hosted by nature
Ibo, Mozambique
Experience the wilderness of the Quirimbas Archipelago
who we are
Casa das Garças is a conservation-orientated lodge, born from a joint initiative of Quirimbas National Park and the Italian Organization Istituto Oikos and funded by the Italian Cooperation.
We support practical initiatives to ensure the protection of the unique environment of the Quirimbas Archipelago in the north of Mozambique. Casa das Garças is not only a guesthouse but also a hub for environmental education and research: a place for travellers and researchers who wish to enjoy and protect biodiversity. We support collaboration between local and international universities, who use the lodge as a base to carry out important work in the archipelago.
Through eco-tourism and cultural exchange we aim to strive for a sincere, mutually beneficial engagement with the local community, working hand in hand with the people who call Ibo home.
ACCOMMODATION AND SERVICES
Casas das Garças offers the unique experience of a stay immersed in nature.
It accommodates up to 20 guests in three bungalows with en-suite bathrooms and two mini apartments with kitchen facilities.
Hot water and electricity are available throughout and wi-fi is available in common areas.
The bar area and the restaurant, under the traditional “makuti” leaf roof-top, offer a breath-taking sea view to enjoy the beautiful sunset.
We have 5 mountain bikes, 2 stand up paddle-boards and snorkelling gear available for adults and children to borrow.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Casa das Garças means Herons’ House. These beautiful birds are a constant presence, as the lodge is located within their typical habitat.
It is our greatest privilege, and ultimate goal, to allow our visiting guests from all over the world to enjoy the incredible wilderness and experience the local culture in a responsible manner, preserving the spectacular natural and human heritage of the Quirimbas.
- We respect the natural environment in which we live and work above all else.
- We promote educational and training opportunities for the community and the park staff.
- We invite guests to support sustainable and community based initiatives such as local family restaurants, traditional artisans, and local guides.
How we strive to reduce our carbon footprint:
light bulbs
Our light bulbs are energy efficient and our water heating systems are all powered by solar energy.rain water
We use a rain water collection system: 70% of our roof-tops have water collectors.recycling
We recycle as much waste as possible.friendly drinking
We encourage the use of recyclable beverage containers and of our environmentally friendly drinking water system.naturally ventilated
Rooms are naturally ventilated, thus air conditioning is avoided.ACTIVITIES ON IBO ISLAND AND THE QUIRIMBAS
Ibo Island is a unique place where history, nature and cultures blend together to offer an unforgettable travel experience. Its Portuguese past is evoked by several decadent buildings whose walls are often intertwined with stunning climbing trees and inhabited by troops of monkeys.
In recent years, thanks to the creation of the Quirimbas National Park and growing touristic attention, Ibo is awakening from its past, with conservation and restoration projects invigorating the local economy.
- Wander around Ibo Island town and get lost in the old Bairro Cimento, where you’ll discover a mix of African cultures and taste delicious seafood dishes.
- If you are a sea lover, you can’t miss the snorkelling, the thrill of a shipwreck emerging from the water at low tide, or a dolphin and whale-watching trip.
- You can relax on the golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters of a sand bank, visit Matemo Island, or even embark on a spectacular three-hour hike through the mangroves to Quirimbas Island.
BUILDING CASA DAS GARÇAS
The lodge combines an innovative design with the use of local natural building materials and techniques.
Its construction has seen the involvement of craftsmen from the area who have strengthened their skills and abilities through a continuous process of learning by doing.
Casa das Garças has been designed by Architetti Senza Frontiere – Italia
HOW TO GET HERE
You can reach Casa das Garças by plane from Pemba or by road with a private transfer. Click here for more details!