We’ve seen many clients who often describe themselves as beach and relaxation lovers. And even though all of our clients possess different passions, interests, and preferences, beach and relaxation lovers, generally speaking, shy away from group excursions and cruise holidays. Instead, they seek refuge at exotic beaches and flock to the waters of secluded destinations. Fortunately for beach and relaxation lovers, Africa has some real gems in store for them.

Below we’ve highlighted some of the best destinations for travelers with an irresistible attraction to stunning beaches and water:

1. Cape Town and the Garden Route: With the power of a magnet, South Africa’s Cape Town and Garden Route beaches have been beckoning international travelers to their beaches for decades. And it’s no wonder why. With exceptional weather between the months of September and April, and spectacular natural surroundings—including backdrops filled with mountains, wild flower fields, and jagged cliffs—Cape Town and the Garden Route provide the ultimate setting for a revitalizing vacation.

Hout Bay is one of Cape Town’s most famous beach areas, visited primarily for sunbathing, whale and Cape fur seal watching, walks along the shore, and leisurely horseback riding. The Bay is also home to a pier, which is celebrated for its amazing fish and chips eateries, which line the walkway. Some of Cape Town’s other delightful beaches include Cliffton and Camps Bay.

The Garden Route also offers charming beach getaways, including Mossel Bay, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay. Each and every one of these beach areas has something incredible to offer its visitors.

Aside from its breathtaking beaches, Mossel Bay also boasts a Maritime Museum, Shell Museum, and an Aquarium, which can all be explored on your own—should you ever want to break from the beach.

Plettenberg Bay has one of the most spectacular backdrops of all the Garden Route beaches, with towering mountains lining the backdrop. A short distance from Plettenberg Bay beaches are some of South Africa’s most renowned golf courses, which are a must visit for avid golfers.

2. Mnemba Island: Whether you just want to sit on a beach and relax for 10 days straight or embark on a scuba diving safari, Mnemba Island is celebrated for its laid back days, spectacular climate, and unspoiled beaches. This gorgeous private island, which lies 2.8 miles off the coast of Tanzania, is the beach lover’s dream getaway. From private candlelit dinners beneath the stars to naps on secluded beach bandas, and sunbathing to kayaking, everything about the experience on Mnemba Island is surreal.

The perfect time to visit Mnemba Island is between the months of September and April when temperatures are between 70 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit—although, the island is beautiful during the months between May and August when temperatures are a bit cooler.

3. Benguerra Island: If you love the beach, ocean, seafood, luxury, and complete privacy, there is no better place to escape to than Mozambique’s Benguerra Island. Aside from peaceful sun-drenched days on the beach, Benguerra Island also beckons visitors to explore its coastline via horseback, island walks, kayaks, and dhow cruises. Or take a trip beneath the surface into the aquatic wonderland that surrounds this charming island. While scuba diving or snorkeling, you’ll come across hundreds of dazzling reef fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, moray eels, stingrays, and stunning hard and soft corals. And for an evening filled with sensational cuisine and a quaint ambiance, enjoy a seafood dinner on the beach beneath the stars.

Similar to Mnemba Island, the perfect time to visit Benguerra Island is during the months between September and April when temperatures reach in the high 80s (Fahrenheit). So why not island hop between those months to both islands?

Want to learn more about the beaches of Africa? View one of our past posts, The Great Islands of Africa: Plan Your Tropical Retreat.

Below is our list of the top five things to see and do while visiting Mozambique:

Uncover “Africa’s Lost Eden”: Named “Africa’s Lost Eden” by National Geographic, Gorongosa National Park, located at the southern tip of Mozambique’s Great Rift Valley, is a majestic paradise characterized by surreal beauty and captivating energy. With a fascinating history, matched only by a few other places in the world, Gorongosa has experienced unrivaled stardom, one of the world’s worst civil wars, and a remarkable and highly successful restoration phase—all within the last 50 years. Today, visitors can witness the Gorongosa that received so much attention by celebrities in the 1960s, thanks to recent conservation efforts. While visiting Gorongosa you’ll have the opportunity to embark on exciting game drives and bush walks to witness The Big Five, breathtaking landscapes, and an abundance of birdlife.

