Quirimbas Archipelago FAQs

What is the weather like in the Quirimbas and when is the best time to go?

Mozambique has a tropical climate and almost every day enjoys sunshine. The best time to visit the Quirimbas Archipelago is from June to August when there is hardly any rain at all, and the average daytime temperature is between 22°-30° Celsius/ 71°-86° Fahrenheit.

The rainy season is from November to April with the heaviest rains in January and February. This period is very hot and humid. The rain usually occurs in the form of brief downpours, after which the sun comes out again.

Read more about when to go to the Quirimbas.

What is the water temperature and when is the best time for scuba diving in Quirimbas?

Scuba diving in the Quirimbas occurs all year round, but is best from April to September. The water temperature in the Quirimbas ranges from 24 -28° C/ 75°-82° F and visibility is from 15 - 30 metres.

When is cyclone season?

Mozambique is sometimes affected by monsoon cyclones in January and February. However, the cyclones most often affect the more southern regions between Vilanculos and Maputo as opposed to the northern regions where the Quirimbas is located.

What activities can I do in the Quirimbas?

There is a wealth of terrific water activities to be enjoyed in the Quirimbas - among them are sailing, scuba diving, fishing, snorkeling, swimming, canoeing and windsurfing.

How does one get to the Quirimbas?

The Quirimbas islands are accessed by light aircraft charter flights/ helicopter flights from Pemba Airport. Most of these flights take about 15 - 30 minutes.

Read more about getting around the Quirimbas.

What are the normal luggage restrictions on the charter flights to the islands in the Quirimbas?

Depending on which charter flights you take, the luggage restriction normally ranges between 15 and 20kg. It is imperative that all luggage is in the form of soft bags. Hard shell bags are not permitted on the planes under any circumstances.

Is it safe to drink the water?

Tap water is usually safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available should you prefer this. Avoid eating food which has not been cooked or peeled.

Will there be electricity for me to charge my camera?

Yes. Mozambique plugs have a voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50 Hertz.

How much can I expect to pay for accommodation in the Quirimbas?

This depends entirely on where you want to stay and on the level of Quirimbas accommodation you are looking for. On the mainland you can expect to pay between $130 and $450 per person per night. On the islands at the luxury lodges you can expect to pay between about $345 and $700 per person per night sharing.

What do prices normally include? Are there any fully inclusive options?

With the exception of one of our hotels on the Pemba mainland, prices in the Quirimbas usually include all meals, snacks, teas, coffees and all non-motorized water sports and equipment. Certain lodges also include local alcoholic beverages on top of all meals and non-motorized water activities.

Why are snorkeling and scuba diving often considered motorized water activities?

This is because you need to take a motor boat out to the coral reefs and other areas where you will go diving and snorkeling.

How can I be certain that my valuables will be safe where we are staying?

Most hotels and lodges will have safes for your valuables either in your room or at reception.

What is the local currency and how should we manage carrying our money?

If you are traveling to the Quirimbas, it is best to carry US Dollars cash with you as your bill and any other services will be charged in US Dollars.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but to be on the safe side, it is best to double check the credit card facilities with your consultant before you travel.

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Quirimbas Archipelago