Travelling Ibo Island
Before You Travel
Ibo Island is situated on the Indian Ocean paradise of Ibo Island, just north of the mainland city of Pemba in pristine northern Mozambique. Ibo is just one of a string of 27 tropical islands that make up the breathtakingly beautiful Quirimbas Archipelago in northern Mozambique.
For the last 500 years Ibo Island was a prosperous trading post along the stunning coast of East Africa. Three forts, a beautiful old catholic church and numerous ancient trading buildings stand guard over the sea. Pirates, ivory, intrigue and the never to be forgotten slave trade are a part of this tiny palm-fringed coral island’s history. Boundless secrets, history and culture are still contained amongst the ruins, which date back to the 1500s.
Ibo Island also boasts much more than historical importance. Easily one of the most un-spoilt destinations on the planet, Ibo also falls within the newly created Quirimbas National Park. Beyond the warm turquoise waters inhabited by turtles and tropical fish, the ocean around Ibo is also home to dolphins, whales and the shy and mysterious dugong. Birding in the region is fast growing and excellent opportunities and great diversity occur.
The story of the creation of the Quirimbas National Park is quite unique. The Park was declared in June 2002 with the celebrations and official functions taking place on Ibo Island. What is extraordinary is that the Park was established at the request of local communities, stake holders and NGO's all interested in working together to protect the region. Conservation can only really be effective if it has the support of the communities that inhabit the areas. In the case of the Quirimbas National Park it was unanimous.
The Quirimbas National Park goal is to conserve the diversity, abundance, and ecological integrity of all physical and biological resources in the park area, so that they may be enjoyed and used productively by present and future generations'.
Ibo Island Tours
