Mozambique

Have you been? Trying to dial in some beta (beyond what is readily googlable) before visiting this Summer. 

Was there on a "climbing" trip in July 2001 with the help of a handful of South Africans. The experience was amazing but the inselbergs we attempted were a bit disappointing - they looked amazing from a distance 

but on closer inspection were blank or kinda veggie.

There are a few long established routes which may be worth checking out -  track down South Affrican Alard Huffner who will have the best info (I haven't been in touch with him for decades so doubt my contact info is still any good). He developed most of the climbing with Mark Seuring including some stuff nearer the coast. Happy to share more beta (what I can remember.....)

Hey Andy good to hear from you. I have y'alls 2001 AAJ report in my collection already, but it doesn't include these photos. I have the first one from Mark's website with the topo lines, but the second one is new to me so I'm stoked to add it! I figured that both Alard and Mark have shared everything they know online already, but now that you mention it I think that's likely a foolish assumption and will reach out to both. I'd love any contact info you may have.

I saw in your trip report y'all had quite the adventure trying to get around and get permission to climb things. Did the Mlema mountains appear as vegetated up close as the Sitting Chief/Murupie? Honestly, I'm not too too worried about veg. Our team is mostly interested in big adventurous first ascents and, in my experience, choss and veg generally adds to that lol. 

Why not travel just a bit further out in a heaps better rock and nicer area?

Tsaranoro Massif (Madagascar)

https://www.thecrag.com/en/climbing/madagascar/area/944828925

giraud b wrote:

Why not travel just a bit further out in a heaps better rock and nicer area?

Tsaranoro Massif (Madagascar)

https://www.thecrag.com/en/climbing/madagascar/area/944828925

Porque no los dos?

Sure, why not. But I personally I would look into Madagascar as the main destination. I heard lots of positive reports about climbing in that area from people I know. 

Adventure factor seems significantly higher in Mozambique. Plus, it's possible we spend just as much time in Madagascar.