Inhaca is one of Mozambique's most accessible island escapes — a 52 km² sanctuary at the mouth of Maputo Bay that forms the northern tip of Maputo National Park. Unlike the remote Bazaruto Archipelago 700 km to the north, Inhaca can be reached from the capital in under an hour by speedboat, making it the perfect add-on to a Maputo city break or pre-safari relaxation day.
Why Visit Inhaca Island?
The island combines elements rarely found so close to a capital city:
- Protected marine reserve — Coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles and seasonal humpback whales (June–November)
- Pristine beaches — White sand on both the calm bay side and the open Indian Ocean coast
- Portuguese Island (Ilha dos Portugueses) — A narrow sand spit 200 metres from Inhaca, popular for swimming and picnics
- Santa Maria Peninsula — Often included in day trips for additional snorkelling and beach time
- Marine research centre — One of the oldest in southern Africa, studying Indian Ocean ecosystems
- Historic lighthouse — Mount Inhaca's 1894 lighthouse offers panoramic bay views
How to Get to Inhaca from Maputo
There are three main ways to cross Maputo Bay:
1. Public ferry (Kanyaka) — Operated by Transmarítima from Maputo Marina, the Kanyaka is the traditional option. Departures run Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 08:00, and Friday at 11:00. The crossing takes approximately 2.5–3 hours. Return fares range from 1,000 MT (executive class) to 1,360 MT (tourist class). Arrive at least 30 minutes early and check schedules in advance — departures can be affected by weather.
2. Private speedboat — Faster and more flexible, speedboats depart from the Maputo Nautical School or fishing port and reach Inhaca in 45–60 minutes. Operators include Bússola Azul and independent charters. Round-trip fares start around 1,800 MT per person. Ideal for day trippers who want maximum time on the island.
3. Guided day trip (recommended) — Mabeco's Coastal Escapes expedition handles everything: private speedboat from Maputo, snorkelling equipment, a guided tour of Inhaca, Portuguese Island and Santa Maria Peninsula, plus fresh seafood lunch. No ferry schedules to coordinate, no gear to rent — just arrive and explore.
What to Do on Inhaca Island
- Snorkelling — Shallow reefs on the bay side teem with tropical fish, rays and occasional turtles. No certification needed — just mask, fins and a guide
- Beach time — The western (bay) beaches are calm and family-friendly; the eastern coast faces open ocean with bigger surf
- Seafood lunch — Village restaurants serve grilled lobster, prawns and fresh fish caught that morning
- Island exploration — Rent a 4×4 with a local guide to reach secluded beaches, the lighthouse viewpoint and mangrove ecosystems
- Birdwatching — Over 300 bird species recorded, including migratory waders and endemic coastal species
- Dolphin & whale watching — Bottlenose dolphins are common in the bay; humpback whales migrate past June–November
Best Time to Visit Inhaca
The dry season (May–October) offers the calmest seas, clearest snorkelling visibility and most reliable boat crossings. This aligns with peak safari season in Maputo National Park — making it easy to combine a bush morning with an island afternoon.
The wet season (November–April) brings warmer water but stronger winds and occasional rough seas that can delay or cancel ferry departures. Cyclone risk peaks December–February. If visiting in summer, build flexibility into your schedule and prefer private speedboats over the public ferry.
What to Pack for an Inhaca Day Trip
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a hat — shade is limited on beaches
- Swimwear and a light cover-up
- Snorkel mask (or confirm your operator provides gear)
- Cash in Mozambican metical for village purchases and tips
- Water bottle and snacks for the boat crossing
- Waterproof bag for phone and valuables
- Light rain jacket if visiting November–March
- Motion sickness tablets if prone to seasickness on the ferry
Combining Inhaca with a Longer Mozambique Trip
Inhaca works beautifully as a single day from Maputo, but also pairs with longer itineraries:
- Day 1: Inhaca Island (Coastal Escapes)
- Day 2–3: Maputo National Park safari
- Day 4+: Drive north to Tofo for diving (Tofo diving guide) or fly to Vilanculos for the Bazaruto Archipelago
For multi-day coastal and marine expeditions, see our 16-Day Signature Tour or 14-Day Dive Safari.
Practical Tips
- There are no ATMs on Inhaca — bring sufficient cash from Maputo
- Mobile signal is limited outside the village
- Respect the marine reserve — do not touch coral or remove shells
- Overnight stays are possible at lodges such as Fernando Nhaca Lodge, but most visitors come for the day
- Confirm return boat times — missing the last ferry means an unplanned overnight
Ready for Inhaca? Book the Coastal Escapes day trip, combine it with a Maputo National Park safari, or contact us to design a bush-and-beach itinerary.
