"a true once in a lifetime experience!"

For true adventurers and those looking for a completely unique holiday experience in Mozambique - guided dhow or kayaking island hopping trips in the Quirimbas Archipelago is the answer!  Explore the coastlines, fringed by tropical islands on a motorized Arab dhow, complete with experienced crew and a professional guide.  Sea kayak or sail up wide coastal river mouths teeming with red listed bird species in the pristine mangrove forests. At night your chef will prepare you a feast of fresh seafood and traditional cuisine over an open fire whilst you relax and marvel at the stars above. 

The trips are done either by dhow or kayak and there is also the option of doing this privately or joining one of the scheduled departures available.  On the dhow safaris guests are transported mainly by dhow, however, there will be kayaks as well for use to explore the islands and as an additional activity.  The kayak safaris are for the true adventurers as the kayaks are used as the only form of transportation for the duration of the itinerary.  A reasonable level of fitness is required for the kayak safari. 

Accommodation is set up in mobile fly camps on various islands with dome tents, linen, stretchers and all the relevant expedition equipment.  All meals are provided, including teas and coffees.  Alcoholic drinks and mineral water can be purchased on safari.  Due to the remoteness of the safaris it is recommend that beverage orders are placed at least one month prior to arrival.  The team will do their best to cater for special requests but due to the remote location, this is not always feasible.

The dhow and kayak safaris are ideal for a group of friends, families and special interest groups.  It can easily combine with accommodation at one of the beautiful island lodges in the Quirimbas Archipelago - a luxury end to a truly memorable experience!!  Another popular option would be to combine Gorongosa National Park's game experience with either a dhow or sea kayak island hopping experience - an oppertunity to truly experience the best of what Mozambique has on offer up close and personal!

Please contact us for more information, rates and details should you be interested in this unique experience!

Overview of Dhow / Kayak Island Safaris:

Camps are simple and rustic and eco friendly featuring:
2 man 3 x 3 metre dome tents with built in ground sheets, screened windows and mosquito nets.
Bush shower and basin and bush (long drop toilet)  For groups with over 6 clients, separate bush ablutions are provided for men and women
Bedding – stretchers, foam mattresses, sleeping bag and pillows are provided.
Each camp features a central main tent that provides excellent shade and shelter and set up to best maximize views.
Meals are a sit down at a table affair with comfortable camp chairs (back and arm rests)
Paraffin lanterns

Dhows:
12 meter solid teak magnificent traditionally built sailing dhow
Shade area and open area with bench seating
Roof area for sunbathing
Easy access to water for snorkeling
Lots of space
Double kayaks loaded on board
Operated traditionally by experienced  dhow captain and crew under sail or motorized (outboard) for days with no wind

Service and Staff on Safari:
All safaris are led and guided by experienced English speaking guide with excellent knowledge of mangroves, birds, marine life, culture and local conditions.
Skippered by Mozambican dhow captain and crew – born and bred in the Quirimbas – clients link to real culture and heritage
Chef and waiter to attend to all meals and bar service. Open fire grilled seafood, healthy island style food inclusive of tea and coffee. Cash bar for all drinks including mineral water.
Camp hand to set up all tents and assist with luggage – these safaris are NON participation bare foot luxury eco camping experiences.

Activities and Experiences on safari:
Outstanding swimming off remote / uninhabited beaches, islands and sand banks
Snorkelling off pristine reefs – either shore based, or from the dhow / kayaks
Island and mainland exploration
Island hopping
Dhow sailing and sea kayaking
A broad range of beach, river and island camps
Culturally interactive – meet the local fishing communities on the islands and mainland and see how they live
Outstanding birding, mangrove and marine exploration with knowledgeable guide
Various different eco systems (beach, mainland, mangrove, river mouth, reefs etc)
Wide variety of fresh seafood
Combined with Ibo Island Lodge for comfort and home from home luxury, massage and spa treatments, 2 pools, gardens, excellent food, and a wide variety of guided activities.