Nacala Bay

Nacala has one of the deepest natural harbours on the African east coast and is Mozambique's main northern port, but for visitors the interest is on the far side of the bay at Fernao Veloso, where the water is clear and the reefs and drop-offs are considered by many divers the best in the country. Whale sharks and manta rays pass through, humpbacks migrate offshore between July and October, and there are beaches along the bay's northern shore.

What you actually see

• The Fernao Veloso reefs - drop-offs and coral on the northern side of the bay.
• The deep harbour - one of the deepest natural ports on the East African coast.
• The humpback migration - whales passing offshore between July and October.
• The bay beaches - sand along the northern shore away from the port.

When to go

May to October is the dry season and the best for diving visibility. Humpbacks pass between July and October. Cyclone season from December to March disrupts boats.

Honest expectations

The port dominates the town and the industrial side is not attractive. Dive operators are few and standards should be checked. Accommodation is limited and expensive for what it is.

Nearby

Chocas beach is south along the coast, and Ilha de Mocambique is beyond it.