MOZAMBIQUE
Mozambique, a captivating nation on Africa’s southeastern coast, is a land of pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a unique blend of African, Arab, and Portuguese cultures. Its extensive Indian Ocean coastline and diverse landscapes, from savannahs to lush deltas, tell a story of ancient trade routes and resilient spirit.
Region: Southeastern Africa
Capital: Maputo
Official Language: Portuguese. Numerous local Bantu languages like Emakhuwa, Xichangana, and Cisena are also widely spoken.
Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to violent crime and civil unrest. Avoid non-essential travel to certain northern areas due to terrorism.
Why Visit Mozambique?
Pristine Beaches & Islands: Discover miles of untouched white sand and turquoise lagoons in stunning archipelagos.
World-Class Diving: Explore vibrant coral reefs and swim with majestic whale sharks and manta rays.
Authentic Safari Experience: Encounter diverse wildlife in less-crowded national parks like Gorongosa.
Rich Cultural Heritage: Immerse yourself in a fascinating blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences.
Escape Mass Tourism: Experience a genuine, unspoiled adventure away from typical tourist crowds.
Traditional Dhow Safaris: Sail the coast on traditional wooden dhows, exploring hidden coves and islands.
Essential Trip Information
Visa and Entry Requirements
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Mozambique. However, citizens of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries are generally exempt for stays up to 90 days.
Visas can be obtained in advance from a Mozambican embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Apply here: https://www.evisa.gov.mz
Some nationalities may be eligible for a visa on arrival at major entry points, but it’s highly recommended to obtain a visa beforehand to avoid potential issues.
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and have several blank pages.
Proof of onward travel (return ticket) and sufficient funds may be requested by immigration officials.
Currency
Mozambique uses the Mozambican Metical (MZN). However, US$ is widely accepted in tourist areas.
Best Ways to Handle Currency
Before Your Trip: Bring some US$; meticals are hard to get abroad.
During Your Trip: Use ATMs in major cities (e.g., Maputo, Vilanculos).
Credit/Debit cards: Accepted in large hotels and restaurants; cash is essential for markets or transport.
Avoid: Exchanging money on the street and paying in foreign currencies outside tourist zones (may cause overcharges).
Language
Portuguese is the official language. In rural areas, local languages dominate.
Helpful phrases: “Bom dia” (Good morning), “Obrigado/a” (Thank you), “Onde fica…?” (Where is…?)
Safety & Security
Mozambique is generally safe, especially in tourist hubs like Tofo, Vilanculos, and the islands.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in Maputo and remote beaches.
Pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets.
Emergency number: 117 (Police), 118 (Fire), 119 (Ambulance)
Health & Insurance
Malaria is a risk—use mosquito repellent and consider prophylaxis.
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from a risk country.
Tap water is not safe—stick to bottled water.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Transportation
Domestic Flights: Best for covering long distances (e.g., Maputo to Vilanculos).
Chapas (minibuses): Cheap and common but crowded and often unsafe.
Taxis: Available in cities; agree on fare in advance.
Car rental: 4WD essential for rural areas; roads can be rough.
Boats: Used for island transfers (e.g., Ibo, Bazaruto). Confirm safety standards.
Price Level
Mozambique is affordable by international standards but island resorts can be pricey.
Accommodation
Budget: Guesthouses or hostels (US$20–40/night)
Mid-range: Boutique hotels (US$60–120/night)
Luxury: Island lodges (US$250–700+/night)
Food
Street eats: Matapa, grilled fish, samosas (US$2–5)
Casual dining: Local restaurants (US$10–25/person)
Upscale restaurants: Maputo or island resorts (US$40+/person)
Drinks
Local beer: US$1–3 (2M, Laurentina)
Cocktails: US$5–10 in tourist areas
Transport
Domestic flights: US$100–250 one-way
Chapas/local buses: US$1–5
Private transfers: US$30–60 depending on distance
Boat to islands: US$10–100 (varies by route)
Money-Saving Tips
Eat at local mercados for cheap and tasty meals.
Travel by chapa for short distances (with caution).
Visit free beaches—nature is the main draw.
Book island lodges in the shoulder season (May–June, Sept–Oct) for deals.
Explore Mozambique
The vibrant capital city located in the south of the country. Explore its Art Deco and Portuguese colonial architecture, bustling markets like Mercado Central, and enjoy the lively nightlife. Visit the stunning Maputo Central Railway Station, often attributed to Gustave Eiffel.
A magnificent string of uninhabited and inhabited islands (including Bazaruto and Benguerra) off the coast near Vilanculos in the Inhambane Province (southern Mozambique).
