Pemba and Quirimbas questions

I just planning a potential trip to the north of Mozambique for this June and had a couple of questions I hope a few of you can answer:

Ulala Lodge - it gets some good TA reviews. Any TTers have experience of the place or can recommend it?

I don't mind paying a bit more for something if I think I am getting value for my money but comparing Cinco Portas on Ibo ($100/£63 per night for the room) with Ibo Island Lodge (£211 per person per night full board) what am I getting extra for my money, other than a pool, all meals and a better standard of accommodation? Can anyone who has stayed at both give me their view on the comparison.

From what I can see they are broadly in the same location, the same day trips are offered (pretty much). Am I better off staying at Cinco and then using the 'saved' cash to perhaps do a couple of nights on another island?

I wasn't planning on visiting Pemba town at any point - will I be missing much?

Thanks

Hi Thefurz,

Pemba is a nice town to explore... you can stay at Pemba Beach Hotel and Spa, the nicest hotel in Pemba :)
They have a fabulous Spa which is a nice treat before heading off to Ibo for a cultural experience! Their rates are around USD 330 per room per night, B&B, so not cheap, but a nice stop over.

I can't advise on Cinco Portas vs Ibo Island Lodge though.... I haven't stayed at either.

Regards,
Rani

Thefurz, before you believe that Pemba Beach Hotel is the "nicest hotel in Pemba" it's best to read the reviews rather than take the word of Rani Resorts (the owner of Pemba Beach Hotel)

The Ibo Island experience is completely different to the Pemba experience. Ibo is a fascinating cultural and historical island town, where you can soak up the “real Mozambique” and learn about the intriguing and sometimes dark history of this charming island. Pemba town is very large and sprawling. There is quite a bit to do there, from watersports, fishing and diving, to eating out at the many tiny restaurants, or soaking up some beach-bar atmosphere, to the little casino at Wimbe Beach.

Matemo Island is a beach destination, with blue water, soft sand and waving palm trees, so perhaps, if you have the time, spend a couple of days at each and experience the three different facets of this incredible country.