The Quirimbas National Park is the great natural jewel of Cabo Delgado Province.

It spills down from Mozambique’s northern mountain plateaux and into the waters of the Indian Ocean.

Along the way there are great swathes of montane forests, savannah plains and endless mangroves, not to mention some sparkling coral reefs ringing the shoreline where the reserve extends into the sea.

The unique duo of inland and coastal habitats makes Quirimbas a great place to come and spot the likes of African leopards, elephant herds, and crocs, all in the same day as seeing the large dugong and schools of multi-coloured fish from the tropics!

Tucked away on the northeast coast of Mozambique, the Quirimbas National Park is a hidden gem in Africa’s crown. This UNESCO biosphere reserve encompasses beautiful forest, secluded islands, and turquoise waters, and supports endangered species above and below the waterline.

Ancient cultures meet modern-day Africa on the island of Ibo where you can experience adventure travel at its best, from snorkelling and diving to kayaking and camping, surrounded by ancient traditions and architectural ruins from centuries past.

This combination of cultures and histories makes the park, and especially Ibo and its surrounding islands, a very special and unique destination, so come and explore!

Size of Quirimbas National Park Mozambique

Quirimbas National Park covers an area of 7500 square kilometres of woodlands, granite inselbergs, coastal forests, white beaches and coral reefs, home to a rich terrestrial and marine wildlife.

Location of Quirimbas National Park Mozambique

The Quirimbas National Park is a protected area in the Cabo Delgado Province of Mozambique, encompassing the southern part of the Quirimbas Islands, as well as a significant mainland area. The mainland region of Taratibua contains various inselbergs.

How to get to Quirimbas National Park Mozambique

There is no direct connection from Nampula to Quirimbas National Park. However, you can fly to Pemba then take the travel to Quirimbas National Park. Alternatively, you can take the bus to Pemba then take the travel to Quirimbas National Park.

Things to do in Quirimbas National Park Mozambique

Kayak rental

Kayaks can be rented from the larger hotels on the island and also from Archipelago.

Diving

Diving can be arranged via Ibo Lodge. This is the only dive outfit in the Quirimbas. Lodge guests take priority over other bookings.

SUP’s, bikes and snorkelling gear can also be rented on the island.

When to visit Quirimbas National Park

Quirimbas has a tropical climate, and most of the year it is sunny and warm. The wettest months tend to be in January and February. The best time to visit the Quirimbas islands is between April and October when rainfall and temperatures are at a minimum. Between July and September, it can get chilly as the wind picks up.

Where to stay in Quirimbas National Park

There are a few fancy private island resorts like Anantara Medjumbe island resort which can be reached by plane from Pemba and Azura Quilalea which can be reached by helicopter or private charter from Pemba.

But otherwise, you’ll probably want to go to Ibo Island, which has the most hotels and then arrange boat trips to neighbouring islands from there.