Mozambique is something of an underrated gem. While it may not be the first African destination to spring to mind due to its lack of safari options at present, the coast offers some of the best beaches on the continent and is something of an escapist's dream. So why not close your eyes and dream yourself away to Mozambique (and then promptly open your eyes so you can read why!)
D is for Decision...
Once you have made the (correct) decision to head to Mozambique, you now get to choose between the Bazaruto Archipelago in the south and the Quirimbas Archipelago in the north (hint: it's really a win-win situation). While the Quirimbas Archipelago is better known, with its famous (and completely fabulous) diving, great hotels and beautiful beaches, those with a penchant for the intrepid should head to the relatively undiscovered Bazaruto Archipelago. Having recently visited myself I can attest to the beauty of this little African hideaway. With its wild, white-sand beaches and jewel bright waters, this particular archipelago couldn't be ""hotter right now"".
R is for Relaxation...
Picture this: you're lying on the beach with your feet buried in the warm, powdery sand, listening to the rustle of palm trees swaying in the wind and the hush of the foaming waves gently lapping on the shore - the word heaven springs to mind. With a 2,500km coastline typified by endless white sandy beaches, the chances of you finding a spot untouched by the human hand (or foot) are extremely high. The relaxation isn't just confined to the beach either; hop aboard a traditional Dhow boat, ice cold beer in hand, and drift through the clear waters, admiring the scenery. If rest, relaxation and romance are on the holiday wish list, Mozambique is definitely the place to go.
E is for Excitement...
Calling all water babies! If water sports are your thing then Mozambique has plenty to offer. With surfing, kite surfing, kayaking and an impressive array of diving available, it's all too tempting to put down that murder mystery paperback and get involved, if only to be able to tell people back home that you did at least one exciting thing! You may even catch a glimpse of the rather comical Dugong - a sea creature often mistaken for a hippo. Mozambique has enough activities on offer for as much or as little energy as you can muster up.
A is for Adventure...
While Mozambique is a great beach destination in and of itself, it also makes for a great bush and beach combo when done in conjunction with either South Africa or Tanzania. So why not indulge your adventurous side and team Mozambique with one of these fantastic bush destinations? There are, however, thrills aplenty in Mozambique itself - our top pick would be a helicopter tour over the Archipelago, soaring over the turquoise waters and enjoying a kaleidoscopic array of colour.
M is for Magic...
M agic - Are you still dreaming with us? Picture swaying softly in a hammock, rocked ever so slightly by the cool sea breeze, looking up at the night's sky. At night, the Archipelago islands display a whole other explosion of sights for the human eye. The sky is covered in a blanket of stars, and shooting stars, giving the islands a magical feeling.
Mozambique'a Bazaruto Archipelago may be off the tourist radar at the moment but it won't stay that way for long so now is the time to go and make that dream a reality!