Family Adventure to Vilanculos: Exploring Mozambique's Coastal Gem

Seaside Bliss and Mozambican Flavors

Today was a day of embracing the simple joys of Vilanculos. From exploring unique spots to savoring local cuisine, every moment felt like a genuine connection to this beautiful land. It was a day of unwinding, appreciating the scenery, and enjoying the company of my family, making memories that we’ll cherish long after we leave.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Lemon Beach Lodge. The lodge is so cozy, with a real family-run feel. We sat outside, enjoying the gentle sea breeze as we tucked into a continental breakfast with fresh fruit. Sheila was particularly fond of the fruit cocktail, while Nelson devoured the English breakfast. It’s these simple moments, sharing a meal with my family, that make these trips so special. Fatima and I enjoyed some quiet moments, sipping our coffee and watching the kids play, feeling grateful for this time together. I must say, starting the day with a view of the ocean always sets the right tone. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home.


Discover culinary delights at Lemon Beach Lodge, where stunning ocean views meet authentic Mozambican flavors in Vilankulos.

After breakfast, we decided to explore Santorini Mozambique. The place is just breathtaking! As we drove up, the architecture immediately reminded me of the Greek Islands. The white buildings against the backdrop of the African landscape created a stunning contrast. The kids were amazed by the villas, each beautifully decorated and offering incredible views of the ocean. We spent a good hour just wandering around, taking photos and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Santorini Mozambique truly feels like a hidden gem, a tranquil escape from the everyday.


Discover the enchanting Santorini Mozambique, where Mediterranean charm meets the breathtaking beauty of Vilanculos' coastline.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found in the places that remind us of home, yet feel worlds away.

Next on our list was a visit to Guia Moçambique Travel. As someone who was born in Mozambique, I always feel a sense of pride sharing my heritage with my family. I wanted to get a deeper understanding of local tourism efforts and learn more about guided tours in the area. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about showcasing the best of Mozambique. They provided us with insights into personalized itineraries and adventure activities, emphasizing sustainable tourism. Nelson was particularly interested in the snorkeling and diving options, while Sheila was excited about the cultural experiences. It was inspiring to see their commitment to benefiting both visitors and local communities.


Discover the beauty of Vilankulos with Guia Moçambique Travel - your partner in exploring Mozambique's stunning coastlines and vibrant culture.

For lunch, we headed to Long Life Restaurant. I had heard great things about their seafood, and I was eager to try it out. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled prawns, fish curry, and matapa. The prawns were succulent and flavorful, the fish curry was rich and aromatic, and the matapa was a delightful taste of home. Fatima, who is always a bit hesitant to try new things, absolutely loved the matapa. The kids enjoyed their meal too, although Nelson insisted on trying some peri-peri sauce, which turned out to be a bit too spicy for him. Overall, the food was fantastic, and it was a great way to experience authentic Mozambican cuisine.


Discover the authentic tastes of Mozambique at Long Life Chicken Shop in Vilankulos - a haven for food lovers!

In the late afternoon, we decided to unwind at Vilankulo Beach Bar. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing and people enjoying the sunset. I ordered a local beer, while Fatima had a refreshing juice. The kids played on the beach, building sandcastles and chasing the waves. As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the ocean. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at Vilankulo Beach Bar, where relaxation meets the charm of coastal Mozambique.

Dinner tonight was at Restaurante Bar Sol Nascente. The restaurant is known for its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. We arrived early to secure a table with a view of the coastline. The menu offered a mix of local and international dishes, and we decided to try some of their seafood specialties. I opted for the grilled lobster, while Fatima chose the seafood platter. The kids went for simpler options, like grilled chicken and fries. The lobster was cooked to perfection, and the seafood platter was a feast of flavors. The warm and friendly staff made sure we had everything we needed, adding to the overall dining experience.


Savor authentic Mozambican cuisine at Restaurante Bar Sol Nascente while enjoying breathtaking ocean views in Vilankulos.

As the day comes to a close, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we’ve had today. From the serene beauty of Santorini Mozambique to the vibrant flavors of local cuisine, Vilanculos has truly captured our hearts. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in culture, and create lasting memories with your loved ones. As we prepare for our final day tomorrow, I am looking forward to visiting Villas do Indico Eco-Resort & Spa and asDunas Lodge. I am also looking forward to trying out La Masion Pastelaria e Restaurante for breakfast, BOA'S for lunch, and Complexo Alemanha for dinner. And maybe we’ll have time to pick up a souvenir at NATUREZA before we head to the airport on Monday. I will be sad to leave, but I know that we will carry the spirit of Vilanculos with us wherever we go.

Tomorrow is our last day here, and although I am sad our adventure is coming to an end, I am looking forward to what it has in store!

Until then, kwahani lokunene (good night) from Vilanculos.