Where to stay: Explore Gorongosa Camp

Visit Ibo Island: Many travelers have probably never heard of Ibo Island, which is why this secluded Mozambique destination has remained a hidden treasure for so long. Comprised of unspoiled coral reefs, charming coves, expansive beaches, and enchanting mangrove forests, visitors have the opportunity to explore fascinating eco-systems, unique biodiversity, and exceptional beauty. One of the most intriguing elements about this island is its historical reputation as a haven for pirates and ivory trading.

Some of the best activities to take part in while visiting Ibo Island include cultural and historical island tours, shipwreck snorkeling excursions, and kayaking safaris through the mangroves.

Where to stay: Ibo Island Lodge

Relax on a Benguerra Island beach picnic and island drive: Embark on Azura resort’s Southpoint Beach Picnic and Island Drive excursion through Benguerra Island, where you’ll learn from experienced environmentalists and community guides about the island’s people, culture, and unique biodiversity. Specifically, you’ll visit a local village, before enjoying a nice scenic drive to Southpoint. On your way to Southpoint, Azura’s environmentalist will educate you on the indigenous fauna and flora species. Upon arrival at Southpoint, you’ll be escorted to the area’s swimming hot spot where you can enjoy a calming swim in the water or a relaxing nap on the beach as your guide sets up a delightful picnic.

Where to stay: Azura resort

Scuba Dive at Two Mile Reef: Located in the Bazaruto Archipelago of Mozambique lies an enchanting dive sight, Two Mile Reef. With some of the best variety of marine life to witness, Two Mile Reef has been attracting seasoned divers for years and is perfect for all levels of divers. Some of the creatures often witnessed at Two Mile Reef include hundreds of species of colorful reef fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, moray eels, stingrays, and stunning hard and soft corals.

Where to stay: Marlin Lodge

Go Island Hopping: Enjoy a relaxing sunset Dhow cruise to Linga Linga, a peninsula located in the Inhambane Province of Mozambique. For those of you who might not know what a Dhow is, it’s a traditional Arab sailing vessel, operated by a sail and crew. On your sunset cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to sip a sundowner cocktail while searching for the elusive dugong. A close relative of the elephant, Dugongs are endangered underwater creatures that closely resemble the appearance of a manatee. Long ago, men at sea believed these creatures were mermaids or sirens.

Where to stay: Flamingo Bay Water Lodge

Want to get an even deeper insight on Mozambique? View our Mozambique safari tours video here.

Imagine a place where thousands of animals roam freely without the constraints of fences or boundaries—a place where stunning, unexplored land stretches as far as the eye can see. This place exists at the southern tip of Mozambique’s Great Rift Valley. This place is Gorongosa National Park.

But Gorongosa’s past wasn’t always filled with indescribable beauty. Rather, the area experienced one of the ugliest civil wars in history that turned its reputation from a celebrity retreat to devastated ruins. And now, it’s coming back full circle to claim its spot as one of the world’s most acclaimed destinations.

Below is a brief timeline that explains Gorongosa’s history and its path toward a brighter future:

1960s: A Bustling Hot Spot

Gorongosa was in its heyday in the 1960s, attracting dozens of celebrities and internationally-known personalities to its stunning landscape. Jetsetters and wealthy individuals would come to Gorongosa for some relaxation and exceptional game viewing opportunities. As one of the most wildlife-rich regions in all of Africa, Gorongosa received much acclaim for its plentiful wildlife.

During the 60s, Gorongosa was celebrated for its . . .

• Wildebeest population of 6,400.
• Hippo population of 3,500.
• Zebra population of 3,300.
• Somewhat plentiful black and whit rhino population.

Click image of video below to view historical Gorongosa:

1980s: The Fall

As the 80s approached, Gorongosa began to see political and social unrest. A civil war broke out, lasting more than 15 years. As the war continued through the years, Gorongosa’s once thriving land, wildlife, and people were devastated by the haunting effects. In total, over a million people and animals were killed during these brutal years, making this civil war one of the worst in history.

