Quirimbas National ParkAbout Quirimbas National Park
Quirimbas National Park is a protected area in Cabo Delgado Province in northern Mozambique that covers coastal, marine and island environments associated with the Quirimbas Archipelago. The park conserves reef systems, mangrove fringes and coastal forests and is important for marine biodiversity and traditional fisheries.
Island beaches, coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, and mangrove and coastal forest habitats. Many of the islands in the archipelago are low-lying and accessed by boat from coastal towns; marine tourism and community-based lodgings are a feature of the area.
The park was established to protect both terrestrial and marine values along this stretch of Mozambique’s coast and to support sustainable local livelihoods. Conservation and tourism management involve a mix of government oversight and local community initiatives.
Geographically the park runs along the northern Mozambican coast in Cabo Delgado Province and includes parts of the Quirimbas Archipelago offshore from the mainland. Access is typically by road to coastal towns and then by boat to islands.
- Habitats: The park includes both mainland and offshore island habitats, protecting coral reefs, mangroves and coastal forest.
- Best time to visit: Seasonal weather affects marine visibility; the drier months are generally best for diving and snorkeling along the archipelago.
Best Time to Visit Quirimbas National Park
The dry season (May-October) is the best time for marine activities-clear water and reliable weather.
Weather & Climate near Quirimbas National Park
Quirimbas National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 18°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1053 mm/year), wettest in January with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Acceptable | 22° - 32° | 27° | 231 mm | overcast | 84% | 2.2 m/s | 2.5 extreme | 12.6h |
| February | Acceptable | 22° - 32° | 27° | 184 mm | overcast | 85% | 2.0 m/s | 2.6 extreme | 12.4h |
| March | Acceptable | 22° - 32° | 27° | 209 mm | overcast | 84% | 1.8 m/s | 2.5 extreme | 12.1h |
| April | Good | 22° - 31° | 26° | 154 mm | partly cloudy | 82% | 2.3 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 11.7h |
| May | Excellent | 20° - 31° | 25° | 44 mm | some cloud | 79% | 2.5 m/s | 1.9 very high | 11.4h |
| June | Ideal | 19° - 30° | 24° | 16 mm | some cloud | 76% | 2.6 m/s | 1.6 very high | 11.3h |
| July | Ideal | 18° - 29° | 24° | 19 mm | some cloud | 75% | 3.1 m/s | 1.7 very high | 11.3h |
| August | Ideal | 19° - 29° | 24° | 5 mm | some cloud | 75% | 2.3 m/s | 2.0 very high | 11.6h |
| September | Ideal | 19° - 30° | 25° | 3 mm | mostly sunny | 76% | 2.4 m/s | 2.3 extreme | 11.9h |
| October | Ideal | 20° - 31° | 26° | 9 mm | mostly sunny | 77% | 2.8 m/s | 2.5 extreme | 12.3h |
| November | Excellent | 21° - 32° | 27° | 44 mm | some cloud | 77% | 2.7 m/s | 2.7 extreme | 12.6h |
| December | Good | 22° - 32° | 27° | 135 mm | partly cloudy | 80% | 2.6 m/s | 2.7 extreme | 12.7h |
How to Get to Quirimbas National Park
Quirimbas National Park’s islands are reached by boat from Pemba (the provincial capital) or via organized liveaboard cruises. Flights to Pemba operate from Maputo and domestic hubs; from Pemba’s port, boats and dhows travel to the archipelago (trips range from 1-6 hours depending on destination).
Organized operators in Pemba handle transfers and park permits; private charters are available but confirm mooring and landing arrangements in advance.
Tips for Visiting Quirimbas National Park
- Plan for a liveaboard or organized marine safari to explore the offshore reefs-many of the park's best sites are only accessible by boat.
- Bring USD in small bills for park permits and local guides; banking infrastructure is limited in remote areas.
- Protect coral with reef-safe sunscreen and avoid anchoring on reefs-use mooring buoys when available.