The 10 Best Things to Do in Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique

December 19, 2017 Hana Mouser

Ponta do Ouro is a town in the extreme south of Mozambique, lying on the Mozambique Channel south of Maputo and just north of the border with South Africa. It is known for its beach, for its dolphins and for its offshore diving and deep-sea fishing.
Restaurants in Ponta do Ouro

1. Back To Basics Adventures

Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Excellent
90%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 130 reviews

Back To Basics Adventures

Back to Basics Adventures is a boutique dive centre located in central Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique. We found that the essence of our operation is the people. The people that own it, the people that work here, and most importantly the people that visit us, because Back to Basics Adventures realises that it is the people that make the dive a memorable experience, not the amount of dives you can fit into a day. It is a community, not a business, where each customer is known by their name and listened to. We got over 50 different reefs to choose from, with both excellent macro and wide angle opportunities. Ponta do Ouro is internationally known for our resident bull sharks and extremely good macro sites. Since our own passion is the ocean we specialising in underwater photography and smaller groups/families wanting to experience the ocean together. Our goal is to give our clients an experience they can bring with them and share with others. Since 2017 we are offering various naturalist course and interesting marine talks with known wildlife authors. The Ocean Matters and we believe in Education through Passion. / Jenny and Rupert

Reviewed By DivineNicky - Pretoria, South Africa

We visited Ponta to do our Scuba open water one course and first dives with Backtobasics. It was my 16 yr old sons first dive planned as a birthday gift, with me and my daughter joining the dives. Overall it was a very enjoyable trip.The whole team was very experienced and involved with Jenny and Kristel going the extra mile to make it a trip to remember. Predive informarion sessions were very interesting and definitely added value as we got a overview of the divesite 's interesting features and creatures. Jenny is a knowledgeable and passionate photographer which also made for beautiful photos memories.
Thank you Backtobasics for catering to all levels of experience ,we can not wait for our next trip.

2. Dolphin Encountours Research Center

Village Square | Dolphin House, Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Excellent
87%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
3%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 88 reviews

Dolphin Encountours Research Center

Welcome to our world, a world filled with dolphins, whales and an underwater kingdom just waiting to be explored. We invite you to take the plunge, face your fears and experience something truly magical when coming face to face with the Dolphins of Ponta, were we experience the true essence of being wild and free!Operating within the Ponta Partial Marine Reserve, Dolphin offers boat based marine activities that includes volunteer programs, in-water encountours over multiple launches, holistic dolphin retreats and day visiter options.Our focuses is on observing dolphins in the wild whilst following the DolphinCare code of conduct allowing for dolphin friendly, non-intrusive viewing on the dolphins terms. Whales are seen regularly during season (jun to nov) whilst opportunistic sightings are had of other special species that include whale sharks, mantas and turtles (season and conditions dependent). Our programs have been created to ensure that a nurturing rather than needy approach is followed. No feeding, forcing or coaxing, just you and our dolfriends face to face in the big blue. An experience that often leaves us wondering ‘who is actually watching who’! The stuff dolphin dreams are made of! Senior crew on on-board consist of our dolphin surf skipper, a marine biologist and original founder Angie Gullan who has for almost 20 years been exploring the realms of conscious interaction between dolphin and human while dedicating her life to monitoring and befriending the population of wild indo-pacific bottlenose’s she met in the December of 94.Options are structured and are used as a data collection and educational platform that offer a special insight into the life of the wild dolphin through a program that resonates with sustainable and ethical marine mammal tourism whereby participants are actively contributing.Ponta do Ouro is situated on the southern most point of Mozambique and is easily accessible from the Kosi Bay Border  or Maputo.

Reviewed By Peter F - Johannesburg, South Africa

The trip to swim was dolphins was well organised and the pre-trip lecture was informative. We unfortunately did not get to see the dolphins, but were able to snorkel briefly in the ocean. Worth a trip if you are in the area. My 6 year old son was happy to be part of the trip and snorkel.

3. Gozo Azul

Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Excellent
85%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 56 reviews

Gozo Azul

Gozo Azul is an enthusiastic, friendly and owner run adventure charter based in Ponta Do Ouro, southern Mozambique, with more than 16 years experience in this area. Gozo Azul Scuba over a variety of PADI diving courses - view our course section for more information. We also offer a variety of comfortable accommodation options and daily charters including deep sea fishing charter, spear fishing,

Reviewed By Andrew F - Watford, United Kingdom

dived with gozo azul for a week and wasn't disappointed freindly well run with some excellent dive sites on there doorstep staff were excellent and fun to be with especially lorrayne, even layed on a bbq at her own expense and cooked to perfection by dee

4. The Whaler

Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Excellent
53%
Good
42%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 19 reviews

The Whaler

Reviewed By Michael M - Prague, Czech Republic

We came for just four days - my partner to take her OWD course and me to have a few dives. No big expectations. But what a stay! Underwater life so rich. Professional team, professional equipment. And in addition, we felt much at home, not like paying clients, rather like old-time friends. We willl be 100% back asap :-)

5. Beach Bar

Matutuine, Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Excellent
21%
Good
51%
Satisfactory
19%
Poor
7%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 42 reviews

Beach Bar

Reviewed By DaneSalmon - Kloof, South Africa

Pinto's beach bar is a must visit when in Ponta. In the evenings, the loud music and bonfire is like a beacon to anyone in the area who that is drinking and the place fills up very quickly.