After the war diminished, Gorongosa was left in ruins, and to witness an animal in the wild was a rare sighting. If the wildlife that lived there wasn’t killed off, they were in hiding.

2000s: A Rebirth

Enter Greg Carr. As a former corporate CEO, Carr decided he wanted to start a new chapter in his life in the early 2000s, one that would allow him to give back to communities in need. Gorongosa struck his eye and he realized that this land had the potential to be brought back to its once magnificent and unspoiled condition.

Collaborating closely with the Mozambique government, Greg Carr established The Carr Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring Gorongosa’s wildlife, economy, and communities. In January, 2008, The Carr Foundation signed a 20-year contract that set in motion a $40 million mission that would introduce wildlife back into the region and spark growth in the local economy.

The primary focus of this 20-year contract is to create a self-sustaining Mozambique. In other words, the vision of the Foundation is to restore Mozambique to its original condition, while providing employment to locals, building educational and health care facilities, and reintroducing wildlife back into Gorongosa.

Because Gorongosa does not contain any fences around its perimeter, animals may roam freely in and out of this national park. And while the war was in full swing, hundreds of animals retreated to other locations in search of sanctuary. Today, the animals’ fears are beginning to diminish and they are slowly starting to trickle back into the park. With a little help from South Africa, The Carr Foundation was able to relocate buffalo, wildebeest, elephant, and hippos from Kruger National Park to Gorongosa. Now, Gorongosa has a strong wildlife base for breeding.

Carr believes that once the wildlife and communities have been restored in Mozambique, tourism will increase and travelers will pour into the area once again to witness a restored legendary land.

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We all have different reasons for seeking vacations. Some prefer to relax beachside in a motionless state, while others seek adventure and excitement. And then there are those people who are on a mission to explore and discover life’s hidden beauties and treasures. No matter the motivation behind your vacation, Africa is a continent that serves all desires, preferences, and personalities.

If you’re an individual who seeks vacations that embody relaxation, Africa might not come to mind as an option for your next trip. When you think of sitting on a beach, reading by the pool, or enjoying a quiet dinner for two beneath the stars, you might think of popular tropical locales such as the Caribbean, French Polynesia, and the British Virgin Islands. But what you might not realize is that Africa is one of the most relaxing destinations on earth. Whether you want to lay by your private plunge pool overlooking a game-rich watering hole, sleep and dine beneath the stars in a private bush den, experience a rejuvenating, nature-inspired spa treatment, or enjoy a leisurely horseback wine tasting tour in the majestic Cape Winelands, the options to completely unwind are truly endless.

Below are 5 of our favorite destinations in Africa that are perfect for relaxation:

Garden Route: It’s impossible not to melt into a state of sheer relaxation while visiting the Garden Route in South Africa. Comprised of majestic mountains, panoramic views, lush valleys full of wildflowers, lakes, forests, and miles upon miles of unspoiled white, powdery beaches, the Garden Route is a relaxation haven. Whether you want to lay by the ocean and soak in Africa’s brilliant sun rays, walk through fauna- and flora-rich valleys, fish in the many lakes, or enjoy a day of golfing, the Garden Route’s landscape ignites a sense of calmness within everyone who visits.

Cape Winelands: Home to acres upon acres of rolling hills and charming, family-owned wine estates and vineyards, it’s hard to argue that Cape Winelands isn’t the epitome of relaxation. With your first sight of sprawling vineyards, and your first sip of South African cabernet, your heart will melt with the feeling of comfort and warmth. After you’ve enjoyed a few wine tastings, read a book in one of the area’s manicured gardens, or enjoy a picnic in the camphor forest. This region is so relaxing that time seems to vanish and thoughts of responsibilities become a thing of the past.

Bazaruto Archipelago: Do you consider relaxation to be sipping a cocktail on a secluded beach as you stroll for seashells on the untouched shoreline? If so, then Bazaruto Archipelago is your heaven. Encrusted with pristine, white beaches, the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago are perfect for individuals who choose destinations primarily for their beaches.

