About Ibo Dhow Safari
The Ibo Dhow Safari, is a mobile island-hopping safari, offering comfortable fly-camping on uninhabited island beaches.
Operated by Ibo Island Lodge, with a full support crew looking after you, this is a unique way to explore Mozambique's most remote coastline.
Ibo Island Lodge developed these dhow safaris as a novel way of exploring the archipelago for those with a spirit of adventure and looking for something totally different. A dhow safari is best combined with the comfort of a stay at Ibo Island Lodge.
Accommodation
Up to 8 tents
Children
Open
All year
Traveller reviews of Ibo Dhow Safari
2 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 7 Jul 2017, 4 nights
"Excellent Dhow Safari"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 20 Aug 2013, 3 nights
"Wonderful Dhow safari"
Overall rating: Excellent







Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the holidays. See our 24 pictures of Ibo Dhow Safari to get the candid view.
View galleryIbo Dhow Safari: Our full report
The Ibo Dhow Safari, is a mobile island-hopping safari, offering comfortable fly-camping on uninhabited island beaches.
Operated by Ibo Island Lodge, with a full support crew looking after you, this is a unique way to explore Mozambique's most remote coastline.
We have not yet had a chance to experience the Ibo Dhow Safari, however here are some details that Ibo Island Lodge have given us themselves.
Guests travel between islands using a mix of sea kayaks and sailing on the dhow. Explore up wide coastal river mouths, teeming with red listed bird species and pristine mangrove forests. Snorkel off deserted white sandbanks in turquoise seas, and sleep in mobile fly-camps on uninhabited tropical islands.
The dhow safaris are led by experienced guides, and are backed up by a 12-meter traditional dhow, with a Mozambican skipper, crew and a chef on board to whip up seafood feasts around the campfire! The crew handles all the camp duties, leaving you free to kayak or walk around the islands and explore, relax, swim or snorkel.
These safaris look perfect for families or groups of friends. They can be tailored to suit various budgets, length of safari and any special interests or needs. Alternatively, Ibo Island Lodge also has set scheduled international departures of 7 nights that you can join throughout the year.
Geographics
- Location
- Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique
- Ideal length of stay
- The minimum stay that’s recommend is three nights. This will give you a good idea about the island hopping experience and allow time to visit the various islands and mainland highlights. Though it would be very easy to spend a week here exploring and relaxing.
- Directions
- There is an airstrip nearby on Ibo Island, which is a short 20-minute flight in a light aircraft from Pemba. Pemba is accessible from Johannesburg with SA Airlink or Mozambique Airlines (LAM) and also from Dar-es-Salaam and Nairobi on LAM.
Its then about a three and a half hour road transfer from Pemba takes you north through the Quirimbas National Park to the little fishing village of Mucojo which is the starting point of most of the safaris. - Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- Breakfast: Starts with local tropical fruit, cereals, and freshly baked bread. A hot breakfast cooked over an open fire is also on offer.
Lunches: In keeping with the tropical island atmosphere, these are lighter meals served Alfresco on the beaches or under the shade of the main safari tent. Seafood wraps, prawn or kingfish kebabs with traditional island sweet chili sauce, served with fresh bread are typical specialties, followed by a fresh fruit salad or pancakes and Ibo honey.
Dinner: Is always cooked over the open fire and depends on what is freshly caught or bought from local fishermen each day with seafood and fresh line fish being the main star attraction!
Any vegetarians and non-seafood eaters can be accommodated with prior notice and are well catered for. Though it's vital to let us know in advance, due to the remote location. Children are also easily catered for with pasta dishes, plain grilled seafood, and lighter options. Your chef is very flexible. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included here; they are paid for as extras.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- These offbeat family beach holidays in Mozambique are operated by Ibo Lodge, and are best for families with older children. You’ll travel to pristine beaches by kayaks and a private, staffed dhow. Snorkel; visit Ibo's schools; join bird walks, football and boat races!
