Family Adventure at Lake Niassa

Reconnecting with Mozambique's Natural Heart

Today was a day I had been eagerly anticipating – a visit to Gorongosa National Park. As someone born in Mozambique, I’ve always felt a deep connection to its natural beauty. I wanted to share this with Fatima and the kids, to show them a part of my heritage that's both stunning and vital. After hearing so much about Gorongosa's revival, I knew we had to experience it firsthand. It was a day filled with incredible sights, delicious food, and moments that reminded me why I wanted to bring my family back to Mozambique in the first place.


Explore the rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes of Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique's premier wildlife sanctuary and eco-tourism destination.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Roaz do Indico. I wanted us to have a traditional Mozambican start, so I ordered *pão com chouriço* (bread with sausage) and strong, sweet coffee. The kids, Nelson and Sheila, were a bit hesitant at first, but Fatima and I encouraged them to try it, reminding them that experiencing new things is part of the adventure. Nelson, ever the brave one, dove right in and declared it delicious, while Sheila took a bit more coaxing but eventually agreed it was quite good. Fuelled up, we set off for Gorongosa National Park. The drive itself was an experience, with the landscape gradually transforming from lush greenery to the more rugged terrain that characterizes the park's surroundings. I reminisced about similar drives I took with my family as a child, the anticipation building with every kilometer.

As we entered Gorongosa, I was immediately struck by its vastness. The park stretches across 4,000 square kilometers, encompassing everything from grasslands and savannah to forests and seasonal pans. It’s located at the southern end of the Great African Rift Valley, a place of immense geological and ecological significance. The air felt different here – cleaner, wilder, full of promise. Our guide, a local Mozambican named Antonio, greeted us with a warm smile and a wealth of knowledge about the park. He explained that Gorongosa had suffered greatly during the Mozambican Civil War, with wildlife populations decimated by as much as 95%. But thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the park is now experiencing a remarkable restoration.

To witness the resurgence of life in Gorongosa, after so much devastation, is a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of human dedication.

Our first stop was the park's central area, near Lake Urema. Antonio pointed out various species of birds, from vibrant kingfishers to majestic fish eagles. Sheila was particularly fascinated, pulling out her little notebook to sketch the birds she saw. Nelson, on the other hand, was more interested in spotting larger animals. It wasn't long before he got his wish. A herd of elephants appeared in the distance, their massive forms moving gracefully across the plains. We watched in awe as they approached a watering hole, their trumpeting calls echoing through the air. Fatima squeezed my hand, her eyes shining with excitement. “It’s even more beautiful than I imagined,” she whispered.

Antonio shared stories about the elephants, explaining their importance to the ecosystem and the ongoing efforts to protect them from poaching. He also spoke about the local communities that live around the park and the ways in which they benefit from conservation efforts. It was inspiring to hear how the park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a source of sustainable livelihoods for the people who call this region home. He highlighted the work being done in the local schools and the after-school clubs for girls, emphasizing the importance of education in building a better future. This resonated deeply with me, as I believe that providing opportunities for education is one of the most important things we can do for the next generation.

For lunch, we stopped at Solange, a local restaurant just outside the park. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled fish and *matapa* (cassava leaves cooked in peanut sauce), another Mozambican staple. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to savor the flavors of the region. Over lunch, we discussed the morning’s sightings and planned our afternoon adventure.


Experience the flavors of Mozambique at Solange, where local ingredients meet international cuisine in the heart of Beira.

After lunch, Antonio took us to a different part of the park, an area known for its diverse plant life. We walked through a forest of towering trees, their branches forming a canopy overhead. Antonio explained that Gorongosa is home to over 75,000 species, making it one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. He pointed out various medicinal plants, explaining their traditional uses and the ongoing research to unlock their potential. I was particularly interested in the conservation efforts related to Mount Gorongosa, which had been heavily deforested during the war. The reforestation projects, involving local farmers planting coffee trees, are not only helping to restore the ecosystem but also providing a sustainable income for the community. It’s a win-win situation that showcases the power of combining conservation with economic development.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we made a stop at Casa Elefante, a local shop that supports artisans from the surrounding communities. Fatima and Sheila were delighted by the colorful textiles, intricate carvings, and handmade jewelry. We purchased a few items as souvenirs, knowing that our money would go directly to supporting the local economy. I picked up a small wooden carving of an elephant, a reminder of the majestic creatures we had encountered earlier in the day.


Discover the vibrant textiles of Mozambique at Casa Elefante, a must-visit fabric store in the heart of Maputo, showcasing local artistry and culture.

Our final stop of the day was at Lake Malawi, a restaurant overlooking the lake. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the water, we enjoyed a delicious dinner of fresh seafood. The kids were tired but happy, recounting their favorite moments from the day. Nelson was still buzzing about the elephants, while Sheila couldn't stop talking about the colorful birds. Fatima and I simply savored the moment, grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with our children.


Experience unparalleled beauty at Lake Malawi – Africa's jewel with stunning waters, diverse marine life & vibrant culture.

As we drove back to our lodge, I reflected on the day's events. Gorongosa National Park is more than just a place of natural beauty; it’s a symbol of resilience, hope, and the power of community. It’s a place where wildlife and people can thrive together, where conservation and development go hand in hand. I felt a sense of pride in my Mozambican heritage and a renewed commitment to sharing it with my family. I am also glad I didn't forget the sunscreen, but I do regret not bringing insect repellent and a waterproof backpack. I will need these tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Chizumulu Island, one of the two islands in Lake Niassa. I am excited for another day filled with exploration and discovery, and I know that it will be another opportunity to create lasting memories with my loved ones. I am particularly looking forward to trying some local drinks at Captain Gus Bar and restaurant.

Before heading to bed, Fatima and I spent some time looking through the photos we had taken throughout the day. Each image captured a special moment – the elephants at the watering hole, Sheila sketching the birds, Nelson's wide-eyed amazement, and Fatima’s radiant smile. These are the memories that we will cherish for years to come, a reminder of our family adventure at Lake Niassa and the enduring beauty of Mozambique.