Inhambane is a tropical area
with deserted white beaches and clear tropical waters, virtually undiscovered
by tourists. The town of Inhambane is one of the oldest settlements
in southern Africa. In 1534, Portuguese traders established a trading
post here and their legacy can be seen in the architecture and layout
of the city. There are many old buildings in varying states of repair,
including a 200-year-old cathedral. The market, where slaves, ivory, gold and spices were once traded, is well worth a visit.
Those heading directly for the beaches should take the main street
out of town. It is 20km to the fork for Ponta da Barra and
Praia do Tofo, some of the best beaches in Mozambique. Praia do Tofo
is one of the more developed resorts in the region. The beach here
is a broad expanse of clean sand fringed by palms and coconut trees. It has some of the best surf on the Mozambique coast, known by surfers
for its fast right break. Also on this stretch of coast is the rocky
torture den where the Portuguese left prisoners to be beaten into
submission by the rising tide. Ponto do Barra is a beautiful headland
with sea on one side and mangrove forests on the other. It’s
a lovely stretch of coastline frequented by fishermen and dhows.
Both beaches offer scuba diving, fishing and boat charters.
|
 |
