African Reservations

Inhambane, the name meaning 'the place of the friendly people', is one of the oldest ports on the Eastern Coast of Africa, where, back in the early 16th century, Portuguese explorers established a trading post for slave traders. Ancient sailors would advantage of the calm estuary to stop over, buy goods and replenish for their voyages ahead. Even the Famous Vasco De Gama made Inhambane's trading post a regular place to stop over. Although ships don't often visit Inhambane's port, the harbour still has the largest fleet of working dhow's to this day.

Scuba diving in Inhambane is particularly popular in locations such as Manta Reef and Gallaria. Giant Manta Rays, Whale sharks, Turtles and other marine life are regularly seen and there are many professional scuba diving operations throughout the province. Many tourists are under the impression that they can dive from Inhambane itself, but the closest diving to Inhambane is actually at Praia do Tofo. Tofo is also known as the whale shark Mecca of the world.

One can find most basic facilities and supplies in Inhambane, such as banks, shops, petrol stations, markets, public phones and internet access. Visitors to Inhambane are sure to find the old Portuguese colonial architecture interesting as there are many old buildings in the city, which include the two hundred year old Our Lady of the Conception Catholic Cathedral, and the Old Mosque that was built back in 1840. Local arts and crafts can be viewed and purchased at the local market, with the skillfully made woven straw baskets and mats being most notable.

Travel 2 hours by air on LAM airlines from Johannesburg to Inhambane with 3 weekly scheduled flights.