Mozambique Travel Guide

One of Africa’s rising stars, Mozambique is undergoing rapid rebuilding after a devastating recent past, and more and more travelers are discovering this gem of a country on Africa’s east coast. Visitors will be rewarded with stunning beaches and islands, a World Heritage site, attractive colonial architecture and vibrant local cultures.

The cuisine is primarily Portuguese with Far Eastern influences. Restaurants can be found in major towns as well as at hotels. International standard lodgings are mainly located in Maputo and Beira. In smaller towns, accommodation is generally of a lower standard. A number of four and five-star resorts and hotels are on offer in Maputo and at some of the beach destinations.

When to Go

Mozambique has two main seasons and the climate varies according to the region.
The wet season (November to March) has average temperatures of between 80°F and 85°F, while the interior uplands are cooler.
The dry season (April to October) sees temperatures averaging around 65°F.
The western hills and the central areas get the most rainfall, while the Zambezi lowlands are fairly dry.

Getting There & Away

Most travelers arrive in Maputo by air, often from nearby Johannesburg in South Africa]]. Buses from here also depart for Maputo. Mozambique is huge and domestic flights are the most convenient way to get around, though they are often delayed or cancelled. Buses run daily between major towns, usually offering both express and slower services. Limited rail services operate in the north of the country.

Health & Safety

Travel risks are similar to those in many other countries in Africa. In general, the Mozambican people are extremely warm and friendly, and neighboring countries often pose more hazards. Nonetheless, violent crime does occur, so the normal safety measures should be taken. Women are advised never to walk alone on beaches. Stick to bottled water, which is cheap and widely available. Malaria is prevalent in all parts of the country.

Itineraries

Three days relaxing in Maputo.
Three day’s on Pemba’s beaches.
A daytrip to Mozambique Island.

Additional time
A few days exploring Bazaruto Archipelago National Park.
A trip to Inhambane.

Highlights

Maputo: is one of Africa’s most beautiful capitals with broad avenues lined with jacaranda and flame trees, plenty of lovely sidewalk cafés and a laid-back atmosphere.

Pemba: on the coast boasts some fine grand buildings and a dynamic atmosphere. The beaches and coral reefs are the main attraction here.

Mozambique Island: is an intriguing place, sprinkled with 17th and 18th century colonial buildings and mosques. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bazaruto Archipelago National Park: consists of five main islands and is the closest you’ll get to a tropical paradise. Clear, turquoise waters; peaceful, white-sand beaches; colorful birds and great diving and snorkeling are the highlights.

Inhambane: is a sleepy historic town north of Maputo. It features some great colonial architecture and is regarded as one of the prettiest towns in Mozambique.

Activities

Swimming and diving: on the many beaches. Several resorts have good facilities and clear waters teeming with underwater sights for divers or snorkelers to discover. Zavora’s coral reef is terrific.

Fishing: is great here and catches include marlin, barracuda, sailfish and swordfish. Try sinking a line in Bazaruto Archipelago, Guinjata Bay and the deep waters of the Mozambique Channel.

Hiking and bird-watching: are excellent, but advice and extreme caution should be taken as a result of the huge number of landmines in the country.

Elephant safaris: in Maputo Elephant Reserve also feature leopards, antelope, crocodiles, side-striped jackals, hippos, duiker, zebra, kudu, baboons and bush pigs.