Quirimbas Islands

The Quirimbas Islands form a chain of 32 coral islands stretching 250 kilometers along the northern coast of Mozambique in the Indian Ocean.

Portuguese colonizers transformed the islands from Swahili trading posts into colonial settlements during the 16th century, naming them the Islands of Saint Lazarus.

The islands maintain strong linguistic diversity with local communities speaking Swahili, Mwani, and Portuguese while practicing traditional fishing methods using dhow boats.

Travelers reach the Quirimbas Islands through small aircraft or boats departing from Pemba, with the dry season from May to October offering optimal weather conditions.

The Quirimbas National Park encompasses 7,500 square kilometers, featuring marine environments that descend to depths of 400 meters beneath the ocean surface.

Location: Cabo Delgado Province

GPS coordinates: -12.14667,40.57250

Latest update: March 9, 2025 09:34