Mozambique

With a long Indian Ocean shoreline that stretches out over Africa’s southern coast, Mozambique is full of rich marine life, great diving, and beautiful beaches. Onshore, it boasts unique traditional culture, elegant colonial architecture, and vibrant city nightlife, making it a fantastic destination for any traveller. Port capital Maputo is resplendent with well-preserved, Mediterranean-style Portuguese colonial architecture, such as the lovely neoclassical train station. There’s an excellent collection of contemporary Mozambique art at the National Art Museum, and smaller Chissano Gallery is dedicated to the life and work of sculptor Alberto Chissano. Head to Mozambique Island for historical sights lapped by crystal-clear, tropical turquoise waters, where dhows sail silently, or to Quirimbas Archipelago, where Portuguese, Swahili, Indian and African cultures merge together in the historical pirate town of Ibo, and vibrant coral reefs lie under the waves. A quarter of Lake Malawi lies on Mozambique’s territory, and its wilder shores are to be found here. The green hills of the Chimanimani Mountain range include Mount Binga, the country’s highest peak at 2,436 metres tall. Head to Bazaruto Archipelago for vibrant wildlife, including pink flamingoes, fish eagles, and Nile crocodiles.