Quirimbas National Park

Quirimbas National Park is one of Africa’s most remarkable protected areas combining a terrestrial mainland section of miombo woodland and coastal forest with a marine section encompassing 11 islands of the southern Quirimbas Archipelago. The park covers 7500 square kilometres making it one of the largest conservation areas in Mozambique. The marine environment supports outstanding coral reefs, sea turtle nesting beaches, and populations of dugong and humpback whale. On the mainland the park protects elephant, lion, leopard, wild dog, and sable antelope in remote and rarely visited wilderness. The historic island of Ibo — just outside the park — offers a fascinating cultural dimension with its crumbling Portuguese colonial architecture and centuries-old silversmiths. Quirimbas represents a frontier marine and terrestrial safari experience in one of the least-developed tourism regions of East Africa. Access is typically by light aircraft to lodges on the islands.