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Mozambique: The Best of Barra Beach in Tofo

Barra beach in Mozambique is situated in Tofo, southeastern part of the country. It is famous for its excellent diving and it’s a great place to escape to, especially while visiting Maputo. There are a lot of fun and interesting things to do in Mozambique that you can’t do anywhere else, especially in a destination as affordable and secluded as Tofo. Mozambique is all about the megafauna, with tons of whale sharks and manta rays visiting Tofo all year round. This location is fast becoming a top holiday destination for divers and travellers alike.

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

6 Things to do in Tofo

1. Go scuba diving and snorkelling

Diving in the crystal- clear waters of the Indian Ocean is definitely a top activity to take part in on your vacation in Tofo. The water is perfect! Its not too warm and not too cold. It’s just right. You can book your unforgettable ocean safari experience with Liquid Dive Adventures at a cost of R700. This tour includes masks, snorkels and fins, as well as experienced guides. Please note that Humpback Whales visit the coast of Tofo during the months of June to October.

2. Ride a quad bike

Led by experienced guides, enjoy quad biking around the dunes and coconut tree forests behind the main beach. This is an amazing tour because you will also learn about the local people, their habits and culture.

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

3. Watch the mesmerising sunrise

It’s often said that African sunrises and sunsets are some of the best in the world. In the morning, wander out to the beach for the sunrise and enjoy your favourite beverage as you watch the darkness slowly transitioning into daylight. This is one of the most magical ways to start another day on the paradise island.

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

4. Play soccer with locals

If you are a soccer fan, you’ll be happy to know that every afternoon, the locals play soccer at the beach and you’re welcome to join the fun.

5. Eat Seafood

Casa na Praia: This restaurant is absolutely lovely, with stunning beach views, great atmosphere and of course, delicious seafood. An ideal place to enjoy a glass of wine while watching the waves break.

Neptune’s Beach Bar: Neptune’s has everything and more…the view, the location, great food and WiFi! You’ll be surprised to see many South Africans at Neptune’s, this is because the chef is South African and makes delicious food.

Branko’s: Situated on the main strip among the hustle and bustle of the town centre, Branko’s offers great pizza and amazing seafood which you can order and cook on your own “hot rock”! The food there is simple, delicious and affordable. Be sure to sit at the bar and watch the bartender make mouth-watering mojitos with fresh passion fruit.

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

6. Relax on the beach

Tofo is a paradise fantasy, to say the least. Barra beach is wide, white and feels like its untouched. While taking a break from swimming in the warm Indian Ocean, take some time to relax on the beach.

Accommodation

Barra beach club – is nestled amongst groves of coconut trees in one of the most picturesque areas in Mozambique, with spectacular views of pristine beaches and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. This exceptional beach club caters for any kind of traveller but it is mainly for families with children and divers who have come to experience Mozambique’s unique Manta Coast diving.

You can spend your afternoons here in the pool, sunbathing and relaxing with a cocktail in hand, while taking advantage of the free WiFi.

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

Fatimas Backpackers – This is a popular hostel which is situated right on the beach, although, this type of accommodation is not for everyone. If you’re an adventure lover and enjoy backpacking and meeting like-minded travellers, then Fatimas is the right place for you. Their tent facilities make it possible for you to camp right on the beach. Instead of camping, you can rent a private room, a bed in a dormitory or book out a bungalow.

When to visit Tofo

The busiest month for tourism in Tofo, Mozambique is September, followed by May and October.
The rainy season puts off many travellers from visiting Mozambique, although, you may experience a few hours of rain a day, this should not stop you from exploring Tofo. January is the wettest month of the year, therefore if you’re planning to visit Mozambique in the rainy season, be sure to keep an eye on the weather reports before you visit. rainy season isn’t actually a terrible time to visit: the prices are cheaper, there are fewer tourists, and the rain isn’t frequent enough to spoil your vacation.

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

How to get to Tofo

Drive from Johannesburg:

Life is a journey and not a destination, and so should be the way to Tofo. You can do a road trip from Johannesburg, it’s a long drive but the scenery along the way and the destination will be worth it.

From Johannesburg, follow the N4 highway to Maputo, which is approximately 534 kilometres. You will enter Mozambique at the border post in Komatipoort.

Drive from Maputo:

Tofo is situated 485km north of Maputo. From Maputo follow the N1 in the direction of Xai-Xai, the capital of the Gaza province. The road from Maputo to Xai Xai has been upgraded and resurfaced but it is recommended that you used a 4×4 for your trip. Please note that speed limits are enforced on this route, so make sure you drive with caution. After Xai-Xai, travel for a further 240 kilometres to Inhambane province where Tofo is located.

Fly from OR Tambo International Airport:

Flying is a popular choice of travel to Inhambane, with direct flights from O.R.Tambo Airport (Johannesburg) with Travelstart.

Flight information and schedules.

Photo Credit: @Dineo_Zonke via Instagram

Mozambique Visa Requirements for South Africans

South African passport holders are not required to obtain a tourist visa prior to travelling for a maximum of 30 days in Mozambique. Although, your passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months on entry into Mozambique.
A Mozambique holiday is the perfect excuse to kick off your shoes, its more affordable than Mauritius and Tofo is an amazingly beautiful destination.

What are you waiting for? Book your next flight to Mozambique today and explore Tofo!

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