Particularly stunning and romantic is the archipelago’s private island, Medjumbe. As an unbelievable haven for aquatic and island dwelling creatures, this extremely exclusive island is your place to unwind and find serenity in the ocean breeze.

Zanzibar: Beach lovers and ocean enthusiasts find pure paradise in Zanzibar. From blissful afternoons on the beach to snorkeling above a colorful fish-covered reef, and fresh lobster dinners on your private balcony to walking through a trans-inducing vanilla plantation, Zanzibar is celebrated for its pure tranquility. And to take your mind and body into an even deeper state of relaxation, enjoy a rejuvenating massage and spa treatment in the privacy of your very own beach villa or bungalow.

Lion Sands Private Game Reserve: Famous for their Chalkley Treehouse, Lion Sands offers couples a private retreat that immediately induces relaxation upon entering. Nestled in a 500-year-old leadwood tree, the Chalkley Treehouse is lit by the subtle glow of 19th-century-style lanterns that encircle a linen-lined bush bed and dining area. At night, guests can listen to the soft rhythm of the bush and enjoy a candlelit dinner beneath the stars. It’s impossible not to find pure relaxation in a setting so isolated and luxurious.

The reserve also offers astronomy lessons for guests interested in hearing about the solar system’s place in African folklore. All you have to do is sit back and soak in the beauty of the night’s sky. What could be more relaxing? In addition, the reserve offers golf excursions, and features a luxurious, state-of-the-art spa.

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Right off the coast of Africa thousands of miles of aquatic wonderland and mystery await scientists, divers, and snorkelers alike. Some of the most famous sites for diving and snorkeling include South Africa, Mozambique, and Zanzibar. Many underwater creatures witnessed in these waters include green and leatherback turtles, barracuda, marlin, sharks, manta ray, and thousands of variations of reef fish.

But what also lies beneath these waters are some of the world’s most magnificent and mysterious creatures that have been attracting divers to their underwater lairs for years.

See below for a spotlight on three of Africa’s most enchanting underwater sights:

The Dugong: A close relative of the elephant, Dugongs are endangered underwater creatures that closely resemble the appearance of a manatee. They eat underwater vegetation throughout the day and night using their bulbous snouts to rummage for underwater grasses. Averaging a lifespan of nearly 70 years, these aquatic mammals can hold their breath for approximately six minutes before having to surface for air.

Long ago, men at sea believed these creatures were mermaids or sirens.

Image above of a dugong taken from animals.nationalgeographic.com.

The Sardine Run: The underwater version of the Great Migration, The Sardine Run is an annual migration that involves thousands of sharks, dolphins, fur seals, albatross, whales, and, of course, millions of sardines. It is truly one of the world’s most fascinating spectacles to witness.

Image above taken from EcoBlog.co.za.

As you plunge beneath the surface, you’ll witness thousands upon thousands of glistening, silver sardines gather in tightly compact balls as dolphins and other predators circle in anticipation for a feast. As the ball spins faster and faster, dolphins plunge through the cloud of sardines at astonishingly fast speeds to get a mouthful of tasty fish.

Advanced divers from all around the world come to witness this annual feast, which occurs in the month of June.

The Great White: Off the coast of the Cape Peninsula lies one of the world’s most feared and fascinating predators, the great white shark. Made an international celebrity by Hollywood in the epic film Jaws, the great white shark has become an icon of sheer terror in the eyes of many. But in reality, it is not nearly as man-thirsty as most of us believe it to be. Just like the big cats of Africa, the great white is a carnivore simply looking for its next meal. It does not kill everything and anything in its sight as many would like to believe.

Weighing in at more than 5,000 lbs. and growing in lengths between 15 and 20 ft., the great white shark is one of the world’s largest predators. Whether you want to witness these creatures from the comfort of a boat or from the safety of a dive cage, there are a variety of safe ways to encounter these predators in South African waters.

