With its rich and ancient history dating back thousands of years and its picture-perfect white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and azure ocean filled with incredible marine life, the south-east African nation of Mozambique has been consistently voted as one of the best beach and diving destinations in the world.

Bordered by South Africa and Eswatini to the southwest, Zimbabwe to the west, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest and Tanzania to the north, Mozambique's extensive coastline stretches for 2,300km from Ponto D'Ouro in the south to Quiongo in the north and is lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

For hundreds of years before the arrival of the first European settlers, Mozambique had been a thriving outpost for Arab, Persian and Indian traders with a number of Swahili-speaking port towns being developed between the 7th and 11th centuries. To this day, fortifications of these old trading towns can be seen in many of the country's tourism destinations.

In 1498 Portuguese seafarer Vasco da Gama landed in Mozambique and so began a process of gradual colonisation and settlement. Mozambique gained its independence from Portugal in 1975, but then descended into a protracted civil war that lasted until 1992, when democracy returned and a process of redevelopment began.

Tourism has become a major industry and investment into tourism infrastructure has been considerable, but without losing the country's wonderful, laid-back and at times rustic charm. World-class resorts draw tourists from all over the world to sample the amazing food, culture and outstanding beaches.

Major tourism centres include Ponto D'Ouro and Ponto Malongane, renowned for their dive sites, the capital city of Maputo with its grand colonial buildings and buzzing, vibrant culture, as well as Xai Xai, Inhambane and Vilanculos for their amazing beaches and beach resorts.

At Best African Safaris, we focus on offering beach-based safari tours and packages to Southern Mozambique, taking in the very best this beautiful African country offers. If you would like to add on visits to other places of interest, such as the world-renowned Gorongosa National Park or the Maputo Special Reserve with its coastal elephants, please let us know!

When it comes to Mozambique, life really is a beach! The coast is the country's major drawcard and it's home to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches in the world. Powder-soft white sands fringed by swaying palm trees and the crystal-clear turqoise waters of the Indian Ocean are home to some wonderful luxury resorts, guest houses and boutique hotels that offer a range of exciting activities, things to do and see.

Lay back on a lounger and soak up some warm African sunshine while listening to the mesmerising sound of the waves breaking just a few metres away... Sample incredible seafood and warm hospitality... Explore immaculate coral reefs and discover amazing marine life... Take a sunset cruise along the coast on a traditional dhow... Climb to the top of sand dunes to enjoy spectacular views... Enjoy an ocean fishing trip... Spend the day on a tidal sand-bar looking for pansy shells while enjoying a picnic in paradise... These are all the reasons why you should include Mozambique in your Best African Safari tour!

A visit to Mozambique is also the perfect complement to a Big Five safari - so think about spending a few days relaxing on the beach after exploring the African bush with us! The bush and beach combination can't be beaten!

A handy guide to what to expect from the weather, daily temperatures and helpful information to help you plan the perfect beach safari with us...

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