Inhambane Mozambique is located on the coast of southeastern Africa.
This area contains one of the oldest settlements and was once the
busiest shipping port in the region. As early as the 7th century, Muslim
and Persian ships arrived here to trade cotton, gold, ivory and slaves.
The Portuguese arrived, conquered and removed the Arabs, and
established a trading post in 1534. The first Jesuit mission was built
in 1560.
The Europeans maintained control over the ports for centuries with
cooperation from local chieftains. The country struggled for nationalism
after WWII and the Portuguese influence was defeated in 1974.
Mozambique gained its independence but subsequent Civil Wars continued
to ravage the economy. In 1994, a peace treaty was signed and elections
were held.
The location has miles of sandy beaches and clear tropical waters making
water sports attractive to visitors from all over the world. Kayaking,
sailing and dhow cruises are popular past-times. Guests take catamaran
trips or ocean safaris to view the coast and experience dolphin or whale
watching. Deep-sea fishing excursions boast regularly catching big game
fish like marlin, sailfish and tuna. Bonito, wahoo, dorato and
barracuda are also frequently caught.
Visitors take the opportunity to swim, snorkel and scuba dive with
harmless whale sharks, manta rays and dugongs. Well-trained and
certified professional diving companies equip and instruct individuals
regardless of experience level. Dive companies have knowledge of key
locations for optimal marine life viewing. The region is virtually
unchartered territory, containing healthy coral reefs and over 1000
species of tropical fish that delight divers daily.
Guests preferring to remain on shore can venture across the beach on
horseback or explore biking trails. The city has numerous ancient
buildings to explore including old forts and villas. Portuguese
architecture is apparent in the Mediterranean styled churches and in the
villas constructed with terra cotta tile. A visit to the local market
allows visitors to purchase everything from fresh food to clothing and
supplies.
Accommodations vary and fit any budget. Guests can camp on the beach or
stay at a luxury resort. Budget stays include netted sleeping areas,
indoor plumbing and electricity. Many locations have swimming pools.
Beach bars and restaurants serve traditional cuisine to pizza. Fresh
seafood is plentiful and includes various species of fish, lobster,
prawns and crab. Chicken is also readily available. The local diet
consists of numerous fresh fruits and vegetables like banana, mango,
pineapple, coconut, avocado, paw paw and tomatoes. |