And, as many of you might have seen on Discovery Channel’s shark week, South Africa is home to the elusive air jaws. For years, scientists have gathered around the waters of the Cape Peninsula waiting for sightings of great white sharks to leap out of the water and bite down on their pray. Although it’s a rare sight to see, it’s one of the most heart-pounding and fascinating visions.

What’s your most unique underwater experience?

Want to experience luxury in its purest form? If so, then you’ll want to charter a private yacht that whisks you and your family away to remote islands off the coast of Africa. Whether you want to captain your own yacht or charter a fully-staffed yacht, the choice is up to you. But no matter what you choose, there is one thing for certain: you will experience an unforgettable getaway in pure luxury.

Image above taken from the Cape Grace Hotel website.

When you charter a fully-serviced, private yacht, your boat will come equipped with superior staff that includes a Captain / Skipper, deckhands, a gourmet chef, and, depending on the size of the yacht, a hostess and engineers. And the best part is that every crew member has all of their focus on you and your family. It is all about you. Whatever you desire, you’ll receive immediate attention.

When you charter a luxury yacht for your African family vacation, you’ll experience . . .

• Five-star, spacious living quarters. Many of the yachts have several cabins with bunks and double beds.
• Private family time. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing breakfast on deck, partake in a snorkeling safari, or relax beneath the brilliant sun on deck, you can do it all while sharing the experience with your family and no one else.
• A flexible itinerary that enables you to stay and leave a destination whenever you wish. If you happen to visit Zanzibar and want to partake in a spice plantation tour but your itinerary doesn’t permit, you can always change it around to accommodate! Stay an extra day or leave a day early—time is in your hands.
• Gourmet cuisine where and when you’d like it, prepared to your specific preferences. Your private chef will prepare food exactly how you like it. No large groups coming and going, which means each dish is created with the utmost attention to detail, yielding pure perfection.
• Exciting water sports for the entire family to enjoy such as jet skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, waterskiing, wake boarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more. Your boat will be equipped with a sporting professional who will man the dingy and prepare all of your equipment. He can also take you to and from the shore for beach relaxation, nightlife, and more.

So put your mind at ease, forget about your responsibilities for a few weeks in paradise, and set sail on your very own, private yacht.

Have you ever chartered a private yacht? What was it like?

Below, we’ve highlighted 5 of the most remarkable islands / archipelagos off the coast of Africa:

Mauritius: Synonymous with enchanting paradise, Mauritius isn’t just a tropical wonderland, it’s an island filled with fascinating history, legendary beaches, exciting nightlife, and exotic wildlife. With a wide spectrum of exciting things to see, do, and discover, Mauritius is a place where explorers-at-heart find self-discovery and enriching experiences.

Image above taken from MTPA Tourism Office website.

Some of the island’s most popular activities include shopping and dining out at Grand Bay, soaking in the rays on Pereybére beach, visiting the Balaclava Ruins, mountain biking through the mystical Labourdonnais Orchards, and much more.

And did you know that Mauritius isn’t technically considered African? Although it’s an island off the east coast of Africa, Mauritius is actually considered an independent nation.

Image above taken from MTPA Tourism Office website.

Seychelles: Similar to Mauritius, Seychelles is not considered a part of Africa—it is an independent nation that lies off the eastern coast of Africa. Comprised of 115 different islands, the Seychelles Archipelago lies in the Indian Ocean nearly 299 miles off the coast of Africa.

41 of the 115 Seychelles Islands are actually considered the world’s oldest granite islands in the middle of the ocean.

Currently, 16 Seychelles Islands offer accommodation, which ranges everywhere from luxurious hotels to waterfront bungalows. One of our favorite accommodations within Seychelles is Wilderness Safari’s North Island Camp. As one of Seychelles’ most exotic, secluded islands, North Island is the epitome of paradise. Filled with rolling mountains, shady palm trees, lush wildernesses, and pristine beaches, North Island is a place where time stands still and relaxation is redefined. When you’re not walking barefoot along the sand or lounging Oceanside, take advantage of the captivating terrain of the island by embarking on a horseback riding excursion, guided walk, fishing tour, golf safari, snorkeling safari, scuba diving exploration, or kayaking expedition.

