Inhaca Island

Situated almost 25 miles (40km) off the coast of Maputo, Inhaca Island is a popular destination boasting beautiful beaches, some of the Mozambique Channel's best coral reefs, a historic lighthouse, marine biology museum and large areas of protected forest. Easily accessible from the capital, it is a favourite with snorkellers and divers who usually head for the reefs at Santa Maria and off the lighthouse, or the surrounding sunken wrecks. The Santa Maria reef has a strong drift current that runs parallel to the shore and is fantastic for snorkelling, while the Wall is a rocky ledge that drops 66ft (20m) to the bottom and harbours numerous caves and ledges filled with a variety of marine life. Game fishing is also popular. Portuguese Island is a deserted island just northwest of Inhaca across a narrow strait, which also has magnificent beaches and a lagoon.

Transport: The island is easily accessible from Maputo by a daily ferry service, or a 10-minute flight