The extensive Quirimbas Archipelago consists of 27 offshore islands strung along the coast parallel to Pemba. The islands are composed of fossil coral rock and have lush vegetation and mangrove swamps. They support a wide variety of wading birds, turtles and terns. With only a handful of island lodges and resorts in the Quirimbas, this area remains one of the last undeveloped areas in Africa.

The establishment of the 7,500 km2 Quirimbas National Park in Mozambique's northern-most Cabo Delgado Province, close to the border with Tanzania, represents a globally significant conservation achievement.  

This new park is a conservation triumph boasting an exciting mosaic of wildlife, and helping protect one of the richest areas of coral reef in the world.

There is a rich array of coastal forests and mangroves, coral reefs and sea grass beds, as well as charismatic species such as dugongs, marine turtles, whales, dolphins and sharks, plus elephant, leopard, buffalo, lion and African hunting dog. The park also includes the St Lazarus Bank - a world-class diving spot, 42 nautical miles off the coast.