Family Adventure to Vilanculos: Exploring Mozambique's Coastal Gem

A Day of Exploration

Today was a day of embracing the local culture and natural beauty of Vilanculos. From gliding through serene waters to savoring authentic Mozambican flavors, every moment was a new discovery. It's days like these that remind me why I wanted to bring my family back to experience the land of my birth.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kilimanjaro Cafe Vilanculos. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as we settled into the beautiful outdoor garden. I ordered a strong cappuccino, while Fatima and the kids opted for smoothies. Nelson, of course, went straight for the pizza, while Sheila enjoyed a stack of pancakes. It's a great little spot, clearly popular with both locals and tourists, and set us up perfectly for the day ahead.


Experience culinary bliss at Kilimanjaro Cafe Vilanculos with exquisite local flavors and stunning coastal views.

After breakfast, we headed to Vilanculos Canoe Safaris, Lda. I was really looking forward to this, as I'd heard great things about their canoe trips into the Govuro Wetlands. We met our guide, who was incredibly knowledgeable about the local ecosystem. He explained that the Govuro Spring River feeds the wetlands, creating a unique freshwater delta teeming with birdlife.


Explore the breathtaking waters and diverse wildlife of Vilanculos Canoe Safaris, a premier tourist attraction in Mozambique's stunning coastal paradise.

As we paddled along, the kids were mesmerized by the crystal-clear waters and the vibrant birdlife. We spotted black crakes, pygmy geese, and several kingfishers. Sheila, ever the observant one, even pointed out a purple gallinule hiding amongst the water lilies. The guide told us about the local efforts to protect this delicate ecosystem, which I appreciated. It’s wonderful to see sustainable eco-tourism initiatives that benefit both the environment and the local community.

The beauty of Vilanculos lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the warmth and resilience of its people.

After our canoe adventure, it was time for a bit of relaxation at VilanCool | non-profit Beach Resort & Kite School. This place is more than just a resort; it’s a project that gives back to the community. The kids were thrilled to discover that VilanCool is a kite school, and the consistent winds make it perfect for kite surfing. Nelson was especially keen to give it a try, but Fatima and I decided to watch from the beach this time. Maybe tomorrow, I thought, feeling a little twinge in my back. I am not as young as I used to be.


Discover VilanCool, a non-profit beach resort and kite school in Vilanculos, offering thrilling water sports and serene beachfront accommodations.

We spent a pleasant couple of hours lounging on the beach, watching the kite surfers and soaking up the sun. Fatima enjoyed reading her book, while the kids built sandcastles and splashed in the waves. I took the opportunity to chat with some of the locals, learning more about the resort's mission to provide employment, education, and healthcare to the team and their families. It’s inspiring to see such a positive impact on the community.

For lunch, we decided to try La Masion. This restaurant came highly recommended for its seafood, and it did not disappoint. We ordered a platter of grilled prawns, calamari, and fish, all incredibly fresh and flavorful. The kids devoured the food, and even Sheila, who can be a bit picky, declared it the best seafood she'd ever had. I savored every bite, reminiscing about the flavors of my childhood. This is the taste of Mozambique I wanted my children to experience.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Mozambique at La Masion in Vilankulos - a culinary haven blending local ingredients with international flair.

In the afternoon, we took a stroll through the local shops. I wanted to find some souvenirs to take back to Edmonton, and also to support local artisans. Our first stop was BoaGente. I had heard about their coconut oil factory, and I was intrigued. We ended up buying several bottles of their cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, which is made from locally sourced coconuts. Fatima was particularly excited about this purchase, as she's always looking for natural skincare products. We also picked up some handmade crafts, including a beautiful beaded necklace for Sheila and a wooden carving of an elephant for Nelson.


Explore BoaGente in Vilanculos for unique gifts that celebrate the vibrant culture and craftsmanship of Mozambique.

Before dinner, we took a walk along the beach as the sun began to set. The sky was ablaze with color, and the view of the Bazaruto Archipelago was simply breathtaking. It was the perfect moment to reflect on the day and appreciate the beauty of this place. I shared stories with the kids about growing up in Mozambique, about the games I used to play on the beach, and the lessons I learned from my elders. I could see the spark of connection in their eyes, a growing understanding of their heritage.

For dinner, we opted for Karibu pizzeria. After a day of Mozambican cuisine, the kids were craving something familiar, and I must admit, I was too. The pizzeria had a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air. We ordered a couple of pizzas to share, and they were delicious. The crust was perfectly crispy, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. Nelson declared it the best pizza he'd had in Mozambique, which, considering our earlier lunch, was quite a compliment.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Karibu Pizzeria in Vilankulos - where every bite takes you on a culinary journey.

As we walked back to our family's house after dinner, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. I was so glad to be able to share this experience with my family. It’s important for them to connect with their roots, to understand where they come from. And what better way to do that than through shared experiences, delicious food, and the warmth of family?

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Vilanculos Beach Lodge and Restaurant and Sailaway Dhow Safaris []. I am particularly excited about the dhow safari, as I have heard it's a fantastic way to explore the Bazaruto Archipelago. We'll start the day with breakfast at Leopoldina's, followed by lunch at Aconchego, and dinner at Telvina Beach Lodge Restaurante e Acomodação []. And perhaps, after dinner, I'll sneak out for a drink at Insomnia []. It is important to experience everything Vilanculos has to offer, right?

“Home is not a place, it’s a feeling.” It’s a feeling I hope my children will carry with them, wherever they go.

Until tomorrow,
Joao