activity

Fishing

The different reefs in the Bay of Barra and the warm waters of Mozambique provide some of the best game fishing in the world. It is easy and safe to launch your ski-boat from the beach. We support Tag & Release but you are welcome to take your catch home. Some of the Game species in these waters are: Marlin, Dorado, Yellowfin tuna, Kingfish, Prodigal Sun, Barracuda, Sailfish, Wahoo, Rainbow Runner and many more.

The calm waters of the bay provide excellent fly-fishing or you can venture into the huge lagoon by boat or fly-fish from its side. The accessible beaches offer endless opportunity for rock and surf fishing.
A “ fishing sport license “ is required for all the water sports, including fishing competitions, and can be obtained from the Maritime Administrator in each provincial capital city or from a yacht club.
Boats can only be launched from access roads. Noise should be minimized and care must be shown for the safety of people on the beaches ( maximum speed 15Km/h).

Please do not interfere with the activities of the local fisherman, as they depend on fishing for their livelihoods.

Water sports

There is an array of water-based activities for both divers and non-divers to take part in. Various well-equipped diving charters Divers: (enter for more information)... with experienced diving instructors are available in the area, enabling you to enjoy some of the world's best scuba waters. There is a total of 14 reefs to explore from Open Water depths to Advance including the world famous Manta Reef.

For the not-so-adventurous, we suggest snorkeling in the beautiful tidal pools, the sea or in the lagoon, which is a truly unforgettable experience.

With whale sharks and dolphins pretty much all year round in the Barra / Tofo area, the possibility for both divers and non-divers to have an unforgettable experience, is excellent. There are also Whale Shark trips, weather permitting, for families and friends to join the experience.

Other activities include sailing and yachting trips, Canoeing and Horse riding, which can all be arranged at nearby venues.

At Manta da Barra Lodge quad bikes are allowed to drive in and around the resort. We know that most quad drivers are responsible people but there are elements that have no respect for other people and their properties, so please abide by the rules as specified by Lodge Management.

Shopping and Sightseeing

Inhambane is the oldest port on the Southern African coast. Interesting places to visit are the museum, the Old Catholic Cathedral, the graveyard. There are also some wonderful old houses and buildings. From Inhambane you can take a trip on a ancient Dhow to Maxixe. Take your time to walk around Maxixe and do some shopping at the market and Indian shops for unbelievable bargains and exceptional curios! Local crafts and indigenous art can be purchased from all markets. These include masks, carvings and ornaments made of wood, soapstone, malachite and wire, as well as pottery, paintings and basket ware. Avoid purchasing natural items like ivory, as it is illegal to export these without a license. Other items that can be bought are grass mats to use on the beach, hats and salad bowls.

In the city of Inhambane you will find the local market. All of the above as well as a selection of fruit and vegetables, fish and prawns can be bought here. Make sure of the freshness of the prawns and fish. You can also change money at the market at a reasonable rate from the cigarette sellers. A bottle store is on the corner opposite of the market where soft drinks, beer and spirits are readily available. Right opposite the bottle store there is a bakery where you can buy fresh bread and rolls (Pao).

Dining

In Inhambane there are 3 restaurants with a selection of fine foods. The Masaroco Restaurant is opposite the Bank Commercial were the ATM is. Another one is on the waterfront next to the cathedral, called Pachicha with pizzas that will tantalize your taste buds! The third restaurant is situated on the grounds of Fervario Cottages next to the hospital at the waterfront.

In Tofu we recommend two restaurants. On Sundays the Albatross has a great lunch buffet with lots of seafood. Please remember to book before hand with Alan at telephone number +25 882 487 1510. You can also dine at Casa Barry, which is situated right on the sea.

While in Maxixe, you can have lunch at the STOP Restaurant. The food is good and tasteful. Watch out for the peri-peri dishes, as it can spoil your meal. IT IS VERY HOT!!!

There is also a variety of tropical beach bars in the vicinity, each characterized with its own island style vibe.

Capturing the moment

For photographers (both amateur and professional), the area surrounding Manta da Barra Lodge paths the way for exquisite once in a lifetime photography. Whatever the moment you would like to capture - underwater sea life, spectacular sunsets and sunrises, historical buildings, subtropical scenery or just fun holiday photos - Manta Da Barra Lodge is the place for you to do this from.