Ibo Island accommodation, Mozambique

Virtually unknown to the outside world and undisturbed for centuries there is a place where time has stood still. Remote and untouched by commercial developments and one of the most fascinating, idyllic islands you could dream of visiting. This is Ibo Island, or as the locals call it: Ilha do Ibo. For the last 500 years Ibo Island was a prosperous trading post along the stunning coast of East Africa. Three forts, a beautiful old catholic church and numerous ancient trading buildings stand guard over the sea. Pirates, ivory, intrigue and the never to be forgotten slave trade are a part of this tiny palm-fringed coral island’s history. Boundless secrets, history and culture are still contained amongst the marvellous ruins, which date back to the early 1500s.

Ibo Island boasts much more than just historical importance. Easily one of the most un-spoilt destinations in Africa, Ibo also falls within the newly created Quirimbas National Park. Beyond the warm turquoise waters inhabited by turtles and tropical fish, the ocean around Ibo is also home to dolphins, whales and the shy and mysterious dugong. Encounter vast stretches of idyllic beaches and explore some of the world's richest coral reefs. Discover a coastline fringed by tropical islands on an ancient Arab Dhow - still built to the same design as the vessels which a thousand years ago sailed from India. Snack on cashew nuts and tropical fruit and dine on the freshest of seafood of every description.

Guests partake in a multitude of experiences: dive, sail, swim or fish. Become immersed in the unchanged, ancient culture of Ibo and the rare chance to interact with wonderfully hospitable islanders, or simply relax, refresh the senses and soak up the romantic atmosphere. Special activities enable guests to immerse themselves in the unchanged, ancient culture of Ibo and the rare chance to interact with the wonderfully hospitable islanders. Fully guided activities include:

Beach, swim & snorkel: One of the most beautiful and pristine beach in the Quirimbas Archipelago is closely accessed from the island, and one of Ibo’s best kept secrets… A 15 minute motorised boat trip takes you to the most perfect beach surrounded by sea and totally luxurious in seclusion.

Ibo Island historical experience: A guided, often emotional journey recounting the history of Ibo. Guided historical and cultural activities enable guests to immerse themselves in the unchanged, ancient culture of Ibo.

Mangrove excursion: Fully guided, guests will be taken into Ibo’s lush, fertile mangrove channels to understand more about this precious ecosystem and the outstanding bird and marine life it supports.

Sea kayaking: A chance to navigate winding channels with breathtaking scenery or island hop safely under the expert leadership of your guide. With an abundance of birdlife Ibo is also an ornithological paradise. Our sea kayking is in calm, flat waters.

Walking: Ibo Island is a walkers paradise. With only one car on the island everyone walks! Guided walks are available as well as the opportunity to take strolls around the island in your own time and pace to meet the islanders and soak up the unique atmosphere.

Guided nature & bird walks: Ibo sits in a breathtakingly beautiful and unique location surrounded by Indian ocean and coral reefs, the Quirimbas National Park and one of the largest groves of mangroves in Africa. A guided walk is one of the best ways to discover Ibo’s varied flora and fauna and outstanding bird life. Walks can be tailor made to suit your specific interests.

Humpback whales: The whales protect their calves in the calm waters surrounding Ibo. Excellent sightings are possible from August to early November before they migrate.

Massage & healing treatments: Blissful massages, traditional body wraps and scrubs prepared organically using Ibo coarse sea salt, and zesty lemon grass grown locally. The characteristic Ibo Island mussiro ‘white face mask’ is utilised. Traditionally made from the bark of a tree and painted onto the face using a coconut husk brush, the gentle paste ensures skin is protected from the sun and when removed leaves skin silky soft. 

Relax & de-stress: Ibo offers complete tranquillity and you can be as active or relaxed as you wish: at one of the pools set in our tropical gardens, on the roof terrace, on your private veranda, or stroll the island, interact and take in the idyllic scenes of Ibo.

Traditional sailing dhow safaris & cruises: Dhow travel is one of the most traditional and ancient ways of travelling the archipelago. Enjoy relaxing on a traditional Quirimbas sailing dhow with a picnic lunch on Matemo Island or surrounds. A sunset cruise gives you the chance to photograph mother nature's spectacle whilst sipping a cocktail or two.

Darumba River & crocodile country: Opposite Ibo Island by boat we traverse up the Darumba River which is dotted with fascinating shore line fishing villages where local fishermen hunt for prawns and mangrove crabs. Observe the traditional rural lifestyle that surrounds Ibo, and explore the mangroves that support varied bird life and Nile crocodiles.

Price includes accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, teas and coffees, water in the rooms, and mineral water on activities, one guided island historical tour, non-motorised water sports and one boat transfer daily to a private beach (return) as well as Mozambique VAT.

This Ibo Island accommodation is located on the prime waterfront site, and encompasses magnificent mansions each over one hundred years old with walls over a meter thick and lofty high ceilings. The rooms have been individually designed to incorporate the original architecture of the buildings. All are unique and feature wide verandas furnished with hand crafted furniture and soft cushions to relax in island style.

The lodge has two swimming pools to relax by and is set in tropical frangipani and bougainvillea gardens. The main pool is an infinity pool overlooking the sea and perfect for lengths, and a smaller more intimate pool is situated in the gardens. An air-conditioned lounge and a private dinning room as well as a roof terrace restaurant completes the facilities.

Each room as the following facilities:

Air conditioning and ceiling fan, plus large windows for sea breeze

King size extra length hand crafted bed with beautiful mosquito net (twin beds are also available)

Indigenous teak and mahogany handcrafted furniture brass and antique fittings

Solid mahogany wardrobe with hangers and 'chest' safe with lock

Hair dryer and linen gown for use whilst on the island and a range of guest amenities

Water flasks in the rooms plus morning tea and coffee brought to your room

Laundry service

Bathrooms: All rooms have en-suite facilities with twin basins and large showers. Some also have baths and outside showers.

Wining and dining: The restaurant and bar is magnificently situated on the root terrace of the Bela Vista mansion facing west for unforgettable sunsets and affording spectacular views over the bay. Our open-air lounge area is perfect for after dinner drinks under the stars. Meals feature freshly Ibo-grown vegetables, herbs and fruits and combine traditional specialties with Ibo’s specialities - fresh seafood: prawns, lobster, crab, squid and game fish.

Family friendly: Families and children are very welcome at the accommodation. Children 12 years and under stay at 50% of the adult rate.

Baby friendly: Babies and small children are welcome - we have cots and small beds available with mosquito nets.

how to find us

The closest airport to Ibo Island is Pemba International airport (Cabo Delgado). Flights to Pemba are readily available from Nairobi, Dar – Es – Salaam, Johannesburg and Maputo. In Pemba you will be met by a representative and transferred by light aircraft to Ibo Island. Boat and helicopter transfers are available on request.