Yesterday was what we’d call a bit of a rough day. It started with us deciding to leave Tofu in search of more beautiful beaches in Vilanculos.
After watching the Rugby with a few other South Africans at Dino’s Bar on Saturday, we packed up that night and made our way along the beach to the Tofu bus “terminal” Sunday morning. Under the impression that the bus leaves at 6am, we got up at 4:15am, but only to find that on a Sunday it only arrives at 7!
Once in Inhambane, the plan was to withdraw cash in order to pay our way to Maxixe by boat, and then by taxi to Vilanculos. The weather was quite overcast and because of this the whole of Inhambane was without power, which meant no ATM’s, no money!
With a very unhappy taxi driver (we could only pay half of his fare) and a bit of small talk with the captain of the boat, we were eventually allowed on the boat, and moved onto Maxixe with hopes and prayers for working ATM’s on the other side. Luckily yes! And once again, we were sorted and on our way!
It was a tight, but worthwhile ride to Vilanculos with very bad, very bumpy roads and loads of stops. Once we arrived here, Ferdi yet again negotiated another taxi ride to Baobab Beach in return for one rugby ball and one soccer ball. Needless to say, the driver was willing, so we saved a few rand there. We set up camp at Baobab backpackers, checked out local facilities and found our feet with a great nights rest after a very cold shower and once again, no power!
But Hakuna Matatha!
No worries, because this morning we awoke to magnificent sunshine, clear blue skies and good conversation over a cup of coffee, which made all the adventures of yesterday seem inadequate. Actually, come to think of it, it was quite funny!
Vilanculos is situated upper North in Mozambique, and is well known for its surrounding Baziruto islands. One can look in amazement at the sandy beaches and crystal waters. There is not much entertainment round here so days are lazy and quiet.
While Ferdi goes spear fishing, I catch some rays or settle with reading or writing stories. When the tide is low, we take long walks and see what the local catch of the day is. Fresh seafood at your fingertips! And late afternoon swimming when the tide is in, is the best way to end of the day!
Daily trips are made to the Baziruto Islands at 1200 Meticais per person. This includes lunch and refreshments, as well as snorkelling, and snorkelling gear. And if you are lucky, you can swim with dolphins, but this is not guaranteed.
The central market and shops is a mere 10minute walk from the accommodation areas and unlike Inhambane there are internet facilities here as well.
We also found that rates for accommodation and beverages at these camp sites are cheaper than in Inhambane, but fruit and fish are more expensive.
At this stage the Rand exchange rate is very low and because of that, Mozambique is not cheap. But living is good seeing that we are not here to overspend, and the experience is much greater than what we ever bargained for!
Ciao!
Accommodation rates: Boabab Backpackers 150 Mets per person for camping.
Tip of the day:
I you are budget wise, it is best to stack up on food and drinks purchased at the market and shops in town. Even though accommodation is advertised to suit backpacker pockets, rates at these places aren’t.
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