The Quirimbas Archipelago consists of 37 coral Islands of which only a handful is permanently inhabited. The term Coral Island is given to these Islands because of what they are made of; ancient prehistoric coral reefs were alive and under water. The sheer number and proximity to one another are a clear indication that they once formed a barrier reef of several hundred kilometers.
The Quirimbas Archipelago has become known as the 'African Caribbean' because of its breath-taking diving, snorkelling, fishing and surroundings. The natural beauty of the area includes mangroves, coral reefs, tall coconut palms and endless white beaches.
The Quirimbas islands lie in the Indian Ocean, off the north-east coast of Mozambique and stretch for 100km along the coast. Getting to the islands is not as difficult as one would imagine – there are direct flights from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Islands were formed due to continental upliftment, receding ocean levels and erosion by relentless wave action. Today, as individual Islands of varying size and shape, they protrude approximately 2 to 4 meters above the high-water mark. Passing currents have deposited Casuarinas seeds, Coconuts and Mangrove seeds that have germinated and thrive in varying combinations and concentrations, providing a unique Island vegetation.
The Quirimbas Archipelago is undeveloped and remains a largely unexplored tourist paradise.
To find out more about Mozambique and make a booking to the Quirimbas Archipelago click here
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| The Quirimbas Archipelago in Mozambique |
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