Pemba & the Quirimbas Archipelago Holidays

When you’re not diving among coral reefs and tropical fish or relaxing on unspoiled beaches, there is plenty to keep you entertained in Pemba and the Quirimbas Archipelago. Stroll among Portuguese colonial architecture as you enjoy the markets and nightlife of mainland Pemba. Take a tour of Ibo’s ancient ruins, forts, and churches on an island where ancient Arabian influences blend with centuries under European rule.

Kayak in the blue waters of the bay or the bird-filled mangrove wetlands. Visit a local village and coconut plantation on Quirimba Island. Sail to a deserted sandbank for a castaway picnic, join a deep-sea fishing tour, or pass around the islands on a sunset cruise. Enjoy watersports from your luxury resort or taste fresh seafood with a view from your hotel restaurant. Most importantly, take it easy; there’s no need to rush on the Quirimbas Archipelago.

Regarded by those in the know as one of the hidden gems of the diving world, the Quirimbas Archipelago offers some of the world’s best sites untainted by the high visitor numbers of more established destinations. Swim among reef fish and sharks at the huge sandbank of Zala, see dense shoals of game fish making their way through the Rush Hour channel, or spot mackerel and rays off the shore of Ibo.

Novice divers can gain confidence among the shallow reefs of Rolas, while more experienced underwater explorers will enjoy the diverse locations around Medjumbe. Quilalea, Matemo, and Vamizi cater for all levels with sites from house reefs to coral gardens and even night diving options. Wherever you explore, expect to see rays, turtles, and dolphins alongside cod, snapper, and sharks. You might even encounter whales or a rare dugong if you’re lucky.

Choose between the coastal town of Pemba, the main island of Ibo, and a selection of private islands for your stay at the Quirimbas Archipelago. Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of the mainland gateway when you check in at the deluxe resort of Avani Pemba Beach, the hidden terrace of Kirimizi, or the ten-hectare retreat of Chuiba Bay Lodge.

Make your base on one of Mozambique’s oldest island settlements among the tropical gardens and mansion suites of Ibo Island Lodge or the boutique guesthouse of Cinco Portas. Spend days in romantic luxury at the private island resorts of Anantara Medjumbe and Azura Quilalea, or make family memories at Matemo. Every island has its own personality, and every lodge offers something different. Our Travel Specialists will help guide you to the right Quirimbas Archipelago home.

30°C days all year and low visitor numbers even during peak season mean Pemba and the Quirimbas Archipelago are a tranquil island escape no matter when you arrive. July and August are the busiest months, so September and October are recommended for those looking to combine long, dry days with an even more exclusive atmosphere.

Rain is more frequent from late November to April, but showers rarely fall every day and tend to be short and heavy when they do. If combining your island stay with a safari, time your visit to match the best conditions in your chosen park and create an incredible African wildlife and beach experience.