- See ideas for Family holidays in Mozambique
- Honeymoons
- Those looking for a unique honeymoon to Mozambique can do a private dhow safari for 2, island hopping and camping in remote and romantic destinations with just your crew there to spoil you. Combine this with a stay at the very luxurious Ibo Island Lodge for an idyllic honeymoon.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Mozambique
- Birdwatching
- The Quirimbas Archipelago doesn't have the density of species that you'll often find in mainland Africa, but the birdwatching at Ulumbwa River and Ibo Island is particularly good, with many coastal wading species seen.
- See ideas for Birdwatching in Mozambique
- Diving & snorkelling
- Northern Mozambique has areas of pristine corals – and good snorkelling is possible from several hot spots on the safari. The diving in this area can also be very good, although there isn't currently any commercial diving operation here.
- See ideas for Diving & snorkelling in Mozambique
- Cultural Experiences
- Visiting the traditional fishing villages in the Quirimbas isn't staged; it's a friendly way to experience a real slice of African island life. Fishermen build dhows on the beach, silversmiths make jewellery using ancient techniques, and curious children call out greetings.
- See ideas for Cultural Experiences in Mozambique
Children
- Attitude towards children
- These safaris are perfect for older children and families who are fairly active and adventurous.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Children are welcome.
- Special activities & services
- There are specific activities that are suitable for children like guided bird walks, kayak and dhow races, kayaking, football, swing-ball, snorkelling and visits to Ibo's schools.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes – although only for older children, not toddlers
Communications
- Communications
- There is mobile phone reception on the islands.
- TV & radio
- No TV or radio.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- For minor injuries there is a first aid box. The nearest doctor is in Pemba, on the mainland, about a 20-minute flight away.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers on the dhow and each island camp, and emergency procedures are in place.
Activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service - Extra Charge
- Money
- Cash is required for any payments made on the island – US$, Mozambican MTS or South African Rand are accepted. There are no credit card facilities here.
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Ibo Dhow Safari's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Ibo Dhow Safari.
Other lodges in Quirimbas Archipelago
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Ibo Island Lodge
Ibo Island Lodge offers an amazing insight into traditional Mozambique island life, plus relaxing dhow trips and canoe excursions.

Medjumbe Private Island
Medjumbe Lodge stands on a tiny and fairly remote private island, in the middle of the Quirimbas. It's the flagship lodge of a small chain and the snorkeling and diving in this area is excellent.

Mogundula Private Island
Brand new to the Quirimbas Archipelago, Mogundula Private Island looks set to be a superb luxury option.
When to go to Quirimbas Archipelago
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Ibo Dhow Safari in Quirimbas Archipelago
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Mozambique in January
January is one of the wettest, hottest and most humid months in Mozambique, with average daytime temperatures reaching the low 30s °C, dropping only to around 24°C at night. Although the rain falls mostly as tropical downpours in late afternoon/evening, with the rest of the time sunny, there are definitely better times to visit.
Diving is generally good, but visibility can be limited. Dolphins are abundant, but humpback whales have moved out and this is the last month with a reasonable chance of spotting whale sharks and manta rays. On beaches, turtles lay their eggs and by the end of the month some are beginning to hatch.
After the busy Christmas/New Year period lodges are almost empty, so it’s a good time to avoid the “crowds”.
- One of the wettest & hottest months, with high humidity
- Diving is fair but visibility can be poor
- Great for dolphin viewing
- Turtles laying eggs, which begin to hatch by end of month
- The low season so lodges much quieter, but for a reason
Our view
A time to avoid if possible
Weather in January
Mozambique in February
The hot, wet weather continues, with rainfall at its peak in February in the south, and temperatures as high as those experienced in January; this is also the start of the cyclone season. Such storms are relatively rare but when they do occur they bring widespread devastation and disruption. Although the sea is wonderfully warm, beaches can be pretty windy and diving at this time of the year can be more challenging, with choppier waters and sometimes pretty poor visibility.
As such, lodges tend to have good availability. The chances of seeing manta rays and whale sharks are minimal now, but turtles are still laying eggs followed by hatchlings making a dash for the ocean.
