Whale Watching in Ponta Malongane, Mozambique
Witness the Majestic Humpback Migration Along Southern Mozambique’s Shores
The Ocean’s Giants Return
Every year from July to November, the warm turquoise waters of Southern Mozambique become a sanctuary for one of nature’s most breathtaking events – the annual Humpback Whale migration.
These gentle giants journey over eight thousand kilometres from Antarctica to calve and nurture their young in the protected shallows of the Maputo National Park then Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve (PPMR) now a UNESCA World Heritage site. Here, just offshore from Ponta Malongane, visitors can witness breaching whales, playful tail slaps, and the tender bond between mothers and calves – all while surrounded by the wild beauty of the Indian Ocean.
Why This Experience Matters
Whale watching in Mozambique is not just a spectacle – it’s an invitation to reconnect with the rhythm of the natural world.
Halo Gaia operates under strict eco-tourism and Marine Mammal Operator guidelines, ensuring all encounters are conscious, respectful, and non-intrusive.
Each permitted vessel maintains the required 300-metre distance, allowing whales to move freely while guests observe from a peaceful, privileged vantage point.
Whether you witness a breach, a fin wave, or hear the haunting songs echoing through the deep, each moment leaves you profoundly aware of how vast and alive our ocean truly is.
Guided by Experience and Respect
Led by Courtney Ward, co-founder of Halo Gaia, and a team of local marine specialists, every whale watching excursion is guided by decades of conservation commitment and marine awareness.
Operating in collaboration with Complexo TurÃstico do Malongane and under Mozambique’s official marine permit system, Halo Gaia upholds the One-Boat Policy, ensuring minimal impact and a calm, authentic experience for both guests and whales.
Learn more about the whales of this region through Dolphin Encountours Research Center, Halo Gaia’s conservation partner dedicated to responsible marine education and field research.
What You’ll Experience
Witness the Humpback Migration
From July to November, experience the breathtaking journey of Humpback Whales as they breach, tail-slap, and nurture their calves in the warm waters off Ponta Malongane. A rare and unforgettable view of nature’s wild grace in Mozambique’s Marine Reserve.
Guided Ocean Launches
Join expert marine guides for small-group whale-watching tours in the Maputo National Park – Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve. Safe, fully briefed, and respectful of wildlife, these ocean launches let you witness the giants of the sea up close — on nature’s terms.
The Songs and Stories of the Sea
Discover the migratory paths and haunting songs of Mozambique’s whales. Learn how conservation and eco-tourism protect these incredible mammals while deepening your connection to the ocean’s rhythm and power.
More Than Whales
Beyond whales, you may encounter dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles during your launch. Each sighting celebrates the diversity and wonder of Mozambique’s coastline — a living reminder of how vibrant and vital these protected waters are.
Rewilding at Its Best
"The Women’s Rewilding Retreat was exactly that — grounding, sound journeys, dancing by fire, and divine food. I’d do it again in a...A Simple Must-Do
"The facilitation was gentle and spot-on. Yoga, sound journeys, and nourishing food — perfectly balanced with rest and wild swimming. I’ll do it again...A Divine Experience
"Gorgeous landscapes, soulful seascapes, and deep reverence for the ocean’s creatures — this journey is divine. The guides are heartful and wise, sharing soul...Spiritual and Life-Changing
"Embarking on the dolphin swim with Halo Gaia is an extraordinary experience that connects you intimately with nature’s most majestic creatures. Interactions are respectful and non-intrusive,...A Rare Combination
"The setting, the people, and the friendliness — such a rare combination! I’ve been three times this year, and it’s become my yearly must-do because...Magical and Conscious Connection
"Every once in a while, we experience something that impacts deeply and unforgettably. Swimming with wild dolphins in Malongane was one such magical event....Dream Turned Reality
"Courtney and her team made my long-standing dream come true and turned it into one of the best weeks of my life. The dolphins adore her —...Exquisite Time with Dolphins
"I cannot recommend this highly enough — breathwork, meditation, sound and music, and of course exquisite time on the sea with the dolphins."So Beyond Words
"An experience many dream of — swimming freely with dolphins and being guided by our Dolphin Mermaid, Courtney. We are so blessed to have this divine...An Experience That Moved Me!
Soul-Smiling Experience
"If you’re looking for a life-changing experience in paradise, give yourself permission to swim with the dolphins! It’s the kind of moment that will make your soul smile...Healing Through Grace
"This retreat opened massive space for healing through unconditional love and support. Every second held such power — it became an eternal flame within me."How It Works
Book Your Whale Watching Experience
Select your preferred date between July and November, or combine it with your Ponta Malongane stay.
Join Our Guided Launch
Receive a full safety briefing and marine orientation before heading out on the water.
Witness the Migration
Watch in awe as Humpback Whales breach, glide, and nurture their young in Mozambique’s protected marine haven.
Our Eco Promise
- One-boat policy for minimal disturbance
- No chasing or feeding wildlife
- Observation-only practice within regulated distance
- Partnership with Maputo National Park and local research bodies
This ensures each experience remains an authentic, ethical exchange – honouring both the whales and their marine home.
Why Ponta Malongane
Situated within the Maputo National Park and adjacent to South Africa’s iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Ponta Malongane is part of a UNESCO World Heritage coastal corridor – one of the most biologically diverse marine ecosystems in Africa.Our sole launch rights in this beautiful bay mean you will never experience a crowded whale viewing experience.
Here, the wild meets the sacred: elephants wander the dunes, dolphins play in the surf, and Humpback Whales serenade the shoreline – a living symphony of life and balance.
Add This Experience to Your Ponta Malongane Holiday
Whale watching excursions can be booked as a standalone ocean experience or as part of your Halo Gaia stay in Ponta Malongane. Whether you join for a single launch or plan your visit around peak migration, this once-in-a-lifetime encounter will leave an imprint long after you’ve returned home.
Meet Ponta Malongane’s Ocean Life
Southern Mozambique’s coastline is home to several resident and migratory dolphin species that thrive within the protected waters of the Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve (PPMR).
Whale Watching Questions
Witness the Wild Migration Up Close
Experience the awe of the Humpback Whales’ journey in Mozambique’s pristine marine sanctuary.
Respectful. Educational. Transformative.