As the small plane left the South African runway, I wondered what awaited us in Mozambque. I went on somewhat of a whim, after deciding to leave my job, in search of escapism and adventure. As I emerged out of the plane, the heat hit me and one of my favourite summers began!
Pemba Beach.
I stayed in Pemba, a port city in the province of Cabo Delgado on the peninsula in Pemba Bay. From the airport we journeyed along the coastline, lined with white sand and children playing games in the ocean. Riding in the open top truck, clutching on to my suitcase, I knew that this trip would be unforgettable.
Beach friends.
Day trip and picnic on the beach.
My travelling buddies and two of my best friends, Elais (left) & Natasha (middle).
We deceided to by pass the lures of the Pemba Beach Hotel, with its spa and infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and venture beyond the norm. We stayed in a little house next to the beach, it was basic but lovely. We had small gas hob and a huge kitchen table, which we sat round every morning for breakfast, enjoying fresh water melon and papaya, from the open air market.
Twice a week we would take a tuc tuc and head into town to get supplies, before stopping at the bakery for freshly made Portuguese tarts. We spent many an evening at Russell's Place, a South African style lodge, enjoying a freshco (cold drink), whilst watching whatever sport was being played. The pace in Mozambique was so relaxed, which came as a welcome break from my normal fast paced life.
On route!
We took trucks into the outback to camp, see more of the country and meet people from some of the many different tribes. I will never forget one evening, when we travelled after a heavy storm. Our vehicle got stuck as we attempted to cross a shallow river. We tried everything to push it free and after an hour and a half, we gave up. An entire village near by came to our rescue, armed with spades and man power and got us back on our way. This is typical of the Mozambican people, always willing to help, laugh and share what they have. We eventually arrived at our campsite, covered in dust, to a feast of freshly prepared goat curry made by our guides, which we ate under a sea of stars.
One of our camp sites.
Children in the Village.
My favourite thing about Mozambique was the friends that we made and the children in the village next to where we stayed. They would often come to our window and call for us to come and explore, they were the best tour guides we had. Mozambique was incredible from start to finish. Its one of those places that made me wake up smiling, I hope you have found one of those places too.
Little Cutie!
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