Inhambane, Mozambique

Do me ...

Inhambane, the name meaning 'the place of the friendly people', is one of the oldest ports on the Eastern Coast of Africa, where, back in the early 16th century, Portugese explorers established a trading post for slavetraders.

Ancient sailors would advantage of the calm estuary to stop over, buy goods and replenish for their voyages ahead. Even the Famous Vasco De Gama made Inhambane's trading post a regular place to stop over. Although ships don't often visit Inhambane's port ... the harbour still has the largest fleet of working dhow's to this day!

with a population of about 50 000 people, The town boasts its own Airport and within the town, there is some lovely archutecture buildings from the colonial days to admire - creating a historical charm and cultural experience.

Enjoy light meals at some of the quaint side-walk cafe's along the picturesque streets and watch the town go about their day. You can find most basic facilities and supplies such as Banks, shops, petrol stations, markets, public phones, internet access... and one must definitly pop-into the local bakery and buy the very popular local fresh Pau (large portugese rolls).

If you are in the mood to do a little bit of shopping, then head off to the Central Market ... here you can get just about anything the locals make! Piles of colourful fresh produce (vegetables & fruit) are stacked on wooded stands, waiting to be sold. Great craftmenship can be seen as there are lots of wooden carvings, woven straw baskets, mats, hats, shoes (slops/sandles - a must as the sand on the beaches are very hot), fish, spices and lots more!

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