A laid-back, charming fishing village located in the Inhambane Province (southern Mozambique), globally recognized as a premier destination for diving and snorkeling with gentle giants like whale sharks and manta rays.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the Nampula Province (northern Mozambique). This historical island, once the capital of Portuguese East Africa, is a living museum showcasing impressive colonial architecture, ancient fortresses like Fort São Sebastião, and a unique blend of African, Arab, and Portuguese cultures.
Located in the Sofala Province (central Mozambique), this remarkable national park is a testament to successful conservation efforts. It offers an authentic safari experience with a recovering population of diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and an abundance of bird species
A stunning and largely unexplored chain of coral islands stretching along the coast of Cabo Delgado Province (northern Mozambique). This remote paradise, part of a national park, boasts unspoiled coral reefs, untouched beaches, and historical ruins, perfect for dhow safaris and secluded getaways.
Situated at the southernmost tip of Mozambique, close to the South African border in the Maputo Province. This popular beach destination is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, excellent surfing conditions, and incredible opportunities for swimming with wild dolphins.
A charming historic town set on a beautiful bay in the Inhambane Province (southern Mozambique). It serves as a cultural hub and a convenient base for exploring nearby coastal attractions like Tofo and Barra.
One of Africa’s largest protected areas, found in the Niassa Province (northern Mozambique). This vast, remote wilderness offers an unadulterated safari experience, known for its significant populations of elephants, lions, and other large mammals in a truly wild and untouched setting.
A vibrant coastal town located in the Inhambane Province (southern Mozambique), serving as the primary gateway to the spectacular Bazaruto Archipelago. It offers a lively atmosphere with beachfront accommodations and a range of activities, including dhow trips to the islands and various water sports.
Smart Travel
Key Advantages:
Lowest Prices
Fewer Crowds
Authentic Local Vibe
Lush Green Landscapes
Birdwatching Season
Main Drawbacks:
Heavy Rainfall
Flooded Roads in Rural Areas
Humid Conditions
Some Lodges Close
Key Regions:
Maputo: Urban charm with vibrant markets, cafes, and cultural institutions.
Tofo Beach: Quieter diving experience and fewer tourists despite some rain.
Gorongosa National Park: Reopens toward the end of rainy season—lush and green.
Ilha de Moçambique: Historical exploration with fewer crowds and off-peak rates.
Key Advantages:
Ideal Weather
Manageable Crowds
Reasonable Prices
Whale Shark & Manta Ray Sightings
Excellent Safari Conditions
Main Drawbacks:
Some Regional Variation in Rainfall (April)
Higher Inland Temperatures (October)
Occasional Mosquito Activity
Key Regions:
Bazaruto Archipelago: Great underwater visibility and beach weather.
Vilanculos: Perfect beach-town vibe with fewer visitors.
Niassa Reserve: Wildlife viewing improves as bush thins out.
Pemba & Quirimbas: Beautiful beaches and coral reefs during calm sea conditions.
Inhambane: Cultural and coastal experiences without peak-season pricing.
Mid-Winter (July – August)
Christmas and New Year Holiday Period (Mid-December – Early January)
Planning Your Trip
Local Customs And Etiquette
Politics: Best avoided in conversation, especially regarding past conflicts or leadership; Mozambicans are polite but cautious.
Tipping: Not always expected, but appreciated—10% at restaurants, small change for porters or guides.
Dress Code: Modest attire is appreciated in rural areas; beachwear is fine on the coast, but cover up in towns.
Cultural Sensitivity: Always ask before taking photos of people or villages.
Public Behavior: Mozambicans are warm and respectful—greet locals with a handshake or “Bom dia!” (Good morning in Portuguese).
Markets: Bargaining is common but should be friendly, not aggressive.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Budget guesthouses (US$25–50), mid-range hotels (US$80–150), luxury lodges and island resorts (US$250–600+).
Food: Street food/local eateries (US$5–10), casual restaurants (US$15–25), seafood fine dining (US$40–80+).
Transport: Chapas (local minivans) are very cheap (US$0.50–1), taxis (US$5–10 in cities), car hire (US$40+/day).
Activities: Snorkeling/diving trips (US$30–80), island tours (US$50–150), park entrance fees (US$10–25).
Daily Budget:
Budget: US$50–80 (guesthouses, street food, chapas).
Mid-range: US$130–200 (comfortable hotels, seafood meals, activities).
Luxury: US$350+ (island lodges, private guides, diving excursions).
Internet & Mobile
Free Wi-Fi: Patchy—available at high-end hotels, cafes in Maputo, some beach resorts.
