Ilha de Mozambique Accommodation
Accommodation in Ilha de Mozambique
Looking for for accommodation in Ilha de Mozambique? We have accommodation in all areas of Ilha de Mozambique, and by type of Ilha de Mozambique accommodation such as b&b, self catering, hotel and guest houses etc. Please email us at marc @ travelsupermarket.co.za telling us what you are looking for and we will send you a complete list of the places to stay in Ilha de Mozambique matching your needs. We also list the direct contact details of each establishment so you can then choose the one you want and contact them directly.
Things to do in Ilha de Mozambique
Ilha de Mozambique is a small yet beautiful coral island in the north of Mozambique, just 4-kilometers off the coast of Africa. Its compact size makes it possible to walk the entire length of the island in only 30 minutes. This doesn’t detract from the appeal of the island though. Seeped in history, many people choose to visit the island to view the exquisite architecture and rich historical remnants. There are a number of monuments and buildings worth visiting, including a museum in the Palacio Govierno, the Mosque and Sea Food Market, the Hindu Temple Church, the Museum of Sacred Art and the Maritime Museum (to name a few). The fort at the northern tip of the island houses the Church of Nossa Senhora Baluarte. Dating back to 1522, many consider the Church to be the oldest surviving European building in the southern hemisphere. An important consideration for visitors to the island is that some of the monuments and attractions are classed as “military or state defense objects”. This means that you may not take photos of them unless prior arrangements have been made with local authorities. The northern end of the island houses a dive centre and is more focused on fun and relaxation. You can take boat trips, dive among the coral reefs or simply laze on the beach. There are a number of shops and restaurants here, and accommodation is even available here should you wish to stay over.
How to get to Ilha de Mozambique
Ilha de Mozambique is a small island connected to other land by a bridge. As such, you cannot generally get direct transport there and have to instead head to Nampula before heading into the island. Nampula does have an airfield and you can connect to it from Maputo Airport. Although some flights will go directly to Maputo Airport before connecting to Nampula, many airlines from international destinations stop first at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa before connecting up to Mozambique. Alternatively, you can cross the border by road from South Africa and drive up to Nampula – you must however be warned that many of the roads are very rugged and it can prove to be quite a rough ride. Once in Nampula you can also make use of a boat service to reach the island.
History & general info about Ilha de Mozambique
Ilha da Mozambique is a former Portuguese trading post, operating as far back as the 10th century. The arrival of Vasco de Gama in 1498 saw the establishment of a Portuguese fort, and the subsequent claiming of the territory for his nation. The Portuguese stayed in power for almost 500 years before Mozambique gained independence in 1975. Mozambique then entered into a bloody civil war, leaving the residents poverty-stricken and sick. With the fort structure offering easy fuel for fires, it soon fell into disrepair. As the population managed to rebuild themselves, the fort too was rebuilt and was later used as a school. Today, the island is home to more than 14 000 residents. The natural beauty and architectural heritage draw visitors regularly. Fresh water is piped to the island but is not always sufficient to meet all sanitation requirements that can sometimes be a problem, and Cholera outbreaks occur occasionally. There are however a number of hotels and guesthouses offering modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing holiday.
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