The town of Inhambane, 500km north of Maputo, can be reached by tar road although a 4x4 may be necessary to get to some of the resorts (please see resort information). It is one of the oldest towns in Mozambique dating back to the 10th century and the Arab traders. It was in 1534 that the Portuguese established a permanent trading post. The atmosphere and architecture in the town reflects this exciting and diverse history.
Inhambane is served by an airport and a port, and has petrol stations, banks, public phones, shops, markets, a bus terminus and a museum. Side-walk cafes are dotted along the narrow streets.
There are some noteworthy sights for the culture vultures including the 200 year old Cathedral of Our Lady of Conception, the Governor’s Palace, the Municipal buildings, and the museum. The town itself is set on the bay of Inhambane, looking across to Maxixe. Enjoy a drink at the harbour whilst watching the dhows cruise across the bay. It is possible to hire a dhow to sail you around the bay or up to the Linga Linga Nature Reserve.
This fascinating area used to be a whaling station but is now the home to some of the last remaining dugong in Southern Mozambique.
The landscape surrounding Inhambane is dominated by thousands of coconut palms - you’re really in the tropics now! This long stretch of coast line is by far the most developed in Mozambique as far as tourism is concerned. Apart from the beautiful historical town of Inhambane the main attraction to this area are the idyllic beaches of Jangamo, Tofo, Tofinho and Barra, where the sea lover can take part in a variety of marine activities. It is a great area for snorkeling, fishing and surfing. There are many good diving reefs in the area including the aptly named Manta reef, and Praia de Rocha where the rock and coral has formed a spectacular landscape of pinnacles, gullies, and overhangs. There is also the opportunity for dolphin and whale watching safari’s.