SIM Cards: Vodacom and Movitel are reliable. Prepaid plans: US$5–15 for several GB of data.
eSIMs: Not yet widely supported—bring an unlocked phone and buy a local SIM on arrival.
Travel Insurance
Recommended for: Health emergencies (public healthcare is basic), malaria coverage, and travel delays.
Adventure activities: Some policies exclude diving, quad biking, or boat trips—check before booking.
Evacuation coverage: Strongly advised if visiting remote islands or parks.
Accomodation Options
From beachfront eco-lodges to city guesthouses, Mozambique offers a wide range of lodging styles:
Luxury:
- Island resorts: Ideal on the Bazaruto or Quirimbas Archipelagos, with white-sand beaches and private villas.
- Safari lodges: Located in Gorongosa or Niassa, often all-inclusive with game drives.
Mid-range:
- Beachside guesthouses: Found in Tofo, Vilankulo, and Ponta do Ouro.
- Boutique hotels: Stylish stays in Maputo and colonial towns like Ilha de Moçambique.
Budget:
- Backpacker hostels: ~US$15–30/night, mostly in tourist towns.
- Local guesthouses: Family-run, clean, and affordable—great for cultural immersion.
Unique stays:
- Dhow camp retreats: Eco-friendly beach huts accessed by traditional sailing boats.
- Restored colonial homes: Especially in Ibo Island or Ilha de Moçambique.
Tip: Book island and beach lodges early for July–October (dry season), especially in Bazaruto.
Getting Around
Mozambique’s infrastructure is improving, but getting around requires some flexibility.
Flights:
- LAM Mozambique and Fly Africa offer domestic connections (e.g., Maputo to Vilankulo or Pemba).
- Flights are often the safest and fastest way to cover long distances.
Buses/Chapas:
- Local minibuses (chapas) are very cheap but often crowded and slow.
- Long-distance buses connect major cities like Maputo, Beira, and Nampula.
- Intercity travel can be long and uncomfortable, so fly when possible.
Car Rental:
- Ideal for exploring southern Mozambique—like Ponta do Ouro or Inhambane.
- 4WD recommended for rural roads and national parks.
- Drive on the left; police checks are common—carry all documents.
Boats:
- Ferries and dhow trips are common for accessing islands (Bazaruto, Ibo).
- Organize in advance—schedules can be irregular.
Public Transport in Cities:
- Maputo has informal minibuses and taxis; Uber-style apps are limited.
- Walking is manageable in small towns, though sidewalks may be uneven.
Handy Tips
Mozambique uses the Mozambican Metical (MZN). Bills come in 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 metical denominations. Coins range from 1 to 10 meticais, though they’re less common.
Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks due to poor rates. Use ATMs from major banks like BCI or Millennium BIM for better value. ATMs are available in major towns but may be scarce in rural areas.
Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and supermarkets. Always carry some cash for local markets, fuel stations, and remote areas. Amex is rarely accepted.
Tipping Etiquette:
Restaurants/Bars: 5–10% if not already included.
Taxis: Round up or add a few meticais.
Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$2–4/day for housekeeping.
Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for day/group tours.
Portuguese is the official language, but many Mozambicans speak local Bantu languages (e.g., Makhuwa, Sena, Changana). In tourist hubs, English is increasingly common, especially in hotels and tour companies.
Useful phrases:
“Onde fica a praia?” – “Where is the beach?”
“Quanto custa?” – “How much is it?”
“Pode fazer um desconto?” – “Can you give a discount?”
“Fala inglês?” – “Do you speak English?”
Pro Tip: A friendly smile and basic Portuguese phrases go a long way in rural areas.
Mozambique is generally safe in tourist areas, but exercise caution:
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in Maputo and Beira.
Be cautious in crowded markets—petty theft is common.
Don’t display valuables or large amounts of cash.
Emergency Contacts:
117 – Police
198 – Ambulance
199 – Fire
Keep your embassy’s contacts written down and saved on your phone.
Mozambique uses 220V/50Hz, with Type C/F plugs (two round pins). Travelers from North America will need an adapter and voltage converter for non-dual voltage devices (like some hairdryers).
Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas. Most lodges and restaurants provide safe drinking water. Use bottled water even for brushing teeth outside major cities.
Most public services, shops, and government buildings close on:
1 Jan – New Year’s Day
3 Feb – Heroes’ Day
7 Apr – Women’s Day
1 May – Workers’ Day
25 Jun – Independence Day
7 Sep – Victory Day
25 Sep – Armed Forces Day
25 Dec – Christmas Day
Note: During Independence Day, expect parades, music, and dancing in Maputo and major cities.
Shops: Typically open from 08:00–18:00, Monday–Saturday. Closed Sundays in rural areas.
