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Simba Beyond Africa Safaris - Gray Line South Africa
Gray Line SA
Simba Beyond Africa Safaris - Gray Line South Africa
Gray Line SA
Quirimbas Archipelago

Quirimbas Archipelago

Untouched Indian Ocean Wilderness

Established

2002

Size

7,500 km²

Elevation

0–50 m

Ecosystem

Marine, Mangrove, Coral Island

Best Time

May – November

Entry Fee

$10 per adult/day

About Quirimbas Archipelago

The Quirimbas Archipelago is one of the Indian Ocean's last truly wild island chains — 32 coral islands stretching along northern Mozambique's coast, surrounded by pristine coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. Unlike the more developed Bazaruto, Quirimbas retains an untouched, frontier feel with fewer visitors and a richer cultural heritage from centuries of Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese influence. The marine park protects humpback whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and some of the healthiest coral reefs in the western Indian Ocean. The historic stone town of Ibo Island, with its crumbling forts and silversmith tradition, adds a unique cultural dimension.

What Makes It Special

32 pristine coral islands

Historic Ibo Island stone town

Untouched coral reefs

Swahili cultural heritage

Humpback whale migration

Wildlife & Species

Humpback WhaleDolphinGreen TurtleHawksbill TurtleManta RayDugongCoconut CrabFish Eagle

Things to Do

Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Ibo Island History Tour
Dhow Sailing
Kayaking
Whale Watching
Sandbar Picnics

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season

Best wildlife viewing

MayJunJulAugSepOctNov

Shoulder Season

Fewer crowds, good value

AprDec

Green Season

Lush landscapes, birding

JanFebMar

Where to Stay

Ibo Island Lodge

Luxury

Restored colonial mansions on historic Ibo Island with diving, dhow trips, and silversmith workshops.

From $400/night / night

Azura Quilalea

Ultra-Luxury

Nine-villa private island resort on Quilalea Island with exceptional diving and snorkeling.

From $800/night / night

Guludo Beach Lodge

Mid-Range

Eco-lodge on the mainland coast supporting community development and marine conservation.

From $250/night / night

Safari Packages

5-Day Quirimbas Island Explorer

5 Days$3,500

Diving, dhow sailing, and historic Ibo Island exploration

7-Day Northern Mozambique: Quirimbas & Niassa

7 Days$5,000

Indian Ocean islands plus Africa's wildest game reserve

4-Day Quirimbas Diving Safari

4 Days$2,800

Pristine coral reefs with mantas, turtles, and whale sharks

Frequently Asked Questions

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