Real Estate Investor Magazine Mozambique Real Estate Investor Magazine Mozambique 2014 | Page 31

TOURISM M ozambique is often seen as an attractive holiday option to holiday makers, from both near and far. The tropical climate of Mozambique provides the perfect setting in which to experience the summer heat; combined with sandy beaches, afternoon barbeque, scuba diving, snorkeling, and of course the many traditional Mozambican rest and relaxation activities. The political instability of previous years, most notably 2013, where Mozambique saw a drastic decrease in tourist activities, with holiday makers siting safety reasons, has long since passed. The country is now looking to experience a bumper holiday season, which will be a welcome boost for the economy, where the tourism industry plays a substantial role. As the tourist season is fast approaching we have complied a list of the four main tourist areas of Mozambique. We have profiled each area; what to do, where to stay, and how to enjoy true Mozambican hospitality. Ponta D’Ouro: Located at the most Southern tip of Mozambique, about 80km South of Maputo, this quaint little town was built for holiday makers. The majority of holiday makers come from across the border from neighboring South Africa. This town comes alive over the summer period of December and during the Easter holidays in April. The hustle and bustle of development, such as houses being restored to their former glory, coupled with new homes constantly being erected, provides a good dose of laid back charm. A hive of festivities makes this an unforgettable attraction in Mozambique. In Ponta do Ouro, you will be sure to find beautiful white sandy beaches, dense dune forests, amazing diving and an azure sea stretching forever. A very traditional open air market, several ‘cantinas’ (little shops) and eager curio sellers will quench your thirst for shopping, before you make your way to one of the rustic restaurants in town. The beach of Ponta do Ouro is an arc of about 7km, bounded by rocky headlands at the ends of a sand bar and low dunes beside the coast. For these reasons the beach is very protected and suitable for a variety of activities and water sports. Filled to the brim with many tourists from South Africa over the festive season, www.reimag.co.mz this small town becomes a hive of activity in which to celebrate any holiday. Bilene: The town of Bilene, also known as Praia do Bilene, is located approximately 180km North of Maputo, in the province of Gaza. It is known as one of the most popular and tranquil ‘beach towns’ of Mozambique. The peaceful town of Bilene is situated on a hillside overlooking the Uembje Lagoon. This stretch of water is 8km wide and 27km long, and plunges up to depths of 50m, but its so shallow near the shore that it allows one to walk in waist high (approximately 50m) into the lagoon. “Bilene is known as one of the most popular and tranquil ‘beach towns’ of Mozambique.” It is easily accessible by all vehicles and does not need a 4x4 to experience (depending on which side of the lagoon you visit). The tranquility of this magnificent town, situated on the edge of the crystal clear Uembje salt water lagoon, is very relaxing. There are many lodges in which to choose from, most recently the new up-market resort of San Martinho that is located on the immediate side of the lagoon, as you enter Bilene. Bilene provides an easy destination in which to experience the most relaxing of holidays. San Martinho covers a wide range of accommodation options and activities for all family types. Your days can be filled with lounging on the lagoon beach, snorkeling, scuba diving, boating and canoeing up the river to watch one of the most magnificent sunsets that Mozambique has to offer. Bilene is often overlooked as a holiday destination instead of the major holiday hotspots. Bilene has ample activities on offer. It truly is a destination worth visiting. Inhambane: The city of Inhambane is located in the Northern region of Mozambique and is situated in the Inhambane Province. Inhambane is located about 500km North of Maputo. This pristine paradise greets all visitors with glorious beaches, fantastic weather, Mozambique Real Estate Investor 29