Tofo and the Inhambane Coast

Tofo, on the palm-fringed southern coast near the historic town of Inhambane, is Mozambique's most beloved and laid-back beach destination, a relaxed spot of golden sand, warm Indian Ocean water and an easygoing, sociable vibe. Its real fame, though, lies beneath the waves: the offshore reefs are one of the best places on earth to encounter giant marine life year-round, above all the majestic whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea, and graceful manta rays, along with turtles, dolphins and, in season, humpback whales, making it a world-class diving and ocean destination.

What you actually see

• The whale sharks - the year-round encounters with the giant fish.
• The manta rays - the graceful mantas on the reefs.
• The beach and dhows - the golden sand and traditional boats.
• Inhambane town - the atmospheric old Portuguese trading town.

When to go

The reefs offer whale sharks and mantas year-round, but the calmest seas and best diving visibility tend to run from around April to September; humpback whales pass on migration roughly June to October. The wetter, hotter months bring more rain. Ocean-safari boat launches through the surf are weather-dependent.

Honest expectations

It is a rustic, laid-back beach town rather than a polished resort, with simple lodges and a backpacker-and-diver vibe, so it suits the relaxed and the ocean-minded rather than luxury-seekers; the marine encounters, while excellent, are wild and never guaranteed. Getting there takes effort by road. For genuinely world-class diving with whale sharks and mantas and a gorgeous, low-key beach, though, Tofo is a highlight.

Nearby

The town of Inhambane and the beaches of the southern coast are close by.