North of Pemba, the enigmatic Quirimbas Archipelago offers a surprising mix of history, culture, and unparalleled natural beauty. Dotted along the coastline are 32 idyllic islands, home to a range of marine life such as turtles, dugongs, whales and dolphins, and a thriving coral reef, providing a burst of colour under the turquoise waters. The islands, however, are as much about history as they are about natural beauty, as its distinctive architectural heritage is an eclectic blend of Portuguese, Swahili, Indian and African cultures.