Family Adventure to Vilanculos: Exploring Mozambique's Coastal Gem

Vilanculos Adventures Unfold

Today was a vibrant mix of adventure and relaxation, a true taste of what Vilanculos has to offer. From horseback riding along the coast to savoring the local flavors, it was a day filled with memorable moments. The warm August weather, with highs around 26°C, made every activity even more enjoyable. It's days like these that remind me why I wanted to bring my family back to Mozambique, to share these experiences and reconnect with my heritage.

The day started early with a hearty breakfast at Leopoldina's. Fatima, the kids, and I enjoyed a spread of fresh fruits, local bread, and strong Mozambican coffee. It's always a pleasure to start the day with a good meal, and Leopoldina's didn't disappoint. The kids were especially excited about the day's adventures, and their enthusiasm was contagious. After breakfast, we headed out for our Island Safaris excursion. The plan was to explore the coast and get a feel for the local landscapes. The air was fresh and the sun was already promising a beautiful day as we set off.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Mozambique at Island Safaris, a must-visit tourist attraction in Vilankulos.
Our first stop was Mozambique Horse Safari. Sheila was a little nervous at first, but the guides were fantastic, quickly putting her at ease. Nelson, of course, was fearless and couldn't wait to get on his horse. Fatima and I also enjoyed the ride, trotting along the beach and taking in the stunning views of the Bazaruto Archipelago. The experience was truly special, a unique way to connect with the natural beauty of Vilanculos. As we rode, I couldn't help but think about my childhood in Chibuto, riding donkeys through the countryside. It felt good to share a similar experience with my own children, even if it was on horseback and along a different coast. It was a reminder of the simple joys that connect us across generations.


Experience the beauty of Mozambique on horseback at Mozambique Horse Safari, an unforgettable adventure in nature's paradise.

There is something magical about experiencing the Mozambican landscape from the back of a horse, feeling the warm breeze and hearing the waves crash against the shore.

After the horse safari, we were all quite hungry, so we made our way to Ti Ze Restaurant for lunch. This place came highly recommended, and I was eager to try their seafood. We ordered a variety of dishes, including peri-peri prawns and grilled fish. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Fatima particularly enjoyed the prawns, while Nelson devoured the grilled fish. Sheila, ever the picky eater, surprised us by trying and actually liking the peri-peri sauce. The restaurant had a vibrant atmosphere, and the service was friendly and welcoming. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after our morning adventure. As we ate, we chatted about our favorite parts of the horse safari and made plans for the rest of the afternoon. I was particularly pleased to see my family enjoying the local cuisine, embracing the flavors of my homeland.


Discover authentic Mozambican cuisine at Ti Ze Restaurant in Vilankulos—a culinary delight with ocean views and warm hospitality.
With our bellies full, we decided to spend the afternoon exploring the town and relaxing on the beach. Vilanculos is a charming place, with a laid-back vibe and friendly locals. We strolled through the local markets, where Fatima bargained for souvenirs and the kids were fascinated by the colorful fabrics and crafts. I picked up a few spices to bring back to Edmonton, hoping to recreate some of the delicious Mozambican dishes we had been enjoying. The market was bustling with activity, a vibrant snapshot of daily life in Vilanculos. The sounds of bartering, the smells of spices, and the colorful displays created a sensory experience that was both exciting and overwhelming.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Mambo Jumbo Bar. I'd heard great things about their cocktails and the stunning ocean views, and I wanted to experience it for myself. The bar was lively and colorful, with a relaxed atmosphere that immediately put us at ease. We ordered a round of drinks – local beers for Fatima and me, and juice for the kids – and settled in to watch the sunset. The view was breathtaking, the sky ablaze with oranges, pinks, and purples. Nelson and Sheila were mesmerized, pointing out the different colors and shapes in the clouds. It was a perfect moment, a shared experience that we would all remember.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vilanculos at Mambo Jumbo Bar, where local culture and refreshing drinks come together in a lively atmosphere.
Before dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the cool evening breeze. The kids ran ahead, chasing the waves and collecting seashells. Fatima and I walked hand in hand, reminiscing about our early days together and dreaming about the future. The beach was quiet and peaceful, the only sound the gentle lapping of the waves. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reminder of the love and connection that binds our family together. As we walked, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my loved ones, to show them the beauty and magic of Mozambique.

For dinner, we chose Samara Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood and quirky atmosphere. The restaurant was just off the north beach road and had a woven ceiling, comfortable seating, and a great bar area, making for an atmospheric spot for dinner among friends. Some locals claim that Samara serves the freshest fish in Vilanculos. The walls were covered in humorous slogans, which gave us something to ponder while we tucked into seafood. We started with stuffed crab, which was delicious, filled with cheese, breadcrumbs, and light crab meat. For the main course, we had a mix of shrimp, calamari, basmati rice, and a side salad. It’s also worth noting that Samara is ethical in the way it sources seafood.


Discover culinary excellence at Samara Restaurant in Vilanculos—where breathtaking ocean views meet exquisite local cuisine.
To cap off the evening, we made a final stop at Mambo Jumbo Bar for one last drink. The bar was even more lively than before, with music and dancing filling the air. We sat at the bar, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the company of fellow travelers. It was a fun and festive end to a wonderful day. I even managed to pick up a few Mozambican phrases from the locals, adding to my growing collection of linguistic souvenirs. As we walked back to our family's house, I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today had been a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, a true taste of what Vilanculos has to offer.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore more of the Bazaruto Archipelago with Dolphin Dhow Accommodation And Dhow Safaris and Big Blue Vilankulo. I am excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue our journey through this beautiful corner of Mozambique. I am also looking forward to trying Bahia mar for breakfast, Manito's for lunch, and Moz Beach Restaurant for dinner. And maybe, just maybe, I'll find some time to browse Shop Gallery Daniel Chivale for some unique Mozambican art.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share my heritage with my family. Vilanculos is more than just a beautiful destination; it's a place where I feel connected to my roots, a place where I can create lasting memories with my loved ones. And as we continue our journey, I am excited to discover even more of the magic and wonder that Mozambique has to offer.