Supermarkets: In cities like Maputo, open daily from 08:00–20:00.
Markets: Local craft and produce markets open early morning until late afternoon.
Matapa – A rich stew of cassava leaves, peanuts, and coconut milk, often with crab or shrimp.
Piri-Piri Chicken – Grilled chicken marinated in a fiery chili sauce.
Chamussas – Triangle-shaped pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables.
Grilled Prawns – Often served beachside with garlic and lemon—fresh and enormous!
Xima – A maize porridge, eaten daily, similar to polenta or sadza.
Seafood Curry – Local twist on Indian-influenced coconut curries with fish, crab, or calamari.
Matata – Clam stew with peanuts and pumpkin leaves, popular along the coast.
Goat Stew – Slow-cooked in rustic spices, served with rice or xima.
Cashew Nuts – Mozambique is one of the world’s largest producers—roasted and sold fresh at markets.
Baobab Fruit Smoothies – Tangy and packed with Vitamin C, found in beach cafés and juice stands.
Alcoholic:
2M (Dois M) – Mozambique’s beloved lager, light and crisp.
Laurentina Preta – Dark beer with a malty, roasted flavor.
Manica Beer – Smooth and slightly stronger than 2M.
Tipo Tinto – Local sugarcane rum—try it with Coke and a slice of lime.
Amarula – Creamy liqueur from nearby South Africa, made with marula fruit.
South African Wines – Widely available; try Pinotage or Chenin Blanc.
Palm Wine – Fermented sap from palm trees—sweet, tangy, and traditional.
Cashew Apple Brandy – Rare and potent, made from fermented cashew fruit.
R&R (Rum & Raspberry) – Mozambican beach cocktail: Tipo Tinto + Sparletta Raspberry soda.
G&T Sundowners – Widely served in beach resorts at golden hour.
Non-Alcoholic:
Coconut Water – Sold fresh on the beach.
Mango Juice – Tropical and refreshing, available everywhere.
Sugarcane Juice – Fresh-pressed with lime and ginger.
Maheu – Fermented maize drink, slightly sweet and creamy.
Rooibos Iced Tea – Caffeine-free and herbal, often available in cafes.
Island of Mozambique (Ilha de Moçambique) – UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture.
Makonde Art – Intricate ebony wood carvings from the north.
Capulana Fabrics – Colorful cloths used in fashion and daily life.
Timbila Music – Xylophone orchestras from Inhambane (UNESCO intangible heritage).
Maputo’s Railway Station – A stunning architectural gem, designed by Eiffel’s student.
Fort São Sebastião – The oldest colonial building in sub-Saharan Africa.
Traditional Dance – Watch the Tufo or Xigubo at festivals.
Swahili-Arab Influence – Coastal culture blends Islam, African, and Arab heritage.
Church of Santo António – A striking modernist chapel in Maputo.
Local Storytelling – Oral traditions remain vibrant in rural villages.
Tofo Beach – Scuba dive with whale sharks and manta rays.
Bazaruto Archipelago – White-sand luxury, snorkeling, and dhow cruises.
Vilankulo – Laid-back coastal town perfect for kite surfing and beachside dining.
Maputo Fish Market – Buy your seafood and have it cooked fresh onsite.
Maputo Nightlife – Try Gil Vicente or Núcleo de Arte for live jazz and DJs.
Gorongosa National Park – An inspiring conservation success story.
Snorkeling at Two Mile Reef – Coral wonderland in crystal-clear waters.
Sunset Dhows – Traditional boats offering romantic evening sails.
Xai-Xai – A lesser-known beach escape just a few hours from Maputo.
Niassa Reserve – Remote and wild, for adventurous safari-goers.
Coconuts Live, Maputo – Popular for live music, DJs, and late-night dancing.
Campo di Mare, Tofo – Casual beach bar with bonfires and cocktails.
Bar Kalulu, Maputo – Funky artsy vibe with poetry nights and jazz.
Sunset Bars in Vilankulo – Watch the sun dip over the Indian Ocean.
Baobab Beach Bar, Vilankulo – Backpacker hangout with hammocks and cold beer.
Gil Vicente Café Bar – Cultural hub with afro-jazz, spoken word, and cold Laurentina.
The Beach Lodge, Tofo – Great food, live bands, and oceanfront views.
Mercado de Peixe Vibes – Late dinners with grilled prawns and cold Tipo Tinto.
Dhow Parties in Inhambane – Music, rum, and dancing aboard traditional boats.
Maputo Rooftop Terraces – Trendy spots like Zambi or Café Acácia for skyline cocktails.