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Ibo Island Dhow Safari

Our rating

8/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Multi-day island-hopping safari
- Flexible itinerary choices
- Sail in traditional 12-metre dhow boats
- Sleep in tents on beautiful beaches

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Overview

Ibo Island Lodge holds the distinction of being the only operator in Mozambique to run guided island-hopping excursions throughout the breathtakingly beautiful Quirimbas Archipelago. These excursions enable participants to explore the islands in an exciting, up-close way. There are three options to choose from: island-hopping by kayak, stand-up paddle board or by 12-metre dhow. A dhow is a traditional Arab sailing ship with one or two masts known for its large white sails; these ships were commonly used throughout the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea for two millennia and the multi-day safaris provide modern-day visitors with the chance to experience what it might have been like to sail in one of these magnificent vessels.

Dhows have a long, rich history and have played a key role in trading relationships between many countries. Nowadays, sailing by motor-less dhow is all about travelling at a slower, more relaxed pace and not necessarily hurrying from one destination to the next. In terms of amenities, the dhow’s offerings are perhaps rather more basic than luxurious, although it’s a unique and great-fun way to explore the islands.

The dhow safaris are all led by a professional guide and local crew and explore some of the thirty-two islands that make up the Quirimbas Archipelago. Nights are spent not on the dhow itself, but instead in specially set up mobile tented camps either on the beach, or slightly inland. There are plenty of activities to enjoy along the way including snorkelling, exploring some of the island settlements, bird watching and kayaking.

The lodge offers a number of fixed itineraries, including a five-night safari (two nights on the dhow, three nights at the lodge) and a seven-night safari (four nights on the dhow and three nights at the lodge). There’s also a honeymoon package (two nights on the dhow and three nights at the lodge), with the option to add on four nights at the nearby Azura Quilalea private island resort. Note that the lodge is also happy to arrange private, tailor-made safaris lasting from five to fourteen nights, depending on personal preferences and requirements.

What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.

    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

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