Where is Inhambane?
Spanning 700 km of Mozambique’s southern coastline, Inhambane is a historic province known for its colonial-style cities, stunning beaches and rich marine life.
The region’s close proximity to Zimbabwe and South Africa make it a popular addition to multi-destination family safaris in southern Africa.
The area is easily accessible via road from Kruger National Park or Maputo as well as chartered flights to the local airport from Cape Town and Johannesburg.
What to do in Inhambane?
Inhambane offers a rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and unparalleled marine adventures, making it an ideal destination for a luxury family safari.
Begin your journey in the historic streets of Inhambane town, where Portuguese colonial architecture meets the vibrant bustle of local markets. Visit the 200-year-old Cathedral of Our Lady of Conception and sample traditional Mozambican delicacies, from fresh seafood to aromatic curries and stews.
Just a short drive away, Tofo Beach beckons with its powdery sands and turquoise waters. Renowned for its vibrant marine life, Tofo hosts one of the world’s largest juvenile whale shark populations. Families can join a morning whale safari with Liquid Dive Adventures, diving or snorkelling alongside these gentle giants during migration season. A visit to the Manta Ray and Whale Shark Research Centre provides an educational glimpse into vital conservation efforts, further enriching your experience.
For those seeking a quieter experience, Barra Beach offers the chance to snorkel in the pristine Indian Ocean. The beaches are also home to nesting sites for five species of endangered turtles – including both leatherback and loggerhead – offering a rare and unforgettable sight when in season.
Further north, Pomene National Reserve invites exploration of its protected mangrove forests and estuaries. Embark on a water bird safari or a boat trip through the estuary, where whale sharks and giant crabs can be spotted.
Inhambane’s blend of quaint villages, family-friendly beaches, and unique wildlife encounters makes it a great beach destination for nature enthusiasts and families looking for a taste of coastal Mozambican life.
Best time to visit?
The best time to visit Inhambane is during the long dry season from April to December, when clear, sunny days and warm temperatures offer ideal conditions for long beach days.
The diving and snorkelling is particularly good from April to June and again from September to November when the water is calm and clear and there are fewer tourists.
Those interested in whale-spotting should visit from June to November, when humpback whales begin to arrive after an epic migration from Antarctica.
The cyclone season lasts from January to March and is best avoided if you are after a sunny beach holiday. However, five different species of turtle nest during these months, making it a must-see if this is on your bucket list or you are after a more budget friendly safari.
Who should visit?
The vibrant resort towns, thriving marine life and rich history of Inhambane make it a must-visit for sun-seekers, diving enthusiasts and culture buffs.
Nature enthusiasts can dive with manta rays and whale sharks at Tofo Beach or visit the nesting sites of over five species of sea turtle in Barra, while the museums and architecture of Inhambane offer an educational opportunity for the whole family.
The coastline is dotted with family-friendly resorts offering a diverse range of activities on both sea and land, while the airport and well-maintained road network of Inhambane make it an effortless destination for luxury family safari holidays.
Places to stay
Recommended Inhambane accommodation
Why travel with Coral Tree?
We are the specialists in luxury Africa family safari holidays
We are Africa experts and also parents. We understand what makes a memorable family adventure.
Our knowledge and connections are unsurpassed
We have been living and working in African tourism for over two decades.
Every journey is tailored with your specific wishes in mind
No off-the-shelf packages or cookie-cutter itineraries. Unique family safaris.
Each trip funds grassroots conservation and girls education projects
You pay no more for the privilege, we support causes close to our hearts.