There is plenty glass on beach around the bar, so be very careful if you are barefoot.

6. The Dolphin Centre

Main Road, Principal No:1, Ponta do Ouro 1000, Mozambique
Excellent
54%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
2%
Terrible
11%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 35 reviews

The Dolphin Centre

Bem Vindo!Welcome to the incredible world of The Dolphin Centre here, a moment below the surface of the ocean will remain with you for a lifetime. We invite you to join us in observing and interacting with the amazing dolphins of Ponta.The Ponta pod is truly remarkable group of dolphins that chooses to engage in human interaction. We have an incredibly special bond with a group of wild dolphins some resident and others transient to the area, with whom we socialize and have formed some profound bonds and inter-relationships. We hope to share this magical experience with you as we dance with the dolphins of Ponta. At the Dolphin Centre we aim to deliver the best possible experience when swimming with wild dolphins in their natural environment. Our dolphin swim programme combines a comprehensive dolphin behavioural introduction and regulated Swim Code of Conduct, created to ensure a sustainable eco-friendly approach. You can be rest assured that the best interests of both marine life and you are being catered for during your excursion.Our dolphin excursions range between 2 and 2,5 hours, with a pre-launch briefing on boat safety, marine life and responsible interactions. The trip includes snorkeling over one of our shallow reefs, in-water swim facilitation with one of our dolphin guides, and seasonal whale shark and humpback whale sightings. Dolphin in-water observations are not guaranteed due to sightings and the nature of the dolphins, and we do suggest booking more than one launch to have the opportunity to interact with our finned friends.• Launches are run daily and subject to group size and sea conditions.• Group size is limited to a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12.• Booking in advance is essential • Snorkeling gear is included.Casual Dolphin Swim (1 dolphin excursion)• Adult: R350 / 1300 Mt per person • Under 12: R300/ 1150 Mt per child• Groups 10+: Less 10%• STO: Less 10%Dolphin Tour (3 dolphin excursions)• Adult: R1000 / 3675 Mt per person• Under 12: R850 / 3125 Mt per child• Groups 10+: Less 10%• STO: Less 10 Dolphin Retreats. We invite you to come dance with the dolphins for a life-changing experience that will stay with you forever. The Ponta pod is truly special group of dolphins that chooses to engage in human interaction. Book a 3 or 4 launch trip to get the full benefit of this amazing experience! This package is run over a few days and includes dolphin interactions, marine observations, educational lectures, pre-training snorkeling, accommodation (optional) and our finned friends gift pack. We also offer various packages catering for individuals, groups, holistic retreats, corporate functions and team building.• Pre-booking essential • Three early morning excursions, one of which being an extended launch time - covering a larger area & including refreshments.• Pre-launch briefing on ecology, boat safety, marine life and responsible interactions. • Comprehensive introduction to dolphin behaviour and our code of conduct.• In-water swim facilitation from one of our dolphin guides (if required).• Pre-training snorkeling introduction (if required)• Finned Friends Gift Pack.• Full use of snorkeling gear during your stay.Dolphin Retreat 3 launch package (4 days)• Adult: R1500 / 5250 Mt per person• Under 12: R1350 / 4725 Mt per child• Groups 10+: Less 10%• STO: Less 10%Dolphin Retreat 4 launch package (5 days)• Adult: R1780 / 6230 Mt per person• Under 12: R1600 / 5600 Mt per child• Groups 10+: Less 10%• STO: Less 10%Additional Excursions• R330 / 1215 Mt per person per excursionLOCATIONOur Dolphin Centre is located adjacent to Ponta do Ouro’s main campsite. The grey double storey building before the campsite boomgate. Here you are able to book your dolphin excursion and accommodation, or browse through our collection of informative marine life literature and visual material. Credit card facilities are available both visa and master card.BOOKING POLICY for both dolphin swims and retreats!All dolphin excursions are pre-booked in advance with full payment as confirmation. Please note last minute cancellations will not be refunded, as you are liable for the pre-booked amount of people. Our Dolphin Retreat group size is a minimum of four. Make sure when making a booking that you allow for unfavourable sea conditions and give yourself an extra morning for just in case. If however weather and sea conditions do not permit us to launch, we can either re-schedule, or if this is not possible, then Dolphin Centre Management will issue a refund. Due to the Rand Meticais exchange of the bank, prices on the credit cards can vary - please confirm before making payment. 10% commission is applicable to agents and tour operators.

