Situated in the magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago
off the coast of Northern Mozambique. Matemo Island is an unspoilt, unexplored
island paradise, with beautiful white beaches and thousands of palm trees
swaying in the breeze. Matemo is 8 kilometres in length and 3 kilometres
wide - a magical destination with private beaches and countless coves
to be discovered and blissful surroundings to be experienced.
Experience
an Island holiday of unspoilt beauty, breathtaking scenery, spectacular
marine life and extreme relaxation.
How to get there?
Guests can fly to Pemba Airport in Mozambique from Johannesburg and Dar es
Salaam. There are also daily connections from Maputo. This is followed by
a 30 minutes scenic flight to Matemo Island.
The drive to the resort passes through seaside villages of thatched mud huts
shaded by swaying palms, with Quimvani women along the roadside, their faces
masked in white - paste from the mussiro plant - used to moisturize the skin. |
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| Accommodation |
| Matemo Island
Resort |
| Matemo Island Resort is on the North Western corner
of the island and looks over what must be one of Africa's
most spectacular beaches. The Lodge is an unspoilt,
unexplored island paradise, with beautiful white beaches
and thousands of palm trees swaying in the breeze.
Framed through the sweeping Moorish arch of the entrance
is a crescent-shaped beach fronting water so radiant
it hurts the eyes. The resort's man-made elements
are equally stunning, all Afro-Arab opulence: a thatched-roof
lounge is brightened by Zanzibari daybeds piled high
with colourful Moroccan cushions with stained-glass
lanterns lining the walls.
The resort consists of 24 air-conditioned chalets,
idyllically situated just 10 metres from the beach.
All chalets are en-suite with indoor and outdoor showers
and a custom-made bath. All chalets have air conditioning
and the convenience of mini-bars and tea/coffee facilities.
Persian rugs and teak four-poster beds outfit the
wooden villas, all of which are set along a private
beach. Sliding glass doors open onto a private veranda
equipped with a sea-facing hammock.
The main communal area of the lodge is on a small
hill, so you have great views of the beach whilst
having your breakfast, or enjoying sundowners in the
spacious bar and lounge. There is also a good-sized
swimming pool, not that you really need it when the
warm, clear and calm Indian Ocean is only metres from
your chalet.
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What to see
For those whom need more than beach then take a stroll through
the lush gardens and discover a multitude of birds that
inhabit the island plus the migratory visitors to the island.
For a real treat, take a stroll along the Western beach
and see Flamingos preening and feasting themselves in the
shallow waters.
What
to do
Diving
Diving at Matemo is considered as some of the best in the
world.
Fishing
Fishing at Matemo can be enjoyed either by boat or from
the beach. The game fishing in the waters surrounding Matemo
Island is nothing short of spectacular. Game fish species
found include Kingfish, Barracuda, Dorado, Queenfish, Serra,
Wahoo, Yellowfin Tuna and Sailfish. All billfish are strictly
catch-and-release. Shore fishing can be done either from
the sand spit or the rocks below the bar area.
Snorkelling
There are a number of excellent sites where snorkellers
will be able to appreciate the stunning tropical reefs,
whales, dolphins, marine turtles and other exotic marine
life. Self-guided snorkelling takes place off the beach
to the coral areas and sand flats; guided snorkelling to
the reefs by boat.
Ibo Island Trips
The excursion to Ibo Island by boat is a mere 20 to 30 minutes.
Dolphins may be encountered on the way. The tour begins
at the age-old harbour followed by a gentle walk through
the city and then on to the fort, where locally made jewellery
is on sale.
Whale watching
Whale watching in the passage or outer areas occurs during
August to November.
Hiking Trails
Follow one of our coastal footpaths around the island. Enjoy
the multitude of flora species and listen for the call of
the Fish Eagles or the warning of the Lilac Breasted Roller.
Stargazing
The clear skies above the island are ideal for stargazing.
As there is no interfering artificial light from nearby
cities nor any pollution in the skies to contend with, this
is the perfect place to lie back and study the celestial
treasures of Matemo Island.
Bird watching
Rarely seen species of birds, a vast range of Palaearctic
Migrants and a variety of wader's species can be seen
around the island and tidal pools.
Village Tour
Guided village tours with will take you through some of
the villages on the island. Experience the life of the island
villagers and their customs. Enjoy the age-old skills of
dhow and dwelling building.
Sunset Cruise
Sunset Cruises provide the perfect form of relaxation after
a long day. Enjoy a cruise on our various routes as dictated
by the tides and wind.
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