EXPLORE THE MANGROVES

Out by foot, back by boat: your local guide who knows the landscape like the back of his hand will guide you through the mangrove labyrinths, mudflats and across open sea floor, before arriving at the white sandy beaches of Quirimba following paths used by residents of the islands for centuries, and still used today. Spot brightly coloured crabs and learn how the mangroves regenerate, and how they are utilised by the local population.

You can return to Ibo by boat at the next high tide, or extend your trip and return the following day.

Tour Guide: Benjamin, Alafo or Raul

Duration: Around 3 hours walking, 40-50 minutes return by boat.
Departure time: This walk can only be done at low tide. Check with a local guide.
Meeting point: Praça dos trabalhadores (next to Miti Miwiri)
Maximum group size: 10
Cost: 1.000 MTN for 1/2 person + 200 MTN each extra person
What to bring: coral shoes, water, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, snorkelling gear.

Tour highlights:

• Mangrove forest with 7 different mangrove varieties
• Spot birds and crab species
• The vast expanse of sea bed with beautiful views of the ocean
• You can arrange to have lunch or stay overnight on Quirimba. Pre-arrange this with your guide (additional cost).
• Quirimba’s beautiful beaches
• Local community and daily life

Please note: the crossing by foot from Ibo to Quirimba (or vice versa) can only be done at low tide (at Spring Tide). At high tide the journey can be made by boat. The boat journey costs 2000 MTN one way, with a maximum capacity of 15 people (including a guide).

There is a daily chappa (informal local passenger boat) between Ibo and Quirimba, which departs both islands at high tide (in daylight only). This is a very informal service for the locals. It takes any number of passengers and is unlikely to have life-jackets or other safety features. Be aware that the service doesn’t always run. Check on the ground for up to date departure times and locations. This costs 50 MTN per person.

You can take a tour of Quirimba – check at Mussa’s Place for details. Highlights include a huge Baobab tree (over 25 metres in diameter) a visit to the local village and the old church and the beautiful beaches of Cumilamba

Return boat transfers from Quirimba to Ibo can be arranged with your guide or at Mussa’s Place.