S.A. Weather
June 8th, 2009
Tofo – Mozambique
About 17 km east of Inhambane is where Bar Babalaza marks the crossroads to Tofo and Barra. Tofo is a small (about 40 houses) beach town, with a hotel and other accomodation, a lovely open beach, nice reefs for fishing and snorkling, spazas, beach bars and dive schools, where you can slow down your pace of life, do nothing, relax and just leave your footprints. Tofo has been popular with Zimbabweans and South Africans since before the war and Tofo has now also become a firm favourite on the international backpacking trail and offers a variety of accommodation and places to eat and drink. Tofino, less than a kilometre south, is situated on a more exposed and rocky headland and the waves at Tofino are known for very good surfing.
The headland is also a favourite spot for fishermen when a high tide covers the shelf, allowing casting for the plentiful kingfish into the deep waters beyond. Tofino is also the site of the Frelimo Monument to Fallen Heroes, near to where unfortunate victims of the colonial period were thrown into a sea cave, to be drowned by the rising tide. A spectacular blow hole near the tip of the point can give a raw display of power, when there is a large swell running.
The warm, clear waters and abundance of sea life that inhabit the coral reefs make this area a paradise for divers. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the best-developed activities and spear fishing is also catered for. Following Tofo, some of the better-known mainland spots are Paindane, Jangamo, and Barra, as well as Morrungulo and Pomene further north. The world famous Manta Reef is close by Tofo. This stretch of coastline offers the ultimate drive and dive experience. The turquoise waters hold a vast number of game and tropical fish species as well as a variety of beautiful corals and rare marine creatures including dugongs, whale sharks, and turtles.
