Gold, slaves, Ivory and Pirates! Ilha de Mozambique and Ibo Island have long and fascinating histories and visitors can learn about the intriguing past of this coastline.

Mozambique is one of the finest diving destinations in the world, with remarkably unspoilt coral reefs and an abundant variety of marine life that all levels of divers can enjoy all year round. Sea temperatures vary between 30°C in summer to 21°C in winter and the structure of the reefs offer pinnacles, overhangs, coral arches and much more.

Reef depths vary from 10m to 40m and offer good visibility and fantastic photo opportunities. Not only of the incredible range of coral but of over 6,000 species of fish. The reefs attract a variety of game fish while the coral is home to myriads of brightly coloured smaller fish including schooling banner fish, Moorish idols, butterfly fish, blue striped snappers, barred sweetlips, goldies, and trigger fish.

The reefs of the Bazaruto Archipelago are home to over 1200 species of marine creatures including the rare Dugong.

As an adventure seeker it offers great experiences such as scuba diving and swimming with sharks in its crystal clear water. The candid and vivid scenery of natural landscape gives a divine and exotic experience to tourists. But the ocean is not its only attraction. Visitors can also visit the Gorongosa National Park, one of the wildest national parks in Africa where one can have a true wilderness experience. Before seeking for the above thrills, I would fill up my tummy. Mozambique is known for its strong Portuguese and Arabic influenced cuisine. Staples like piri-piri chicken, seafood curries and hearty soups often gracing restaurant menus. Enjoying a fresh seafood dish at Maputo’s renowned “Mercado do Peixe” (Fish Market) and a “pasteis de nata” (custard tarts) or “bolo de arroz” (rice flour cake) is the first stop I’ll make. The best time to visit this little piece of paradise is between September and November, when the game viewing is at its best, whale migration can be observed, and the weather is calm and warm.

The Bazaruto Archipelago is, in fact, recognised as one of the best destinations in the world for black marlin. The best months for black marlin are between October and the end of January which makes an excellent time for fishing in Mozambique.

To the far south, Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago sits inside a second impressive marine park. This chain of four large islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Santa Isobel and Santa Carolina feel quite different to their northern counterparts.

The Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos are some of the most romantic and secluded beach destinations in the world – ideal for a honeymoon.

The Portuguese influence is felt in dishes such as Peri-Peri (hot and spicy) Prawns and Peri-Peri Chicken.

Many of the tourists to the country visit Mozambique’s beautiful coastline to enjoy swimming and diving in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. What many tourists take away from their holiday are the tasty seafood dishes Mozambique has. Many consider their shellfish such as prawns and crayfish to be the best in the world. In fact, one of the best known Mozambique dishes is Shrimp or prawns done Peri-peri style. Seafood also forms a large part of the local diet, as it is abundant and cheap.

A local dish without any Portuguese influences is Matata which is a seafood stew, usually made using clams in a peanut sauce. Grilled seafood often liberally basted in peri-peri sauce is commonly served along with rice and chips (fries).

The northern regions of Mozambique are famous for their crafts, including sculptures produced by the Makondo people. Lots or art work depicts traditional beliefs, the struggle for independence and the civil war.

Gorongosa National Park is a preserved area in the Great Rift Valley of central Mozambique. Its forests and savannahs are home to lions, hippos and elephants. Lake Urema and its surrounding wetlands and rivers attract scores of water birds. The multitiered Murombodzi Falls spills over jagged rocks on the slopes of Mount Gorongosa. Limestone gorges and bat-filled caves define Cheringoma Plateau

Mozambique is famous for its traditional music, especially its marimba bands. Modern Mozambican music has been likened to Reggae and Calypso.