Mozambique

Mozambique: general info for travelers

Mozambique is a country located in Southeast Africa. It has a population of approximately 29 million people, with diverse ethnic and cultural groups. The official language is Portuguese, and the country has a rich history, having been colonized by the Portuguese before gaining independence in 1975. Mozambique is known for its beautiful beaches, national parks, and wildlife reserves that are home to a variety of unique species. The country has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. The local currency is the Mozambican metical (MZN), and the country's economy relies heavily on agriculture, natural gas, and mineral exports.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Mozambique, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Mozambique: places to visit

Certainly, here are some main places to visit in Mozambique with a brief description: 1. Maputo - The capital city of Mozambique and home to a bustling market, sandy beaches and a range of cultural sites.
2. Tofo Beach - This beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and a variety of marine life making it ideal for diving and snorkelling.
3. Bazaruto Archipelago - A group of six islands located off the coast of Mozambique. The archipelago is surrounded by coral reefs and boasts some of Mozambique’s best beaches.
4. Quirimbas Archipelago - Located in northern Mozambique, this is a group of twenty-seven remote islands with crystal clear water and pristine beaches.
5. Gorongosa National Park - a magnificent national park with a diversity of ecosystems, including forests, savannahs, rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
6. Ilha de Mozambique - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an iconic historical site. The island was once the main port for the Portuguese traders and the Swahili merchants who traded in gold during the 16th and 17th centuries.
7. Inhaca Island - This is a small island located in the Bay of Maputo, and known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs, it is also home to a marine biology station and a lighthouse.
These are just a few of the many beautiful and interesting destinations Mozambique has to offer.
There is more to see and do in Mozambique: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Mozambique: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Mozambique, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Mozambique has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season typically runs from November to March, while the dry season lasts from April to October.
The best time to visit Mozambique for a holiday depends on what type of experience you are looking for. During the dry season, the weather is sunny and dry with little to no rain, making it the ideal time for beach holidays and water activities like snorkeling and diving. The months of June to September are particularly popular for tourism, as temperatures are cooler and the risk of rain is low.
If you're interested in wildlife, however, the rainy season is the best time to go. The landscape is lush and green during this time, offering better opportunities for wildlife sightings, especially bird watching.
Overall, Mozambique is a destination that can be visited year-round, but the best time to go depends on your interests and what you hope to do while you're there.

Mozambique: activities and what to do

Mozambique has plenty of activities and sports to enjoy while on holiday. Here are some suggestions: 1. Scuba diving and snorkeling - Mozambique has some of the most pristine and diverse coral reefs in the world.
2. Fishing - Mozambique offers some of the best deep-sea fishing in the world, with game fish like sailfish, marlin, and tuna.
3. Surfing - Mozambique's coastline is perfect for surfing with its consistent waves and uncrowded beaches.
4. Kayaking - There are plenty of waterways and mangrove forests where you can enjoy kayaking.
5. Wind and kitesurfing - The breezy conditions make Mozambique a great destination for wind and kitesurfing.
6. Island hopping - Mozambique has some stunning islands that are worth visiting, including the Bazaruto and Quirimbas archipelagos.
7. Wildlife safaris - Mozambique has several national parks and wildlife reserves where you can spot animals like elephants, lions, and buffalo.
8. Cultural tours - Mozambique has a rich cultural heritage and there are several tours available to learn about the country's history and traditions.

Mozambique: few words on history and culture

Mozambique has a rich history and culture that draws on a mix of African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences. The country was colonized by the Portuguese in the late 15th century, which had a significant impact on its culture and language. Today, Mozambique is a diverse society with over 40 ethnic groups and a variety of indigenous languages spoken throughout the country.
The country's music and dance traditions are particularly vibrant, with a mix of traditional and contemporary styles that reflect Mozambique's unique blend of cultural influences. The popular marrabenta music style originated in Mozambique and is now enjoyed throughout Southern Africa.
The cuisine of Mozambique is also influenced by its diverse cultural heritage, with a mix of African and Portuguese flavors and ingredients. Seafood is a staple of Mozambique's coastal regions, with prawns, crayfish, and calamari featuring prominently in many dishes.
The country is also home to a number of historic and cultural landmarks. The Island of Mozambique was a strategic trading post and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other notable attractions include the Gorongosa National Park, which is home to a range of wildlife species, and the Nampula Province, home to the impressive 16th-century Mozambique Island Fort.