In addition to exciting outdoor activities, Seychelles is also known for its exceptional local Creole fare. Whether you want to dine in sheer luxury at one of Seychelles’ fine dining establishments, or enjoy a romantic, candlelit dinner on the tranquil beaches, the opportunities are endless.

Madagascar: Considered the fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar lies off the east coast of Africa and is considered an independent nation. Because of Madagascar’s isolation from other nations, many of its residential wildlife are endemic to the area and can be found nowhere else on earth!

Image above taken from WildlifeMadagascar.org

The people of Madagascar are some of the most culturally fascinating and beautiful people in the world. Believed to be descendants of Indonesians and Africans, the Malagasy have a unique culture that has been shaped by various cultures for more than 2,000 years.

Visitors to the island can see colorful frogs, cuddly lemurs, breathtaking birds, and bizarre mammals. So if you’re looking to visit a destination that is truly unlike any other place on earth, than Madagascar is calling your name.

Zanzibar: An island off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is known for its exceptional underwater gardens, making it a haven for scuba divers and snorkelers. Swim alongside over 400 species of tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and free roaming dolphins. And when you tire from the ocean or the beach, venture to the social and cultural hub of Zanzibar, Stone Town.

This ancient town’s quaint streets are saturated with over 200 years worth of history and culture, reflected in Arab architecture and intriguing museums and ancient sites. While traveling through this cultural hub, you won’t want to miss out on the  Forodhani Gardens for some Swahili culinary delights, fresh seafood, and delectable spices, grown right in Zanzibar’s world-famous spice plantations. And, before leaving Zanzibar, you must see the red colobus monkey—exclusive to Zanzibar—in Jozani Forest.

Bazaruto Archipelago: Right off the coast of Mozambique lays one of Africa’s best kept secrets—the Bazaruto Archipelago. This cluster of five, untouched tropical islands is home to straw colored beaches, exotic aquatic life, phenomenal seafood, adventurous activities, and stunning landscapes. And the best part about this distant paradise? They embody the term “untouched.” Completely free from tourist attractions and institutions, these islands have no roads . . . no shops . . . and no bustling town center.

Whether you want to visit one of the fresh water lakes on Bazaruto Island and witness dozens upon dozens of vibrant flamingos, or travel beneath the aquatic surface to view thriving coral reefs and shipwrecks, you’ll find something new and unique to take part in each day.

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Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon or your 50th wedding anniversary, you deserve an unforgettable, romantic getaway with your loved one.

And what’s more romantic than scuba diving side by side as a sea turtle picks at coral beneath you, sailing along a glistening coastline, or walking barefoot on the beach?
Speckled all along the southern coast of Africa are some of the world’s most romantic and unspoiled beaches. Relax beneath Africa’s golden sun or scuba through an ancient shipwreck as you unwind on island time. Nothing is more peaceful for the mind, body, and soul.
Although Africa’s coastline seems almost endless, there are two particular regions of this great continent that stand out as the most romantic and tranquil beach destinations. Below, discover how Zanzibar and Mozambique got their prestigious status as world-renowned getaways:

Zanzibar:

Escape from the pressures and responsibilities of everyday life as you melt beneath the soothing hands of a masseuse from the privacy of your own beach villa on Tanzania’s world-renowned archipelago, Zanzibar.

Known for its exceptional underwater gardens, Zanzibar is a scuba diving and snorkeling phenomenon. With yards and yards of crystal clear visibility, exploring the waters surrounding Zanzibar is a spectacle of underwater wonderland.

One of Zanzibar’s most exclusive and romantic islands is Mnemba Island. Engulfed by an underwater paradise, Mnemba Island is an open treasure chest offering explorations everywhere from the land to the sea. Swim alongside over 400 species of fish, vibrant coral reefs, and free roaming dolphins.

