A stay at Ibo Island Lodge lets guests combine a luxury tropical island holiday with a strong sense of culture and history. Once a primary centre for the slave trade, the remains of the Portuguese colonial influence combined with Arabic trader origins and a chequered pirate past is evident at every turn – from the centuries-old catholic cathedral currently under renovation to the many forts built by both Arab and Portuguese, to protect the island from attacks.
Ibo Island Lodge is a renovated colonial mansion situated on the edge of the island overlooking a promenade and the ocean and comes complete with faded antiques and historical artefacts. A lush, plant filled courtyard opens onto a central area and bar where guests can mingle after a day’s exploration.
For lazy days on the beach, guests are transported by boat to a tiny, picture perfect sand bank where they can splash in the Indian Ocean waters to their hearts’ content or lie under an umbrella, gazing at the big blue view. Traditional Dhow or kayak expeditions are part and parcel of life here and a visit to the centuries-old channels of the nearby mangrove swamps is a must. For the adventurous, diving, fishing and snorkelling expeditions are easily arranged and a visit to Matemo Island is easy by boat.
Every meal reveals mouthwatering specialities from aromatic crab curries to just-cooked lobster. Special occasion? Arrange to have private dinner at low tide on the private sandbank just a short boat ride away.
Ibo Island is famous for its silversmiths and no trip is complete without a visit to these talented craftsmen’s shops. Stepped in centuries of history and oozing romance and intrigue, Ibo Island Lodge is a luxury tropical escape in the heart of the magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago of northern Mozambique.