Family Adventure to Vilanculos: Exploring Mozambique's Coastal Gem

Touching Down in Paradise: Vilanculos, Here We Are!

After what felt like an eternity in transit, we finally touched down in Vilanculos! The air here is thick with the scent of the ocean and something else… something familiar, something like home. Bringing Fatima and the kids back to my roots is a dream come true, and today, that dream started to unfold. I couldn't wait to show them the beauty of this coastal town and share the flavors of my childhood. The warm air of Vilanculos in August, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F to 79°F, was a welcome change from Edmonton.

Our day began, as all good days should, with food! We headed to Casa Mika Cafe for breakfast. I had heard wonderful things about the cafe, and I was eager to try it. Fatima ordered a coffee, while the kids enjoyed fresh juice. I savored every bite of my breakfast, a delightful mix of French and local flavors. It was the perfect way to start our Mozambican adventure. The cafe had a lovely garden setting, which added to the tranquil atmosphere.


Experience authentic Mozambican cuisine at Casa Mika Cafe in Vilanculos – where flavor meets tradition.

Home is not a place, it's a feeling, and today, Vilanculos felt like the warmest embrace.

After breakfast, we strolled along Praia de Vilanculos. The beach was bustling with activity, and the kids were immediately captivated by the colorful dhows bobbing in the water. Nelson and Sheila ran ahead, their laughter echoing in the sea breeze. Fatima and I walked hand in hand, reminiscing about our early days and dreaming about the adventures that lay ahead. The beach is stunning, with long stretches of sand and clear, shallow waters. It's perfect for families, and I felt a sense of pride watching my children explore the coastline of my homeland.


Experience the stunning beauty and adventure of Praia de Vilanculos, a coastal paradise in Mozambique perfect for relaxation and exploration.

For lunch, we ventured to Zita's Food, a local gem known for its authentic Mozambican cuisine. Zita welcomed us with open arms, her warmth as inviting as the aroma of spices wafting from her kitchen. We indulged in a feast of seafood, savoring the flavors of camarões à la Zita and matapa. The kids, surprisingly, were adventurous eaters, trying everything with gusto. Fatima was particularly impressed with the freshness of the ingredients and the simplicity of the dishes. Zita even offered to give Fatima a cooking class sometime during our stay, which she happily accepted.


Experience authentic Mozambican cuisine at Zita's Food in Vilankulos—where flavor meets hospitality.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore the local markets. I wanted to find a special piece of art to remind us of our trip. We found ourselves at Vuka Arte, a store brimming with local crafts and vibrant textiles. Sheila was immediately drawn to the colorful pottery, while Nelson admired the handcrafted furniture. Fatima and I spent a long time browsing the textiles, eventually settling on a beautiful piece of fabric with intricate patterns. It was the perfect souvenir, a tangible reminder of our first day in Vilanculos.


Discover Vuka Arte in Vilanculos, a unique home goods store offering a vibrant selection of local crafts and decor that embody the spirit of Mozambique.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the ocean, we made our way to Vilanculos Beach Lodge for dinner. The lodge is right on the beach, and the views were simply breathtaking. We sat at a table overlooking the sea, the gentle sound of the waves providing a soothing soundtrack to our meal. The restaurant offers international cuisine, and we opted for a selection of seafood dishes. The food was delicious, but the real highlight was the atmosphere. The lodge had a relaxed and welcoming vibe, and we felt right at home.


Experience unparalleled beauty and exquisite cuisine at Vilanculos Beach Lodge - your ultimate coastal getaway in Mozambique.

Tomorrow, we're planning an adventure with Island Safaris and Mozambique Horse Safari. Nelson is particularly excited about the prospect of seeing the islands, and Sheila can't wait to ride a horse along the beach. Fatima and I are looking forward to experiencing the natural beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago and creating unforgettable memories with our family.

Our first day in Vilanculos was nothing short of magical. It was a day filled with laughter, delicious food, and heartwarming moments. As I sit here now, writing this from the veranda of our family's home, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Bringing my family back to Mozambique has been a dream of mine for so long, and today, that dream became a reality. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Boa noite, Vilanculos!

P.S. I almost forgot! I had packed a universal travel adapter, but I left it in Edmonton! Fatima reminded me that she packed a spare, so we were able to charge our phones and cameras. Lesson learned: always double-check your packing list, even when you think you have everything covered!