When—or if—you tire of the beach, venture into the social and cultural hub of Zanzibar, Stone Town. This ancient town’s quaint streets are lined with over 200 years worth of history and culture, reflected in Arab architecture and intriguing museums and ancient sites. And don’t forget to visit Stone Town’s Forodhani Gardens for some Swahili culinary delights, fresh seafood, and delectable spices, grown right in Zanzibar’s world-famous spice plantations.

And, before leaving Zanzibar, you must see the red colobus monkey—exclusive to Zanzibar—in Jozani Forest.

Mozambique:

Nothing is more soothing than visiting Mozambique’s white coastline and neighboring islands after an action-packed week on safari.  As a place where time slows and the senses become sharper, Mozambique isn’t just relaxing—it’s stimulating.

Feed your desire for exploration as you scuba dive beside shipwrecks and astonishing coral reefs and witness an aquatic legend—the dugong—as you partake on a dhow cruise to Linga Linga.

With an abundance of fresh, delectable prawns and other savory seafood, Mozambique is a seafood lover’s paradise. Every day is a culinary extravaganza on the islands off the coast of Mozambique.

Particularly stunning and romantic is Mozambique’s private island, Medjumbe. As an unbelievable haven for aquatic and island dwelling creatures this extremely exclusive island beckons you to search for new discoveries and excitement.

Explore coves and crevasses or relax on a swaying hammock strategically staked in the ebbing shore. Or, go barefoot as you comb the beach for fully in tacked shells.

Whatever you desire, Mozambique has it all.

At the southern tip of Mozambique’s Great Rift Valley lies one of the world’s most buried treasures. Known years ago as the earth’s most wildlife-dense and unspoiled region, Gorongosa National Park was once bubbling over with grunting hippos, regal lions, gentle elephants, striking birds, playful wild dog, and leaping antelope. But after a destructive, 16-year civil dispute that began in the 1970s, Gorongosa began to shift into a pit of darkness.  Just how much destruction did this civil unrest do to Gorongosa?

• The Cape buffalo population went from 13,000 to 15.
• The wildebeest population went from 6,400 to 1.
• The hippo went from 3,500 to 44.
• The zebra went from 3,300 to 12.
• The black and white rhino population fell to 0.

A place that once was known for its endless amount of animals was down to less than 100 individual creatures. By the late 1970s and early 80s, Gorongosa laid to rest its reputation as one of Africa’s most beloved and stunning wildlife regions—only to begin resuscitating its claim to fame, again, in 2005.

With nearly 2,500 square miles of lush grasslands and widespread floodplains, elephants, birds, lions, and antelope are now reclaiming Gorongosa has their protected home. Today, the river is abundant with active birds and Nile crocodiles, and the grasslands are swarming with joyful herds of zebra and Cape buffalo.

But how did Gorongosa reestablish its wildlife population and fragile eco-systems after nearly 20 years of barren savanna? It took the powerful vision of one man who had the hope and conviction that Gorongosa could restore its past reputation as Africa’s prime wildlife region. This businessman-turned-philanthropist, is none other than Greg Carr.

Gorongosa National Park’s uplifting transformation:
Breaking free from the norm, in every possible way, Greg Carr is raising the bar for individual conservation contributions, not only in Africa, but also nationwide. With a $40 million, 30-year-pledge to bring life back to Mozambique’s Gorongosa National Park, Carr’s epic contribution to Gorongosa’s conservation is one of the largest individual efforts ever seen in Africa—in both financial and time contribution.

Greg Carr, also known as Gorongosa’s father of conservation, fell in love with the area years ago and established the Carr Foundation in 2005.

For five years (and counting) Greg Carr is managing to do a complete 360-degree-turnaround with Gorongosa. He is not simply throwing in money and waiting to see what everyone will do with it. He’s taking advice, working with the locals for a better Gorongosa, and lending a hand.

Below are merely a few specific efforts Carr is implementing to help conserve Gorongosa and bring it back to its once thriving state:

• Employing over 100 game scouts: Carr’s decision to hire game scouts has not only helped to prevent poachers from entering the Park, but it has also benefited the hired game scouts, who are locals, bring money into their community. The direct and highly-effective efforts put forth by the game scouts have enabled animals to breed and increase in population, and they are now not as timid toward humans as they were before Carr’s first arrival to the Park.

