If you are really lucky, you can witness new born loggerhead and leather-back turtles emerge and scramble down to the water’s edge to begin life in the ocean. Xai Xai (pronounced as 'shy-shy') is situated in the southern part of Mozambique over 200km north of Maputo on the northern banks of the Limpopo river. Enjoy snorkeling in ideal, calm conditions on the inner side of a massive coral reef stretching for 5km along the beach.
As you travel north on EN1 over the Limpopo river bridge you'll enter the outskirts of Xai Xai - a busy commercial centre where an open furniture market of excellently crafted couches and furniture are on display for sale. Expect a lot of locals on the roadside selling big bags of cashew nuts at relatively cheap prices.
Even though the town of Xai Xai has general facilities, you will find that most of the facilities and supplies are located closer to Praia do Xai-Xai (the beach) approximately 10km away. This includes petrol, diesel (be sure to fill up with fuel as soon as you get there as tank often run dry with the influx of tourists), food markets, seafood, pau Portuguese rolls, fruit, vegetables, ATM machines, banks, pharmacies, a post office, art & craft curios, pubs and a few very good seafood restaurants to dine at.
A massive coral reef stretches parallel and for more than 5km south from Xai Xai beach - ideal for snorkeling and diving activities. The reef naturally protects the beaches from strong ocean currents and waves allowing for calm and safe bathing conditions (especially for children). Beautiful coral pools can be explored during low tide and plenty of shells can be found.
A main attraction is the Wenela tidal pool - a natural underwater blowhole located approximately 2km south of Xai Xai. The spectacular blowhole effect occurs when immense tidal pressure from the ocean forces water through an underwater channel beneath the reef. This is definitely a tidal pool to see and not swim in!
Bird enthusiasts can enjoy sightings around a few fresh water lakes located 40km (30 minute drive) north of Xai-Xai that's home to a large variety of bird species. Other lake activities to do include canoeing, paddle skiing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Although a 4x4 is not required to reach Xai Xai, certain lodges located on the beach can only be reached via a sandy beach road (which requires a 4x4). Confirm this with the lodge and / or arrange a pickup from Xai Xai beach if you're not travelling in a 4x4.
