When you imagine tropical paradise, what do you think of? I see crystal clear water, sharing playful waves with dolphins, friendly locals, fresh organic food, and breathtaking sunsets. This is Mozambique. Admittedly the drive to get there was tough, sitting in a stuffy car for about two days made me want to be home in my own bed, but after an hour in Mozam the drive was already worth it.
The only downfall of surfing in Mozambique is the fact that wherever I go next will probably feel crowded and cold in comparison. Our group would pack up the boards on the roof of the 4×4 and cruise down to check out the waves, which were usually fun and only had two or three locals already riding them. I had by far the best surf of my life at Tofinho Point. Starting with the rock jump to give you a little adrenaline for your surf. We would walk out to the end of the point break where the top of the wave started, and with some good luck and timing, you would find yourself sitting in the perfect spot to catch what often felt like the wave of your day/ life? After riding this wave to the beach, you would run around to the rock jump to do the whole thing all over again, saving yourself the usual strenuous paddle out. And when you were lucky, the dolphins would come to show off their ways of enjoying the waves.
The locals were another aspect that made this destination feel like paradise. Their genuine happiness and simple way of life gave me a new perspective on what fulfillment can look like. We spent a few days longboarding with some local ladies who run a surf school in Tofo and they were some of the most positive and energetic people I have ever met. After catching waves with the girls for a while, we would lay in the sun and enjoy some fresh squeezed juice and homemade Nutella and banana crepes.
Before ever trying surfing, most people often imagine it Blue Crush style, paddling out with dry hair and catching amazing waves with little effort, Pomene was the closest that ever came to being a reality.
Pomene was the last stop we had in Mozambique, and it was the perfect way to wrap up the trip. Pomene is one of those hidden gems that you would never find without some local knowledge and a 4×4. Completely off the beaten track we found ourselves in little huts right on the beach. From the most stunning swimming pool over looking the ocean, we had the pleasure to watch the most incredible sunset while flamingos flew over the horizon.
One of the most special parts of this trip is getting to appreciate all of these places and moments with the amazing people you have bonded with over the the course of the trip. I can say with certainty that I have grown as a person by appreciating the beauty and lifestyle of Mozambique, and made some lifelong friends who I am looking forward to planning more surf trips with in the future.
Thanks ticket to ride for the most incredible trip!
Sally Stanier