Photo: SALTACE, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mozambique · Southern Africa · Diving

Tofo

A laid-back beach town famous for diving with manta rays and whale sharks.

Travel advice: some regions are off-limits. Check your government’s advice for the exact areas before you book.

Tofo is one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks and manta rays, plus humpback whales in season. It is a sandy, relaxed village with good seafood.

Highlights

  • Ocean safaris for whale sharks
  • Manta reef dives
  • Humpback whales (about June to October)
  • Surf at Tofinho

Wildlife to look for

Where to stay

Backpacker lodges, guesthouses and beach houses.

Getting there

Fly to Inhambane, about 30 minutes away.

Tips

  • Choose operators that follow responsible encounter guidelines.
  • Seas are rougher in winter.
  • Bring cash; ATMs can be unreliable.

Best time to visit

Apr to Nov. See where to go in Africa in April and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Travel advice: Parts of the country are off-limits under most government travel advice. Check your government’s advice before booking.

Plan your stay

Hotels on Booking.com Tours on GetYourGuide Tours on Viator

These searches open on the booking sites. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. Always check reviews and the operator’s licence.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Tofo?

Apr to Nov. Choose operators that follow responsible encounter guidelines.

How long should I spend at Tofo?

4 to 6 nights.

How do I get to Tofo?

Fly to Inhambane, about 30 minutes away.

Have you been to Tofo?

Rate it

Tips from travellers

Been to Tofo? Share one tip for the next traveller. The first good one goes right here.

Share a tip

We read every tip before it goes live. No links, please, and nothing personal about other people.

Questions from readers

Got a question about Tofo? Ask it here.

Ask a question

We can’t reply privately. Useful questions get answered here on the page.

Nearby and similar

Zanzibar

Spice island beaches and the winding alleys of UNESCO-listed Stone Town.

Jun to Oct, Dec to Feb 4 to 7 nights

Cape Town

Table Mountain, beaches, penguins, wine and food in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Oct to Apr 4 to 6 nights

Lake Malawi

A vast freshwater lake with clear water and colourful fish.

May to Nov 3 to 5 nights