Mozambique
Known for its coastal beauty, rich sea life and vibrant culture, Mozambique has become a must-visit for vacationers and surfers alike. Colonised by the Portuguese in the early 16th century, the country reflects an amalgamation of African and European influences. Nothing showcases this more than the local cuisine. The Portuguese combined the birds eye chilli pepper, readily available in Mozambique, with traditional Portuguese flavours to create the now iconic Peri Peri sauce, which they use to baste most of their dishes. Famous for their seafood and peri peri chicken, Mozambican’s combine chilli, garlic, lemon and butter to create dishes bursting with flavour. Beyond the food, the people, known for their friendly disposition, give no indication of the country’s war-stricken past. While the coastline, with its warm, blue waters, and lush natural vegetation offers a unique opportunity to experience Africa’s natural beauty. Oh and the waves, we almost forgot about those. Think still, windless mornings. Think board-shorts, dolphins and warm water. Think sand-bottomed, barreling point breaks and empty A-frames. And think, very few, if any people around to disrupt this blissful experience.
Where You’ll Stay
Located in Ponta Malongane, our luxury surf villa offers exclusivity along with a unique surfing experience. The house, fitted with a rimflow pool, exquisite sea views and ensuite bathrooms is sure to leave you feeling relaxed, while the idyllic surf works to satiate your hunger for cooking waves, warm water and magnificent backdrops.
The Waves
Private Beach Break
Directly in front of the house lies one of the lesser known spots in the area — a peaky, picturesque beach break that loves light winds and a mid-sized swell. Best from the months of April - August, this wave is brought to life by the early-morning offshore winds that blow into the wave-face creating perfect A-frame barrels. Low tide, and well developed sand banks work to accentuate the tube while a jumbled swell ensures more peaky conditions. With a long stretch of beach, and restricted access, you’re sure to find a peak all to yourself (Ps. In three years, we’ve only once seen another surfers in the water)
Ponta Do Ouro Point
One of the more famous waves in Mozambique, Ponta, is a long, sand-bottomed point break situated just north of the South African border. Gaining International exposure soon after the end of the Mozambican civil war in 1992, the enticing right-hander has become a staple for adventurous South African surfers. The wave is broken up into two sections; First point and Second point. First point is the more consistent, more user friendly section of the wave, breaking into a deep bay, offering up the odd barrel and numerous inviting sections. Second point, situated above first point, and breaking in front of a volcanic rock shelf, is a fickle, intense wave. On the rare occasion when sufficient sand build up occurs, this section of the wave transforms into a freight-training barrel, delivering fast, incredibly hollow tubes. On its day, first and second point connect, offering up the ride of a lifetime. Ponta itself is a fickle beast, not having a preferred season but rather, offering glimpses of its glory throughout the year. Having said that, Ponta works best on an Easterly swell with light winds. In addition, due to its sand-bottomed nature, the wave prefers lower tides and works best around spring lows.
