Maputo - Discovering Mozambique

Travelling to Maputo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Maputo, a pretty good destination in Mozambique (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Maputo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Maputo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mozambique, here's everything to know about Maputo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Maputo

Maputo is the capital and largest city of Mozambique, located in the southern part of the country on the coast of the Indian Ocean. It has a population of around 1.1 million people and is known for its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and lively music scene. Maputo is also the hub of Mozambique's economy, with a bustling port and numerous international companies headquartered in the city. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Maputo include the Maputo Central Market, the Maputo Elephant Reserve, and the Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens. The city is also known for its seafood cuisine and sandy beaches.

What to visit in Maputo

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Maputo, Mozambique: 1. Maputo Central Market - This is a vibrant and bustling market in the heart of Maputo, where locals and tourists alike come to shop for fresh produce, clothing, crafts, and more.
2. Maputo Fortress - A historical landmark of Maputo city, this fortress is believed to have been built by the Portuguese in the late 1700s to protect the port from potential invaders.
3. Maputo Elephant Reserve - Home to a large variety of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, and zebras, this reserve offers an opportunity to see these animals in their natural habitat.
4. National Art Museum - This museum showcases a collection of traditional and contemporary Mozambican art, including paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts.
5. Maputo Cathedral - Located in the center of the city, this Catholic cathedral is a notable landmark in Maputo, with its striking architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
6. Praça dos Trabalhadores - This charming public square is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy scenic views of the city.
7. Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens - These gardens were established in the early 1900s, and are home to a diverse collection of plants and trees from around Mozambique and other parts of the world.
8. FEIMA - This open-air arts and crafts market is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts, and to see local artisans in action.
9. Inhaca Island - A short ferry ride from Maputo, this island offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and a variety of activities such as snorkeling and diving.
10. Casa de Ferro - Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this iron house is one of the most unique buildings in Maputo and is worth a visit for its interesting architecture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mozambique, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Maputo.

When to go on holiday to Maputo

The best time to go on holiday to Maputo, Mozambique is between May and October. This is the dry season, with low humidity and mild temperatures. The rainy season in Mozambique runs from November to April, and during this time the weather can be quite hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the occasional cyclone. It's still possible to travel to Maputo during the rainy season, but you should be prepared for heavy rainfall and potential transportation disruptions. Overall, the best time to visit Maputo is during the dry season when the weather is milder and more predictable.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Maputo

There are several ways to get to Maputo in Mozambique, depending on your location and budget. Here are a few options: 1. By Air: You can fly to Maputo International Airport (MPM) from major cities around the world. There are several airlines that operate flights to Maputo, including South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, and LAM Mozambique Airlines.
2. By Road: If you are coming from South Africa, you can drive to Maputo via the N4 highway from Johannesburg. You can also cross the border from Swaziland or Zimbabwe via road.
3. By Rail: Mozambique has a rail network that connects Maputo with other cities in the country, as well as neighbouring countries such as South Africa and Zimbabwe. The Maputo Railway Station is located in the city centre and is served by several trains, including the luxury Rovos Rail.
4. By Water: There are also passenger ferries that operate between Maputo and Catembe, a small town located across the bay from the city. This is a scenic way to reach Maputo, and you can enjoy great views of the city skyline from the water.
I hope this information is helpful!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Maputo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Maputo

Sure, here are some typical foods from Maputo, Mozambique: 1. Piri-piri chicken: Grilled or baked chicken marinated in piri-piri sauce made from African bird's eye chili, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Matapa: A traditional dish of cassava leaves with ground peanuts, garlic, coconut milk, and shrimp, served with rice or cornmeal.
3. Chamuça: Similar to Indian samosas, these deep-fried turnovers filled with spiced meat or vegetables are a popular snack in Mozambique.
4. Caril de camarão or Prawns curry: A delicious stew of fresh prawns, coconut milk, and spices, served with rice.
5. Frango à Zambeziana or Zambezian-style chicken: A fragrant chicken dish, cooked in a tomato and peanut sauce and served with rice.
6. Xima or Sadza: A type of cornmeal porridge, similar to Zimbabwe's sadza, served as a staple with a wide variety of Mozambican stews and curries.
7. Bifanas: A sandwich roll filled with thin slices of marinated pork or beef, typically served with mustard and hot chili sauce.
8. Bolos: Desserts made of cassava or sweet potato, coconut milk, and sugar, served as small round cakes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mozambique here.

