Matemo Island

This remote island in the magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago is accessible via a 20 minute light aircraft flight from Pemba. A little-known unspoiled island paradise, Matemo is just 8 kms in length and 3kms wide, with gorgeous white sands, swaying palms and countless coves just waiting to be discovered. The emphasis here is on pure relaxation – and your idyllic refuge is one of 24 airconditioned chalets situated right on the beach.

Beautifully furnished, each chalet has an ensuite with an indoor and outdoor shower, a separate bath and a relaxing hammock on the verandah. Zanzibari day-beds are enticingly scattered throughout the main lounge and bar area – and not surprisingly, you can savour mouth-watering sublime local seafood in the restaurant.

With the azure tropical waters of the Indian Ocean as your playground, the snorkelling, diving and fishing are superb – but you can also enjoy sunset cruises, dhow excursions around the surrounding unexplored islands and a cultural visit to nearby historic Ibo Island (20 minutes by boat). Ibo boasts a fascinating history and some beautiful old buildings including 16th Century forts. This was where Vasco da Gama rested in 1502 – and in later years, it became a major trading centre for ivory and slaves. Today, it is a 200 year old ghost town – reminiscent of an era long forgotten.

There are three villages on Matemo where you can watch the locals making dhow boats or visit the local school – and there are also a number of scenic hikes through the island’s baobabs and palm groves. Other watersports available include waterskiing, wake boarding, sea kayaking, hobie cat sailing and spear fishing. Matemo also has a swimming pool.