Image Credit: Liandra Jennifer
Ilha de Moçambique is a small coral island located off the northern coast of Mozambique in Nampula Province. Despite its size, it is one of the most important tourist centres in Southern Africa and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is known for its scenic coastline, historic architecture, and unique blend of African, Arab, and European influences, which reflect centuries of interaction through trade and colonisation.
Historically, Ilha de Moçambique served as the capital of Portuguese East Africa for over four hundred years and was a major trading post along the Indian Ocean. It connected Africa with Arabia, India, and Europe, making it a centre for commerce and cultural exchange. Key attractions such as the Fortress of São Sebastião, old churches, mosques, and colonial buildings highlight its rich past and attract visitors interested in history and heritage.
Today, Ilha de Moçambique plays an important role in promoting cultural and heritage tourism in Mozambique. Tourism on the island supports local livelihoods through hospitality, guiding, fishing, and craft-making, while also encouraging the preservation of historical monuments. As a tourist centre, it offers visitors an educational and cultural experience, making it a valuable destination in Southern Africa.