Arrive Pemba – To Niassa National Reserve
Upon arrival in Pemba, you will be met for your scheduled light aircraft transfer to Niassa National Reserve and your lodge. Lugenda Wilderness Camp has 8 luxurious tented suites, each set atop a slightly raised deck with en suite bathrooms featuring bathtubs, showers and twin vanities. Set within more than 16,000-square miles of wilderness, the camp perches on the banks of the Lugenda River amongst the Ngalongue Mountains. Despite its remoteness, the food, wine and comforts of Lugenda are nothing short of indulgent. Lugenda Wilderness Camp – 3-nights (D)

Niassa National Reserve
Niassa is the size of Massachusetts — nearly double the size of the world-famous Kruger National Park, with a mere fraction of the visitors. It is home to almost 5 percent of the world’s endangered wild dog population, over 12,000 sable antelope, 16,000 elephant, over 400 bird species, and large numbers of zebra, leopard, buffalo, impala and wildebeest. There are also three endemic species — the Niassa wildebeest, Boehm’s zebra, and Johnston’s impala.

The days are yours to explore this incredible ecosystem. Enjoy game drives, walks and hikes — and be sure to try the guided night-frogging! The complete lack of light pollution makes stargazing ideal. And the remoteness of the park keeps it very quiet, resulting in an unparalleled level of exclusivity and privacy. (B, L, D)

To Quirimbas Archipelago
Fly via Pemba into the Quirimbas Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of 31 islands that run for nearly 200 miles off the coast of Mozambique. The southernmost islands are part of the Quirimbas National Park, making up some of the world’s most protected waters for diving, snorkeling and catch-and-release fishing. Once a stop along Arab trading routes before becoming a part of the Portuguese colony, the islands are steeped in history — and are still home to a fascinating and vibrant mix of cultures.

From the airstrip, take a boat to Quilalea Island, where the new Azura at Quilalea has just opened its nine seafront villas. Azura is an eco-chic private island getaway, offering fine food, an African spa, island walks, sea kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, traditional dhow cruises and much more. Azura at Quilalea – 4-nights (B, L, D)

Quirimbas Archipelago
Enjoy a wide variety of water- and land-based activities on Quilalea Island. Travel to nearby Sencar Island, where you can kayak through a mangrove forest. Or tour a working coconut plantation and village on Quirimba Island. Do some snorkeling or diving — there are spectacular vertical drops of up to 400 meters just offshore — or try your luck fishing. In the mood for a little relaxation? Kick back on the white-sand beaches kissed by the warm, turquoise-hued ocean. (B, L, D)

Ibo Island, Quirimbas Archipelago
Make the short trip from your island resort at Quilalea to Ibo Island to explore some of Mozambique’s history. Make your own jewelry with the local silversmiths and experience a city frozen in time. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ibo Island is a true cultural melting pot — a place where European, Arabian, and Indian influences have combined with Swahili traditions to create a unique culture and architectural practices. And this little island isn’t short on natural beauty, either. From its mountainous interior to the mangrove forests and pristine beaches on the coast, unforgettable vistas await you at every turn. This afternoon, return to your resort for a last evening under the stars. (B, L, D)

To Quirimbas Archipelago
Return to Pemba by light aircraft today for the departure of your onward flight. (B)