Mozambique - Zambia, Mozambique and Malawi - page 332

Inhaca Island
Just 7000 years ago - almost like yesterday in geological terms - Inhaca (Ilha de Inhaca)
was part of the mainland. Today, this wayward chunk of Mozambican coastline lies about
40km offshore from Maputo, and is an enjoyable weekend getaway. It's also an important
marine research centre, known in particular for its offshore coral reefs. The reefs are
among the most southerly in the world, and since 1976, parts of the island and surround-
ing waters have been designated a reserve (per person per visit US$10) to protect them
and local marine life. About 3km northwest of Inhaca is tiny, uninhabited Portuguese Is-
land (Ilha dos Portuguêses), a beautiful white patch of sand surrounded by clear waters. It
was formerly a leper colony and is now part of the Inhaca marine reserve system.
Just south of Inhaca, across a narrow channel at the tip of Machangula Peninsula, is
Cape Santa Maria , with quiet beaches and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling. The
area, which is also known for its pelicans and flamingos, is usually visited by boat from
Inhaca or direct from Maputo, although there's also an overland route through the Maputo
Special Reserve and a self-catering camp.
The majority of Inhaca's residents belong to a subgroup of the Tembe-Tsonga and
speak a dialect of Ronga distinct from (but mutually intelligible with) that found on the
mainland.
Sights & Activities
The best beaches are on the island's northeastern edge past the lighthouse, and on Por-
tuguese Island. The closest good beach to the ferry pier is about 2km south, along the bay.
On Inhaca's southwestern edge is a marine biology research station and a small museum
Offline map Google map ( 21-760009; admission Mtc75; 8.30-11.30am & 2-3.30pm
Mon-Fri, from 9.30am Sat, Sun & holidays) with specimens of local fauna. Transport can
be arranged through Pestana Inhaca Lodge ( Click here ) or Restaurante Lucas ( Click
here ) . Otherwise, it's a 50-minute walk to the marine research station, and double that to
the lighthouse.
Birdwatching opportunities abound, with about 300 bird species recorded on Inhaca.
This is a remarkable figure considering that the island measures only about 72 sq km in
area. Among others, watch for great-winged and white-chinned petrels, mangrove king-
fishers, crab plovers and greater frigate birds.