- Rain & hot weather peaks, as does the humidity
- Start of the cyclone season
- Diving conditions can be more challenging
- Great month for turtle watching
- Warm seas
Our view
A time to avoid if possible
Weather in February
Mozambique in March
Rainfall is still high, peaking in the north – where it continues for longer than in the south – and the threat of tropical cyclones remains (2019 saw Idai wreak havoc). Temperatures fall ever so slightly but it’s still hot, with daily temperatures averaging 30°C and nights around 23°C. It’s still pretty humid but this begins to drop away towards the end of the month when the weather generally starts to improve.
Diving, as in previous months, can be OK with warm seas, but conditions are unpredictable, and visibility is still only fair. Of the key marine species, only dolphins are now regularly seen and the last of the turtle hatchlings make for the sea. Availability is usually good, but when Easter falls in March, lodges can get booked up early.
- Rainfall eases but still a chance of significant downpours
- Cyclones remain a threat
- Diving is reasonable, but visibility can be hit and miss
- Turtle spotting excellent
- Although low season, Easter can get booked up quickly
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Mozambique in April
Although rain still lingers in the north, the rainy season in the south draws to an end. Temperatures are still high but as the rain peters out, humidity drops considerably and so it feels much more comfortable. There is still a small risk of tropical cyclones (as in 2019, when cyclone Kenneth hit), but these are usually extremely rare.
Diving conditions improve with increased visibility and the sea is still warm, so April can be a lovely month for diving or a beach holiday. It is also excellent for fishing, with most of the game fish species being present. Lodges begin to see more visitors and can get especially busy over Easter.
- Rainy season comes to an end in the south
- Good weather for a beach holiday sets in
- Diving, improves with increased visibility & warm seas
- Excellent fishing conditions
- Visitor numbers begin to increase, especially around Easter
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Mozambique in May
As the rains cease in the north, May marks the start of the dry season across Mozambique (although the odd freak cyclone has been known to make landfall, this is exceptional). The days are warm and sunny, with low humidity and temperatures around 27°C, while evenings start to cool to around 16°C. It’s a really good month to visit coastal areas and as such the lodges get a bit busier and prices start to rise.
Diving continues to improve with good visibility and calm waters, and the excellent game fishing conditions continue. Lastly, Mozambique’s biggest international music festival, Azgo, takes place in Maputo during May.
- Start of the dry season: virtually no rainfall & humidity drops
- Diving continues to improve with good visibility & calm seas
- Excellent fishing conditions continue
- Azgo international music festival in Maputo
- Lodges get busier & prices increase
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Mozambique in June
Good weather continues with pleasantly warm days, clear skies and a bit of a breeze – ideal for a relaxing beach holiday. Diving conditions are near perfect with good visibility, though note that sea temperatures are dropping by a couple of degrees. Southern right whales start appearing along the coastline. The excellent deep-sea fishing continues. On Ibo Island in the Quirimbas Archipelago, 24 June sees the Feast of St John the Baptist – celebrated as Kueto Siriwala (“to not forget your roots”) day. Expect dhow races as well as traditional music and dance.
Lodges are getting busier and with Mozambique’s month-long summer holiday beginning in late June, it’s advisable to book well in advance. This is one of the best months and prices increase, reflecting the move into this peak season.
- Weather now very good
- Southern right whales start appearing along the coast
- Diving conditions are superb
- Kueto Siriwala festival on Ibo
- Lodges getting busier & therefore prices higher
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in June
Mozambique in July
The dry season is now in full swing so clear blue skies abound. Warm, sunny days and cool evenings continue, with average temperatures between 25°C during the day and 16°C at night. July is definitely one of the best months to visit the Mozambique coast, though beaches can be a little windy. Humpback whales begin making their long annual migration from Antarctica to the warmer waters off East Africa to calve; if you’re lucky you may get to see them, especially at the end of the month.
Diving and snorkelling conditions are reaching optimum levels with generally excellent visibility, though the water is now chilly by Mozambique standards. Fishing is still very good for most game species. Lodges are filling up due to northern hemisphere school holidays.
