Mozambique

Mozambique is a destination on the up, thanks to a period of sustained stability since the civil war ended in 1992 and a wealth of natural attractions – in particular its long stretches of unspoilt coastline. With their palm-fringed beaches and pristine coral reefs, the beautiful islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago in the south or the Quirimbas Archipelago in the north make the perfect beach holiday destination.

The towns of the mainland have attractive Portuguese colonial-era architecture, and a colourful local culture. The capital, Maputo, has many places of historical and cultural interest to explore, as well as restaurants specialising in seafood for which Mozambique is famous. Best of all, the country aims to take on its neighbours (South Africa and Tanzania) at the ‘bush and beach’ game, and Gorongosa game reserve is now a genuine alternative to the Kruger and Serengeti.

More 'bush' options are in development, but for the time being, however, the prime attraction remains the ’beach’ element, and particularly the immaculate lodges on the islands off the coast, all of which we have visited and can strongly recommend. Mozambique has several marine national parks in the Indian Ocean and several of the Original Travel team have dived here and are in general agreement that this is one of the best dive spots anywhere on the planet.