Mozambique: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Mozambique would be by air. Mozambique has several international airports, including Maputo International Airport in the capital city of Maputo, and international airports in Beira, Nampula, Vilankulos and Pemba. Domestic airlines operate regular flights between these airports, making it easy to travel around the country.
Once you arrive in Mozambique, you can also travel by car, bus or ferry, depending on where you want to go. The major towns and cities are well connected by paved roads, and bus services are available throughout the country. In addition, there are also car rental companies that offer both self-drive and chauffeur-driven options.
If you are looking to visit the more remote parts of Mozambique, then you can also consider taking a ferry or boat ride. This is a great way to explore the many islands and coastal regions of the country. To hire a car to visit Mozambique, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Mozambique: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Mozambique with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Mozambique: 1) Piri-piri chicken: This is a spicy grilled chicken marinated with a hot and tangy sauce made from piri-piri chillies. It's usually served with a side of vegetables or rice.
2) Matapa: A traditional dish made from cassava leaves, ground peanuts, coconut milk, garlic, and shrimp. It's often served with rice.
3) Chamussas: Similar to Indian samosas, these are triangular pastries stuffed with spiced vegetables, beef, chicken or seafood.
4) Feijoada: A stew made from beans, rice, and meat. It's typically made with pork, beef or fish and sometimes includes vegetables like carrots and onions.
5) Pãozinho: Mozambique's version of Portuguese bread rolls. These are typically made from wheat or cassava flour and are served with spread or as a side to dishes like matapa or feijoada.
6) Caril: A seafood curry made with coconut milk, tomato, onion and a blend of spices such as cumin, turmeric, coriander and cinnamon. It's often served with rice. Overall, Mozambique's cuisine is heavily influenced by its Portuguese colonial history, combined with local African ingredients and techniques. Many dishes are rich and flavorful, incorporating a variety of spices, seafood, and meat.

Mozambique: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Mozambique can be relatively expensive for tourists, especially compared to other countries in the region. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation can be higher than in neighboring countries. However, there are budget options available for those who are willing to do some research and shop around for deals. Prices may also vary depending on the location within Mozambique, with the northern parts of the country generally being cheaper than the south. Additionally, the exchange rate of your home currency can also affect how affordable Mozambique is for you. Overall, Mozambique can be a bit on the expensive side for tourists, but with some planning and budgeting, it is still possible to have an enjoyable trip within your budget.

Mozambique: where to find accodation

There are several online platforms where you can search for accommodations in Mozambique, such as: 1. Booking.com: This is an online hotel reservation platform where you can find a broad range of accommodations at different prices in Mozambique.
2. Agoda: Similar to Booking.com, Agoda offers a wide selection of hotels, resorts, and apartments available for both short and long term stays.
3. Airbnb: If you prefer to stay in a homestay or would like to have a private apartment to yourself, Airbnb is an excellent platform to look for accommodations in Mozambique.
4. Tripadvisor: This website provides reviews, recommendations, and ratings on various accommodations in Mozambique, including hotels, guesthouses, and lodges.
5. Expedia: Expedia offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and resorts, and provides competitive rates. It's always a good idea to read reviews from previous guests to help you make an informed decision about your stay. Also, consider the location, amenities, and safety of the accommodation before making your booking.
You can check hotel prices in Mozambique here:
Booking.com

Mozambique: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Mozambique Ministry of Tourism, the country received around 2.2 million visitors in 2019. As for crowded periods, Mozambique does have tourism peaks during Christmas, Easter and school holidays when many locals travel to the beaches. The peak season usually runs from June to August, and during this time, accommodation and flights can be more expensive, and beaches and tourist sites can be more crowded. However, with a coastline stretching over 2,500 km, Mozambique offers a variety of places to visit and it's always possible to find less crowded spots even during peak season.
Mozambique is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any other destination, it's important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid walking alone at night and in secluded areas, especially in urban areas, as petty crime such as pick-pocketing and theft can occur. It's also advisable to avoid certain neighborhoods in big cities like Maputo, especially at night.
There are also areas of Mozambique that should be avoided due to security concerns, such as the northern province of Cabo Delgado, where there has been an increase in terrorist attacks since 2017. The situation in the northern parts of the country remains tense, and travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to these areas. In general, if you keep in mind the basic safety precautions and avoid known high-risk areas, Mozambique can be a safe and enjoyable destination to visit.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Mozambique on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Mozambique: events for tourists

Mozambique has many interesting events throughout the year that tourists can enjoy. Here are a few of them: 1. Maputo International Music Festival - This festival usually takes place in November and features some of Mozambique's and Africa's best musicians performing live.
2. Mozambique International Trade Fair - This is an annual event that takes place in Maputo in September and showcases Mozambique's best products, services, and technologies.
3. Gorongosa National Park - This park is known for its varied biodiversity and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and safari tours.
4. Quirimbas Archipelago - This group of 32 islands off the northern coast of Mozambique attracts tourists with its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and marine life. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
5. Cultural Festivals - Mozambique has several cultural festivals that celebrate its diversity, including the Tofo Festival in Tofu, the Carnaval de Maputo, and the Marrabenta Festival in Matola.