- Warm sunny days & cool evenings
- Diving conditions now almost perfect
- Humpback whales begin arriving
- Fishing still very good
- School holiday time, so lodges are filling up
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Mozambique in August
As in July, the days are lovely and warm – great for lying on a beach, though there’s a slight chill to the evenings and the sea is at its coolest at around 16°C. This is one of the best times to visit Mozambique, and is a great month for diving as visibility now reaches its peak, but it can be a bit windy. Humpback whale numbers are increasing, and manta rays and whale sharks start to appear, though are not a common sighting.
Fishing drops off a bit but some species such as sailfish and queen mackerel are still taking bait. August is very popular – probably the busiest month – so lodges can be quite full and family-friendly resorts will have more children around.
- Days still nice & warm with cooler, but pleasant evenings
- Optimal diving conditions.
- Whales numbers increase; the odd manta ray & whale shark may be seen
- Fishing starts to tail off a little
- Lodges at high occupancy levels, so can be busy
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Mozambique in September
In September, temperatures begin to climb and warm, sunny days continue, although evenings are still cooler (averaging around 28°C in the day and 19°C at night); this is historically the driest month in Mozambique. Whale watching is getting even better as numbers increase and, as in August, diving and snorkelling conditions are excellent with great visibility.
Sightings of whale sharks and manta rays begin to increase, and while dolphins are seen throughout the year, September is the start of the best dolphin-viewing period. The fishing is good with marlin, sailfish and kingfish all possibilities. Although the school holidays have ended it is still high season and still a popular month – it’s our favourite month here.
- Arguably our favourite month
- Temperatures start rising – the weather is beautiful
- Superb diving & snorkelling conditions continue
- Sightings of whale sharks & mantas rays pick up
- Great for dolphin viewing & whales still present in good numbers
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Mozambique in October
October is the hottest of the dry months with daytime temperatures peaking at around 30°C and evenings feeling balmy at around 20°C. With the heat building, the rains can begin right at the end of the month. The fishing is very good, especially for the bigger game fish like marlin.
October is also considered the best month for whale watching, and one of the best for dolphins, which are present in good numbers. The chances of seeing whale sharks and manta rays also increase as the seas warm up; this, and the next two months, are best for sightings. Like August and September, October is also excellent for diving and snorkelling, with superb visibility, thus it’s another popular month, and carries peak season prices.
- Hottest of the dry months
- Excellent whale & dolphin watching
- Chances of seeing whale sharks & mantas increase
- Diving conditions remain excellent
- Fishing for certain game fish species is very good
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Mozambique in November
As the dry season ends and the wet season starts, the weather becomes a lot more unpredictable. Days are very hot with humidity increasing, though rainfall is still fairly low. November heralds the return of turtles coming ashore to nest and lay their eggs. With visibility still pretty clear, diving and snorkelling conditions remain good. There is still a decent chance of seeing humpback whales before they begin heading off towards the end of the month, whilst sightings of whale sharks and manta rays remain good, and dolphin sightings excellent.
Fishing for certain species, especially kingfish and marlin, remains excellent. It’s no longer high season so prices of some lodges come down.
- Days hot but weather becomes a somewhat unpredictable
- Diving still good
- Start of the turtle-nesting season; humpback whales begin to leave
- Good month for dolphins, whale sharks & mantas
- Lodge prices starting to come down
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Mozambique in December
Days are still hot, with rising humidity making it feel a lot stickier. Average daytime temperatures hit 31°C+, with evenings around 23°C. December is one of the rainiest months, but expect short sharp thunderstorms as opposed to lengthy rainfall. The turtle-nesting season is now in full swing, so seeing females laying their eggs becomes a possibility. As humpback whales head back south, sightings become scarce, but dolphins, whale sharks and manta rays are still present in good numbers.
Fishing for marlin, bonito and kingfish is still excellent. Sea visibility is generally good, but it can become a little hit and miss as the sun and warm seas encourage plankton blooms. Christmas and New Year are very popular periods despite invariably carrying price supplements.
- Days are hot & a lot more humid
- Turtles laying their eggs on beaches
- Whale season is now largely over
- Dolphins, whale sharks & mantas are still present
- Christmas & New Year get booked up early, & cost more
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December

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