Ever since we overlanded around Mozambique in 2016 we’ve been dying to return. We are frequently asked where our favorite place to travel is, and our answer is always Mozambique.
So when we found ourselves back in Southern Africa we knew we had to make a special trip to the country, even if just for a few days.
The southern coast of Mozambique is something like out of a dream. Blue water, white sand beaches, and absolutely no one around is what coastal Mozambique is all about.
When we heard about White Pearl Resort, easily one of the most romantic resorts in Africa we knew we had to check it out for ourselves.
Checking into the White Pearl Resort
Most visitors to Mozambique and White Pearl Resort will be entering the country at Maputo International Airport (MPM). Maputo Airport is a 1.5-2 hour drive away from White Pearl Resort. The last 30 minutes are so is only accessible by four-wheel drive as you must travel through thick sand.
White Pearl is located right on the Mozambican coast. On a map, it would be near Ponta Mamoli, near Lake Mamoli. Essentially there is absolutely nothing around the White Pearl beside a few small and local villages.
The remoteness of White Pearl creates a private and exclusive experience where you won’t run into many other people besides the resort staff and other guests at the hotel.
There is no doubt that the first time you step onto the property you will be in complete shock. The resort is poised along the sand dunes on timber stilts with round-the-clock views of the ocean. It truly is one of the most beautiful locations in the world. If you’re looking for a good honeymoon location, this is it.
Around White Pearl Resort
White Pearl has 22 suites, a bar, poolside bars, a restaurant, two infinity pools, and many other areas to explore. All buildings are painted white and blend naturally into the setting. The structures are on stilts protecting the precious ecosystem around them.
From the rooms to the common area the look of the resort is beach modern, and cool, with contemporary coastal design. It’s exactly what I would expect to find on the cover of a luxury beach magazine.
Inside the Rooms at White Pearl Resort
Each room at White Pearl is a pool suite. That means that at any time of the day you can cool off in your own private plunge pool and relax afterward in the privacy and comfort of your own room. Afterward, it’s best to get clean in the beautiful outdoor shower.
Inside the room, you’ll find air conditioning (which can be a rarity in Mozambique), a luxurious bathtub, a comfortable bed, a living room area with a tea and coffee station, and reasonably fast WiFi.
We loved being able to relax in the privacy of our room when we wanted since the room had it all. Then when it was time for the beach that was only a couple of steps away.
White Pearl Activities
The glory of White Pearl Resort is that you can venture here and have an adventurous time embarking on a new excursion every day. Or it’s the perfect place to travel to and relax while doing nothing with your sweetie.
If you are in the mood to do nothing there are plenty of comfortable places to relax and read a book with a cocktail in hand and the ocean just steps away.
However if you came for some experiences you can get just that. The coast of Mozambique is a world renowned area for diving. The area is rich in sea life and is very close to a dive site called Pinnacles. Pinnacles is for advanced divers only, but is where you can often see sharks and big megafauna.
If you don’t fancy going that far underwater then White Pearl is also a great spot for snorkeling. Bottlenose dolphins, whale sharks, and plenty of beautiful fish and coral are often seen here.
For those of you that would rather stay dry a safari in Maputo Special Reserve is a good option. Elephants have been reintroduced back into this reserve so there is a good chance of spotting them. It’s also teeming with birdlife, giraffe, and various other safari animals.
Other fun family friendly activities are a Lake Mamoli Guided Exploration Walk, Turtle Nesting experience (seasonal), or having a romantic beach picnic!
The Staff
The staff at White Pearl are one of kind. Most, if not all, the staff members are local Mozambicans with a lively amount of energy.
We loved interacting with the staff, especially our butler, YES BUTLER. Every suite has their own private butler to help you out with whatever you may need. Whether that’s coffee in your room, breakfast by the pool, or just to serve you dinner at night in the dining room. Your butler is your main connection with the staff and is there to make your stay as wonderful as possible. I loved having this personal service from the butlers and managers!
Plan Your Trip To Mozambique
We’ve made several trips to Mozambique now and have spent weeks in the country. While we’re not experts, we do know a thing or two when it comes to expectations and the reality of what it’s like to travel in the country. By the way, it just so happens to be one of the favorite countries to visit in the world.
Check Out Some Other Lodges In Mozambique
Anvil Bay
Anvil Bay is a collection of casinhas, or little huts, nestled within the coastal forests of Mozambique. It is a secluded beach camp located along the Southern Mozambique coastline in the protected wilderness region of the Maputo Special Reserve.
Which is home to a collection of Africa’s last coastal elephants and various other wildlife as they are reintroduced to the reserve? The camp was built with the smallest footprint possible on the environment and is quite literally a camp.
Travessia Beach Lodge
However, it adds to the exoticism, romance, and beauty of the destination, Travessia Beach Lodge. It was late in the day by the time we had arrived after snaking through the sandy roads to the main lodge. We were greeted by the amazing staff here who brave the Mozambican bush to maintain the remote beach destination.
Book A Safari in Mozambique
Traditionally if you wanted to book a safari you’d have to go to a travel agent and have them book your safari for you. They made suggestions for camps and lodges and then presented you with a large bill. Most of the industry still operates in this fashion.
Timbuktu is a new platform that allows you to select the lodges you’d like and see the pricing per day that way you can select the best itinerary for yourself. They will then contact the lodges and help you by booking your safari. With experts on staff, they can also provide suggestions and arrange the little details much like a travel agent.
Another great option is Safari Bookings. Safari Bookings offer safaris all around Africa in every price range!
Plan Your Trip to Africa
- Travel Insurance: We don’t travel without travel insurance and neither should you. You never know what can happen while traveling so it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo provides excellent short-term and long-term travel insurance plans.
- Travel Waterbottle: When we’re uncertain about the water supply we use our Grayl Purifier. It’s come in exceptionally handy around Africa.
- Camera Gear: Chances are you’ll want a camera for your trip to Africa. We love the Sony RX100V for a pocket-size camera and the Fujifilm XT-4 for a professional camera. Check out our favorite cameras for Africa.
- Safari Clothes: Lightweight, beige, and moisture-wicking clothing are great for traveling Africa. See our favorite safari clothing here.
- Safari Hat: A good hat is both stylish and functional.
- Safari Bag: A durable bag is ideal for traveling around Africa.
- Safari Pants: We recommend neutral-colored pants as they’re great at hiding dirt and can match most shirt colors.
- Safari Shirt: Shirts like these are lightweight and keep the bugs away!
- Boots: While you don’t need to wear sturdy shoes every day, at least one pair of safari boots will make your trip nicer!
- Travel Adapter: You’ll need a special travel adapter for traveling Africa. Get one before you get there so you don’t pay a premium on the ground.
This is so beautiful. nestled just within the shoreline and offers all that is needed for a perfect romantic holiday.