Is Maputo an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Africa, Maputo can be relatively expensive for tourists. Prices for accommodations, meals, and activities can be higher than in neighboring countries like South Africa or Zimbabwe. However, there are still budget-friendly options available for those looking to visit Maputo. It is always recommended to do some research and compare prices before booking your trip. Additionally, it's worth noting that the exchange rate with the US dollar and other major currencies can fluctuate, which can affect the overall price of your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Maputo

There are several areas in Maputo where you can find good accommodation depending on your preferences and budget. 1. Sommerschield: It is an upscale and safe residential area that is popular with expats and business travelers. It offers luxurious hotels, guesthouses, and apartments for rent.
2. Polana Cimento A: This area is located near the beach and is close to many attractions in Maputo. There are several hotels, lodges and apartments to choose from.
3. Baixa: This is the downtown area of Maputo and is the commercial hub of the city. It is a bustling area with many shops, restaurants, and hotels.
4. Costa do Sol: This is a popular beach area that is perfect for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday. There are several beachfront hotels and resorts to choose from that offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
5. Museu: This area is located near the city center and is home to the Museum of Art. There are several hotels and guesthouses in the area that cater to tourists.
You can check hotel prices at Maputo here:
Booking.com

Is Maputo a safe destination for tourists?

Maputo, like any major city, has its share of crime, but it is generally safe for tourists if they take standard safety precautions such as staying in well-lit areas at night, avoiding showing off valuables, and being aware of their surroundings. It's also a good idea to stick to the main tourist areas and to use reliable transportation options, such as taxis or hired drivers. Additionally, it's recommended to research the current safety situation and news before traveling to Maputo.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mozambique here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Maputo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Maputo the most?

Maputo, Mozambique is a beautiful city that offers different activities for different types of travelers. Here are some recommendations: - Couples: Maputo has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs where you can have a romantic dinner or dancing the night away. One of the most popular places for couples is the Polana Serena Hotel with a beautiful view of the city. You can also take a stroll along the Avenida Marginal or visit the Jardim Tunduru Botanical Garden for a romantic picnic.
- Young people: If you're looking for fun and adventure, Maputo has plenty of activities to offer. You can take surfing lessons in Costa do Sol or go for a quad bike ride through the Maputo Elephant Reserve. The city also has many music festivals throughout the year such as the Maputo International Music Festival.
- Families: For families, there are several family-friendly activities to enjoy in Maputo, such as visiting the Maputo Elephant Reserve, which has a variety of animals such as zebras, giraffes, and elephants. You can also take a trip to Inhaca Island where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy water activities with the whole family.
In general, Maputo is a place that can cater to different types of travelers, whether you are visiting as a couple, a young person or a family.

How to get around Maputo

In Maputo, you can use a variety of transportation options to move around the city. The most common form of transportation is minibus taxis known as "Chapa." Chapas are affordable and convenient, but they can get crowded and are not always safe.
Another option for transportation is the city's bus system, known as "TPM" (Transporte Publico de Maputo). TPM buses are also affordable but can be delayed during peak hours.
For a more comfortable and private experience, you can use a taxi or a ride-hailing app such as Uber.
If you want to explore the city independently, you can rent a car or a scooter from a rental company. Keep in mind that the driving conditions in Maputo can be challenging, and you need to be an experienced driver to navigate the roads.

What to see around Maputo

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Maputo: 1. Inhaca Island - a small island off the coast of Maputo, known for its stunning beaches and marine life.
2. Ponta do Ouro - a seaside town on the South African border, known for its beaches and dolphin tours.
3. Kruger National Park - a world-renowned wildlife reserve, located just across the border in South Africa.
4. the Maputo Special Reserve - a nature reserve located just outside Maputo, known for its wildlife, including lions, elephants, and buffalo.
5. Marracuene - a small town just north of Maputo, known for its beautiful scenery and traditional fishing villages.
6. Macaneta Island - another island off the coast of Maputo, popular for its tranquil beaches and mangroves.
7. Matola - a suburb of Maputo, known for its cultural and historical monuments, including the Matola Raid Museum and the Núcleo de Arte.
8. Manhiça District - home of the Manhiça Health Research Centre and the Dr. Eduardo Mondlane University.
For every travel information about Mozambique you can click here.

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