Vilanculos

The growing, coastal town of Vilanculos (now Vilankulo) is located in the Vilanculos District of Mozambique's Imhambane province, a third of the way up the country's 2600km coastline. In addition to being a gateway to the five islands which form the Bazaruto Archipelago, Vilanculos is a place of charming people, colourful markets and vibrant cafés and bars.

Exotic, sun-baked beaches stretch on forever, the pristine landscape a superb horse-riding destination's "swimming" the horses is a memorable experience for riders of all levels. Turquoise oceans mirror heated azure skies and flow over a rugged shoreline. A gentle, eco-canoe trail through crystal waters and water lilies invites an appreciation of the aquatic animals and bird life which animate the region. Inland leads through coconut plantations and typical rural fishing villages, where signs of development are starting to make themselves visible.

Mozambique is a sun destination, with a colourful history and a laid-back beach holiday vibe. Explored by da Gama from 1498, and colonised by the Portuguese thereafter, its heritage includes Arab slavers, a productive trade in gold, ivory and commodities and a devastating civil war before it became a democracy and a member of the commonwealth. The capital city is Maputo.

With charming Mozambican authenticity, friendly people, colourful markets, cafés and bars, a host of activities and a choice of accommodation types Vilanculos has a lot to offer. Its ideally suited to those who are seeking fun and an element of adventure.