Family Adventure to Vilanculos: Exploring Mozambique's Coastal Gem

A Day of Discovery in Vilanculos

Today was a day filled with the vibrant energy of Vilanculos. From the gentle sway of a dhow to the colorful artistry of local crafts, every moment was a new experience for Fatima, the kids, and me. It was a day to remember, filled with laughter, delicious food, and the warmth of Mozambican hospitality.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Bahia Mar. The gentle sea breeze and the stunning view of the Indian Ocean made the experience truly special. Nelson, of course, was eager to get his hands on some fresh fruit, while Sheila enjoyed her cereal. Fatima and I savored the Mozambican coffee, strong and aromatic, a perfect start to our Sunday. Bahia Mar certainly knows how to set the tone for a relaxing day.


Experience delectable Western cuisine at Bahia Mar in Vilankulos, where stunning views meet exceptional flavors and warm hospitality.

After breakfast, we set off for Dolphin Dhow Accommodation And Dhow Safaris. The kids were beyond excited for a dhow safari. I had heard great things about their tours, and I wanted to give my family a taste of the Bazaruto Archipelago. The staff at Dolphin Dhow were incredibly welcoming. They explained the safety procedures and gave us a brief overview of what we could expect on our adventure.


Discover the beauty of Vilankulos with Dolphin Dhow Accommodation and Dhow Safaris, offering amazing ocean adventures and stunning natural scenery.

As we boarded the dhow, the traditional sailing vessel, I felt a sense of pride in sharing this part of my heritage with my family. The sail was smooth, the ocean sparkling under the August sun. Nelson and Sheila were captivated by the dolphins playing in the waves, their laughter echoing across the water. We spent hours exploring the coastline, marveling at the pristine beaches and the diverse marine life.

Sometimes, the greatest journeys are those that bring us closer to our roots and to each other.

Our next stop was Big Blue Vilankulo. While the kids were initially disappointed that we weren't diving, I knew they'd enjoy the other activities Big Blue had to offer. We opted for a snorkeling trip, and the kids were soon swimming alongside colorful fish and sea turtles. Fatima, who isn't the strongest swimmer, felt safe with the attentive guides. I even tried my hand at some fishing, though I didn't have much luck. Still, it was a fun experience, and the kids enjoyed watching me try.


Experience thrilling fishing charters and breathtaking whale watching at Big Blue Vilankulo, the ultimate destination for marine adventure in Mozambique.

After our aquatic adventures, it was time for lunch. We headed to Manito's, a restaurant I had heard served authentic Mozambican cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the flavors of Mozambique. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled seafood, matapa, and peri-peri chicken. The food was delicious, the spices vibrant and the portions generous. Nelson, surprisingly, loved the peri-peri chicken, while Sheila couldn't get enough of the fresh seafood. Fatima and I enjoyed the matapa, a traditional dish made with cassava leaves, a taste of home that brought back many memories.


Experience authentic Mozambican cuisine at Manito's in Vilanculos - where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore the local art scene. I had read about Shop Gallery Daniel Chivale, a gallery showcasing the work of local artists. I wanted to find a unique piece to remind us of our trip, something that captured the essence of Vilanculos. The gallery was a treasure trove of creativity, filled with colorful paintings, intricate sculptures, and handcrafted jewelry. We met Daniel Chivale himself, a talented artist who shared his passion for Mozambican art. We ended up purchasing a beautiful painting of a dhow sailing into the sunset, a perfect memento of our day.


Explore the vibrant cultural essence of Mozambique through unique handmade crafts and local art at Shop Gallery Daniel Chivale in Vilankulos.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Moz Beach Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant is right on the beach, offering stunning views of the ocean. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with live music playing in the background. We ordered some cocktails and watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. For dinner, we opted for the seafood platter, a feast of grilled prawns, lobster, and fish. The food was fresh and flavorful, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience delightful coastal dining at Moz Beach Restaurant in Vilankulos, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. I was grateful for the opportunity to share my homeland with my family, to introduce them to the beauty and culture of Mozambique. I was also grateful for the simple joys of the day – the laughter of my children, the warmth of the sun, the taste of delicious food, and the beauty of local art. These are the moments that make life truly special.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Odyssea Dive and hopefully get a chance to see more of the underwater wonders around here. We're also hoping to catch the Sunset Dhow Safari, which sounds like a fantastic way to end the day. And of course, we'll be trying out some new restaurants – Casa Jules for breakfast, WASABI SUSHI, CAFE E LUNCHES for lunch, and Jenny's Bar, Restaurant & Guest Rooms for dinner. I'm also planning to check out Vibes Lounge & Bar. It's going to be another exciting day in Vilanculos!

As I sit here writing this, with the sound of the ocean lulling me to sleep, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. This trip is more than just a vacation; it's a journey of rediscovery, a chance to reconnect with my roots and create lasting memories with my family. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.