1.49M
Population (2017 census)
68,615 km²
Area
14
Districts
1534
Portuguese trading post founded

Inhambane: History & Culture

Discover Inhambane

Inhambane town existed as an Arab and Swahili trading post by the 10th century, long before Vasco da Gama sailed past in 1498 and the Portuguese built a permanent trading post here in 1534. That long coastal trade left grand old churches and shaded avenues in a town still called the ‘City of Smiles’. Today the province is better known for its coast: Tofo’s whale sharks and manta rays, Barra’s dunes, and the Bazaruto Archipelago, protected as Mozambique’s first national park since 1971. The Chopi people’s timbila xylophone orchestras, UNESCO-recognised in 2008, remain a living tradition here.

Key Attractions

Tofo Beach, Barra Beach, Bazaruto Archipelago, Inhambane town, Vilanculos, Zinave National Park

Heritage & Landmarks

What Makes Inhambane Special

🏖️

Tofo Beach

World-renowned whale shark and manta ray diving hub

🏝️

Bazaruto Archipelago

Mozambique's first national park (1971); coral islands and rare dugongs

⛪

Inhambane town

Arab trading post since the 10th century; Portuguese post from 1534

🎶

Chopi Timbila

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2008; xylophone orchestra tradition

Explore Inhambane

All Destinations

Where to Stay

Featured Accommodation

Hostel
9.4
Exceptional
Lehani Beach Hostel, Tofo ↗
📍 Tofo Beach Road, Tofo, Mozambique

Lehani Beach Hostel, Tofo Exceptional 9.4/10 backpackers in Tofo. From 184.08/night. Property Details Type: Backpackers Guest Rating: 9.4/10 (Booking.com, 110 reviews) Price Range: 184.08 per night Check-in: 14:00 Check-out: 11:00 Amenities Beachfront, Outdoor pool, Sun terrace, Bar, Coffee shop, Guest kitchen, Free WiFi, Free parking, Luggage storage, Airport transfers and shuttle bus, Small gym, Film...

✓ Beachfront✓ Outdoor pool✓ Sun terrace✓ Bar
Beach lodge
9.1
Exceptional
Kumba Lodge, Praia do Tofo ↗
📍 101 Coconut Drive, Praia do Tofo, Inhambane Province, Mozambique

Kumba Lodge, Praia do Tofo Excellent 9.1/10 lodge in Praia do Tofo, Tofo Beach. From MZN 4,400/night. Property Details Type: Lodge Guest Rating: 9.1/10 (Booking.com, 397 reviews) Price Range: MZN 4,400 – MZN 14,000 per night Check-in: 14:00 Check-out: 11:00 Rooms: 5 room types on the lodge's site: Ocean Bungalow, Palm Bungalow, Garden Room, Family...

✓ Beachfront infinity pool✓ Ocean-view restaurant✓ Yoga shala on the dunes✓ Coffee bar and cocktails

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