Family Adventure at Lake Niassa

Embracing Gorongosa's Wild Heart

Today was nothing short of magical. Leaving the tranquil shores of Lake Niassa behind for a day, we ventured into the heart of Mozambique to experience the renowned Gorongosa National Park. It was a day filled with incredible wildlife sightings, vibrant local culture, and the kind of family bonding that makes these trips so worthwhile. Plus, a little bit of shopping!


Explore the diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife of Gorongosa National Park, a breathtaking natural sanctuary in Mozambique.

Our day started early with a hearty breakfast at Roaz do Indico. I had heard great things about their pastries, and they did not disappoint! Fueled up, we began our journey to Gorongosa. The drive itself was an adventure, with the landscape transforming from lush lakeside views to sprawling savannahs. Fatima kept the kids entertained with stories of Chibuto, my hometown, and tales of our ancestors, which always fills me with a sense of pride and connection.

As we entered Gorongosa National Park, the air crackled with anticipation. Nelson, ever the curious one, was glued to the window, binoculars in hand. Sheila, usually more interested in her dolls, was equally captivated. It wasn't long before we spotted our first elephants, majestic creatures grazing peacefully in the distance. I remember telling Nelson and Sheila about how elephants are considered sacred in some Mozambican cultures, symbols of wisdom and strength. Fatima smiled, remembering the elephant carvings her grandfather used to make.

Our guide, a local expert named Antonio, was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about the park's history and its ongoing restoration efforts. He explained how Gorongosa, once devastated by civil war, has been reborn as a haven for biodiversity. It’s truly inspiring to witness such a remarkable conservation success story unfold. We learned that philanthropist Greg Carr partnered with the Mozambican government to rebuild Gorongosa, investing millions in restoring landscapes, reintroducing wildlife, and involving local communities.

The earth has music for those who listen.

We continued our safari, spotting a variety of wildlife – graceful antelopes, playful baboons, and a dazzling array of birds. Antonio pointed out a lilac-breasted roller, its vibrant plumage a flash of color against the green landscape. I tried to capture the moment with my camera, hoping to share the beauty with everyone back home in Edmonton. I even managed to capture a shot of a fish eagle soaring above Lake Urema, a truly spectacular sight.

For lunch, we stopped at Solange, a charming restaurant near the park. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled fish and matapa, a traditional Mozambican dish made from cassava leaves. The kids devoured their food, energized by the morning’s adventures. Over lunch, Fatima and I talked about how important it is for Nelson and Sheila to understand their heritage, to appreciate the beauty and resilience of Mozambique.

In the afternoon, we opted for a guided bush walk, wanting to experience the wilderness up close. Antonio led us through the bush, teaching us about animal tracks and the local flora. Sheila was a bit hesitant at first, but Antonio’s gentle encouragement soon had her pointing out different types of plants and asking endless questions. Nelson, of course, was in his element, pretending to be a wildlife tracker.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back towards Lake Niassa. The golden light cast a magical glow over the landscape, creating a scene of breathtaking beauty. We stopped briefly at Lake Malawi for dinner. The restaurant had stunning views of the lake, and the food was delicious. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable day.

Before heading back to our lodge, we made a detour to the Feira de Artesanato, Flores e Gastronomia de Maputo. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back to Edmonton. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, filled with colorful crafts, fragrant flowers, and the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine. Fatima and Sheila were immediately drawn to the stalls selling capulanas, brightly colored fabrics used for clothing and decoration. Nelson, surprisingly, was fascinated by the wood carvings, particularly the intricate animal figures. I picked up a few small carvings for my friends back in Canada, and Fatima bought a beautiful capulana to make a dress for Sheila. I even found a vendor selling spices, and I couldn't resist buying a small bag of piri-piri to add some Mozambican flavor to my cooking back home.

Back at our lodge, as the kids drifted off to sleep, Fatima and I sat on the veranda, listening to the sounds of the African night. We talked about the day’s adventures, the incredible wildlife, the vibrant market, and the sense of connection we felt to this land. It was a day that reminded us of the importance of family, the beauty of nature, and the enduring spirit of Mozambique.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Likoma Island. I've heard it's a hidden gem with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Lago's Bar in the evening. I've heard they make a mean caipirinha, and I could certainly use one after today's adventures. Until then, boa noite from Mozambique!

I did forget the insect repellent and waterproof backpack, but those can be easily replaced at a store nearby.