Reviewed By Eluan J

I was fortunate enough to visit the area a second time. After my first dolphin experience, it was on the top of my bucket list. The staff are very helpful and friendly. Just when I thought my first encounter was the best my second experience...MoreWe are thrilled to receive awesome feedback such as yours! and are super stoked that you loved every second of it! Thanks for joining us! We hope to see you soon. Casey

7. Simply Scuba Dive Charters

242 Republic Road | Randpark Ext 4, Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Excellent
25%
Good
63%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 8 reviews

Simply Scuba Dive Charters

Reviewed By JohnCronje - south africa

I had the pleasure of doing 10 dives while visiting Ponta with Simply Scuba. Matt is very knowledgeable of the reefs, and we saw an abundance of fish, rays, eels, stonefish, paperfish and nudibranches. Turtles and dolfins were seen. The reef's are healthy, the visibility great and the water warm. Looking forward to my next visit as the approaching winter in South Africa makes its presence felt.

8. Blowing Bubbles Diving

Ponta do Ouro 0000, Mozambique
Excellent
72%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
14%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 7 reviews

Blowing Bubbles Diving

BLOWING BUBBLES DIVING & Accommodation a professional family owned and run Dive operation based in the beautiful Village of Ponta do Ouro Southern Mozambique. Our love of diving plus the personal friendly service and hands-on approach makes us different. The Dive centre has large kit-up areas, warm showers, full gear hire service, air fills on site and tea/coffee facilities. Offering casual diving, dive courses, Underwater specialities such as shark diving, photography and videography Offering both luxury tented and cabana accommodations with a catered / self catered option; the camp has something to suit everyone with its large garden like boma area with fire pit, braai area and sparkling splash pool. Both the Dive centre & camp can accommodate individual divers, dive groups and dive clubs who may want to book out the entire camp. Join the growing number of loyal divers both local and international who return time and again to enjoy the special attention they receive..

Reviewed By SA_Traveller_Budget_ - Cape Town Central, South Africa

I did a couple of dives with Blowing Bubbles as a walk-in during my stay in Ponto do Ouro.
Mike is a great owner/instructor who clearly loves his job. Equipment is well maintained, dive school is organised and the overall experience was very positive. It's easy to understand why all the other divers in the boat were repeat customers.
Next time I go to Ponta I'll also consider staying at Gala Gala (where Blowing Bubbles is located). It's close to a quiet, beautiful part of the beach, but also walking distance to town.

9. Devocean Diving

South Road | 12, Next to Police Station, Ponta do Ouro 2170, Mozambique
Excellent
34%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
33%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 6 reviews

Devocean Diving

DEVOCEAN Diving is the dream of two young people. Arne from The Netherlands and Lea from France, who met in Egypt, lived in South Africa and are busy building their future in Mozambique with the great help of an incredible staff and an awesome community. All in all a sure recipe for the ultimate diving experience. From beginner courses, continued ocean and reef explorers to full blown professional dive career tuition and coaching. You are cordially invited too!

Reviewed By PretoriaTravelfreak - Pretoria, South Africa

We stayed for a few nights and I would describe the accommodation as more of a backpacker type. The tents can get quite hot during mid day, especially if the tent is in the sun. Communal bathrooms were very basic.
The food was excellent and the chef really does a great job!
The diving was quite a disappointment as they had problems with permits and we didn't manage to do all the dives booked. We were however refunded for that.
Nice, quiet location but quite a walk from the beach.

10. Scuba Adventures - Day Trips

Ponta Beach Drive, Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique
Excellent
45%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
0%
Terrible
11%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 9 reviews

Scuba Adventures - Day Trips

Scuba Adventures is the largest Dive Charter & Scuba Training facility in Ponta do Ouro They have been operating there for over 23 years, and were the first PADI FIVE STAR facility registered in Mozambique Their dedicated boats offer daily trips for divers to explore the untouched, world class reefs close offshore Qualified Instructors, Dive Masters, and Skippers accompany all their trips Great emphasis is placed on safety, education, and marine conservation

Reviewed By Trouble1312 - Hillcrest, South Africa

We stayed at Scuba Adventures overnight and were more than disappointed. From the soiled sheets to the fact that your walls are made of thin straw, brown borehole water for shower and brushing your teeth to not even providing one with cutlery and dishes for the self catering it was a trip I do not like to do again. The DM did not even point out fishes and ignored to advise people how to behave on the boat while coming back. The safety vest are old and broken. The staff at the diving base are ignorant to one's questions and ignore the fact on how to wash diving gear.

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