• Introducing new animals to the Park: With a little help from South Africa, the Carr Foundation was able to relocate buffalo, wildebeest, elephant, and hippos from Kruger National Park to Gorongosa. Now, Gorongosa has a strong wildlife base for breeding.

• Working to increase eco-tourism companies: Bringing in eco-tourism companies can be difficult when there are too few animals for safari tours to operate. This is why Carr is working hard to bring in animals from South Africa. Through an effort to increase eco-tourism companies in the area, Carr hopes to attract thousands of tourists a year, without taking away from Gorongosa’s authenticity and exclusivity. The outcome of more eco-tourism companies is a more sustainable local environment, economy, and community. Today, Gorongosa’s yearly tourist count is roughly 8,000, but those involved in increasing eco-tourism efforts in the Park predict that in 10 years, tourist population will reach 100,000 annually.

• Providing community members with a financial stake in Gorongosa conservation: In order to drastically reduce human / wildlife conflict, and encourage support for the Carr Foundation and their epic efforts, Carr is providing an incentive to the locals. Allowing nearby communities to have a financial stake in the Park’s conservation efforts, Carr hopes to drastically reduce tension between humans and wildlife and increase community participation in helping Gorongosa thrive. Merely a year after first establishing the Carr Foundation, locals were warming up to Carr’s efforts as he hired many of them to be guide visitors around the land, build tree nurseries, and replant vital flora. He also hired more than 100 locals to be game scouts around the Park.

But Gorongosa isn’t completely in the clear. In order to seal its revitalized state into a permanent way of life, conservation models need to be put in places and strictly enforced to eliminate human / wildlife conflict, bring economic stability to the local population, help sustain fragile eco-systems, and restore and protect wildlife.

Image taken from jewishvirtuallibrary.org

Legend has it that nearly 2500 years ago a group of Jewish people, lead by Jewish priests, left Judea in an effort to facilitate trade. They settled in Yemen and built a city called Senna. They were then known as the BaSenna (people from Senna). They eventually moved from Senna to settle in Africa.

They settled for a time in Tanzania, building another city called Senna. They thrived here but moved again, further south, into Mozambique, establishing a third Senna. From here they moved inland and established their modern day roots in South Eastern Zimbabwe and South Africa.

South Eastern Zimbabwe is full of myths and legends. The lost city of King Soloman is supposedly on the sides of a mountain in the present day Gona Re Zhou National Park. Coins from the times of the crusaders and Richard The Lion Heart have been said to be found in the ruins of Great Zimbabwe. Arab Dows are believed to have traveled up the Save River to trade with the peoples of Great Zimbabwe. A group of people known as the Lemba people claim to be direct descendants of a select group of Jewish priests who left Judea over 2,500 years ago. None of these fantastical stories have any scientific substance, at least all but one.

Image taken from jewishvirtuallibrary.org

A few years ago a study took place on the DNA of the Lemba people. This study proved, without a single doubt, that their Y-chromosomes are a direct link to Jewish peoples. Men from the Buba clan—which oral tradition states that they were the clan of priests that led them out of Judea 2,500 years ago—carry a Y-chromosome known as the Cohen modal haplotype (CMH). Among Jewish people around the world, the marker is also most prevalent in the Jewish Kohanim, or priests.

Many of the Lemba peoples are now Christian but they have a Shabbat day, call themselves the chosen people, do not eat pork, practice animal slaughter in a way so as to make it fit for human consumption, place a star of David on their tombstones, and discourage their people from marrying outside of the Lemba tribe.

The Lemba people claim that they built the great enclosure at Great Zimbabwe, this has never been proven either way. They also claim to have carried a sacred object known as the ‘Ngoma Lungundu” or drum that thunders or the voice of God from Jedea. It is theorized by some that this was at one time the Ark of the Covenant, rebuilt by the Lemba over the years after the original exploded in battle. The modern Ngoma Lungundu is thought to be sitting in a dusty storeroom in a museum in Harare.