Mozambique: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Mozambique, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Mozambique: Day 1-3: Start in the capital city, Maputo. Spend a few days exploring the city's colonial architecture, lively markets, and local food scene. Make sure to visit the Museu Nacional de Arte and the Maputo Railway Station.
Day 4-6: Head to Inhambane, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and colonial architecture. Take a stroll through the old town and visit the local market. Relax on Tofo Beach and go on a day trip to the nearby Barra Beach.
Day 7-9: Visit Vilanculos, a beach town known for its offshore islands and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat trip to the Bazaruto Archipelago or go snorkeling to see the colorful marine life.
Day 10-12: From Vilanculos take a bus to Beira, the second-largest city in Mozambique. Enjoy the local cuisine, go shopping on the busy streets, and learn about the city's history at the Beira Railway Station.
Day 13-14: Finally, head back to Maputo and spend a day exploring and experiencing the cultural heritage of the country. This itinerary includes some of the prominent places that can give a good peek into Mozambique's history, culture, and coastal beauty. You can also extend your stay in any of these places depending on your interests.

Mozambique: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Mozambique described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ancuabe is a town and district in the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, located in the northern part of the country. The town is situated on the banks of the Lurio River and is known for its histor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ancuabe
- Angoche is a town located in the Nampula Province of Mozambique, situated on the Indian Ocean coast. It has a population of approximately 75,000 people and is known for its abundant seafood, beautiful... CONTINUE here for a trip to Angoche
- Beira is a city located in the central region of Mozambique, on the banks of the Pungue River, and it is the fourth-largest city of the country. It has a population of around half a million people and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beira
- Chai is a small town located in the northern part of Mozambique, near the border with Tanzania. It is situated on the coast of the Indian Ocean and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear wa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chai
- Chibabava is a small town located in the Manica province of Mozambique, in southeastern Africa. It has a population of around 14,000 people and it is served by a small airport and a railway station. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chibabava
- Chibuto is a town located in the Gaza province of Mozambique in Southeast Africa. It has a population of approximately 70,000 people and is situated on the Limpopo River. The town is known for its agr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chibuto
- Chimoio is a city located in the central region of Mozambique, near the border with Zimbabwe. It is the capital of Manica province and is a rapidly developing urban center. The city has a population o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chimoio
- Chokwe is a town located in the southern part of Mozambique. It is the capital of the Chokwe district in the Gaza province. The town has a population of around 72,500 people and is known for its rich ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chokwe
- Funhalouro is a town located in the Inhambane province of Mozambique, situated approximately 350 km north of the capital, Maputo. It is mainly inhabited by the local Yao people who practice subsistenc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Funhalouro
- Gurué is a small town located in the northern region of Mozambique. It is situated in the Zambezia Province, at an altitude of approximately 1530 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gurué
- Homoine is a town located in the southern region of Mozambique, specifically in the Inhambane Province. It is known for its historical sites, including the ruins of an ancient Swahili settlement and v... CONTINUE here for a trip to Homoine
- Ibo is a small island located in the northern part of Mozambique, in the Quirimbas archipelago. It is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and coral reefs. The island was an important tradin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ibo
- Ile de Mozambique is a small island on the northern coast of Mozambique, located about 3km from the mainland and connected by a bridge. It was once a major trading post and colonial capital, attractin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ile de Mozambique
- Inhambane is a historic port town located in the southern part of Mozambique. It is situated on a peninsula that juts out into the Indian Ocean, surrounded by beautiful turquoise waters and long white... CONTINUE here for a trip to Inhambane
- Inhassoro is a small coastal town located in the province of Inhambane in Mozambique. It is situated on the eastern coast of Africa and is known for its natural beauty, stunning beaches, diverse marin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Inhassoro
- Lichinga is a city located in the northern part of Mozambique, in the Niassa province. It is situated at an altitude of 1360 meters, making it one of the highest cities in Mozambique. The city has a p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lichinga
- Macia is a town located in the Gaza Province of Mozambique. It is situated about 192 kilometers north of Maputo, the capital city of Mozambique. The town is known for its production of cotton and suga... CONTINUE here for a trip to Macia
- Macossa is a small town located in the Sofala Province of Mozambique. It is situated approximately 160 kilometers northwest of the provincial capital, Beira. Macossa is known for its rich agricultural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Macossa
- Magude is a district in the southern part of Mozambique, located in the province of Maputo. It has a population of approximately 80,000 people and covers an area of about 4,500 square kilometers. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Magude
