Diving Maputo: Inhaca, Santa Maria & Portuguese Island

Three islands, one day: white-sand beaches, coral reefs and a traditional Mozambican lunch.

A full-day diving and snorkeling tour from Maputo visits Inhaca Island, Santa Maria and Portuguese Island with a live guide, traditional lunch, and snorkeling gear included. The itinerary splits the day across three stops: Santa Maria opens with beach time and a guided snorkeling session on coral reefs; Inhaka Island follows with lunch, free time and a walk through the local market; Portuguese Island closes with free time to dive, snorkel or swim in calm, clear water. A guide speaks English or Portuguese throughout and assists beginners in the water.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1: Explore Santa Maria Island

• Relax on white sand beaches
• Swim, dive, or rest under trees
• Walk along shore and trails
• Stop for photos and guide explanations
• Guided snorkeling session at coral reefs

Day 2: Visit Inhaca Island

• Enjoy traditional Mozambican lunch
• Relax and walk along the beach
• Stroll through villages and local market
• Buy crafts and interact with locals

Day 3: Discover Portuguese Island

• Walk along shore and explore nature
• Relax on the beach and sunbathe
• Dive and snorkel in clear waters
• Learn about island history and ecology

The experience

Ten hours on the water means three separate islands, each with its own rhythm. Santa Maria starts with free time on white-sand beaches and in clear water, then moves into a guided snorkeling session where you explore coral reefs and rock formations with a local guide watching for safety. The equipment (mask, snorkel and vest) is provided. Tropical fish, starfish, sea urchins and colorful corals are what you see below the surface.

Inhaca Island, a protected marine reserve, is where the day slows down. Lunch is traditional Mozambican seafood (fresh shrimp, fish or squid with rice and salad, vegetarian options available on request) prepared by locals. After eating, you walk the beach or rest, then take a leisurely stroll through island villages to visit the small community market and buy handmade crafts. The guide handles translation and stays with you the whole time.

Portuguese Island, uninhabited and with even clearer water, is the final stop. You get free time to dive, snorkel with your own gear, swim or simply walk the shore while the guide explains the island's history and ecological importance. Bottled water, snacks, soda and shade are provided throughout the day.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, vest).
• one traditional Mozambican meal with one beverage.
• bottled water and snacks.
• beach chairs and shade.
• tour guide in English or Portuguese.
• all fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (11 and older) · Child (4 to 10 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 100

Live guideEnglish and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Trip to Mozambique

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to visit three separate islands in one day rather than focus deeply on a single location, and you're comfortable swimming in open water.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Portuguese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 10 years); Infant (under 4): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the water like for snorkeling on these islands?

Portuguese Island has the clearest water and is uninhabited, while Santa Maria's coral reefs teem with tropical fish, starfish and sea urchins. Both are calm and suitable for beginners with a guide present.

Is lunch included, and what if I'm vegetarian?

Yes, one traditional Mozambican meal and one beverage per person are included on Inhaca Island. Vegetarian options are available if you request them in advance.

Do I need my own snorkeling gear or is it provided?

Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel and vest) is included for the guided session on Santa Maria. You can bring your own gear for Portuguese Island if you prefer.

How long is the boat ride, and what's the schedule?

The full tour runs ten hours and visits three islands in sequence: Santa Maria first for snorkeling, then Inhaca Island for lunch and the market walk, then Portuguese Island for free time in the water.