- Mandimba is a town located in the northern part of Mozambique, in the province of Niassa. It is situated near the border with Tanzania, and is known for its market and as a transport hub for surroundi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mandimba
- Manica is a province in the eastern part of Mozambique. It is located near the border with Zimbabwe and covers an area of approximately 61,661 square kilometers. Manica has a population of over 1.8 mi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manica
- 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 it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maputo
- Marracuene is a town located in the Maputo Province of Mozambique. It is situated along the southern banks of the Incomati River, which forms the border with Eswatini. Marracuene is known for its stun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marracuene
- Marromeu is a town located in the Sofala Province of Mozambique. It sits on the eastern bank of the Zambezi River and is best known for the Marromeu National Reserve, which is a protected area that is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marromeu
- Massinga is a small coastal town in Inhambane Province, Mozambique. It is located approximately 550 km north of the capital city, Maputo, and is situated between the towns of Inhassoro and Morrumbene.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Massinga
- Massingir is a town located in the Gaza Province of Mozambique, about 200 kilometers northeast of the capital city of Maputo. It is situated on the banks of the Massingir Dam, which was built on the l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Massingir
- Maxixe is a small city in the province of Inhambane in Mozambique, located on the southwestern coast of the country. It is situated along the Indian Ocean and has a population of approximately 100,000... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maxixe
- Metangula is a small town located in the northern part of Mozambique, on the western shore of Lake Niassa (Lake Malawi). It is part of the Niassa Province and is situated near the border with Tanzania... CONTINUE here for a trip to Metangula
- Metuge is a town located in the northern region of Mozambique, specifically in the province of Cabo Delgado. It is a relatively small town with a population of approximately 18,000 people. The region ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Metuge
- Milange is a town located in the Zambezia province of Mozambique. It is situated near the border with Malawi and is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The region is characterized... CONTINUE here for a trip to Milange
- Mocimboa da Praia is a coastal town in the Cabo Delgado province of northern Mozambique. It is located at the mouth of the Mocimboa River, which flows into the Indian Ocean. The town has a population ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mocimboa da Praia
- Mocimboa da Praia is a town located in the Cabo Delgado province of northern Mozambique, a country in southeastern Africa. It is situated on the coast of the Indian Ocean and is known for its beautifu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mocimboa
- Mocuba is a town located in the province of Zambezia, in the north-central region of Mozambique. It is situated on the National Road EN1, which connects it to the capital city of Maputo in the south a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mocuba
- Montepuez is a town located in the Cabo Delgado Province of Mozambique. It is known for its ruby mines, which have become a major source of income for the local community. The town has a population of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montepuez
- Mopeia is a small town located in the Zambezia province of Mozambique. It is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River and has an estimated population of around 18,000 people. The town is primarily a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mopeia
- Morrumbene is a small coastal town located in the Inhambane Province of Mozambique. It is approximately 40 kilometers from the provincial capital city of Inhambane. Morrumbene is known for its beautif... CONTINUE here for a trip to Morrumbene
- Mueda is a town located in the northern region of Mozambique, specifically in the province of Cabo Delgado. The town is known for its vibrant culture and history, as it was the site of a major uprisin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mueda
- Nacala is a city and a port in the northeastern region of Mozambique, on the coast of the Indian Ocean. It is the capital of the Nampula Province and has a population of approximately 150,000 people. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nacala
- Nampula is a city located in the northern region of Mozambique. It is the capital of the province with the same name and is the third-largest city in the country. Nampula has a tropical climate, with ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nampula
- Nhacra (also known as Nacala) is a port city located in the Nampula Province of Mozambique, on the east coast of Africa. It is one of the largest cities in Mozambique and serves as a major transport h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nhacra
- Nhamatanda is a district of the Sofala province in Mozambique. It is located in the central part of the country, approximately 40 km northwest of the city of Beira. The district has a population of ar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nhamatanda
- Palma is a small town located in northern Mozambique, near the border with Tanzania. It is situated on the Indian Ocean coastline and is known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. The town has a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palma
- Pemba is a port city in Mozambique located on the northeast coast, surrounded by the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. It is the capital of the Cabo Delgado province, and it's known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pemba
- Ponta do Ouro is a small town in the southernmost tip of Mozambique, known for its pristine beaches and abundant marine life. It is popular for scuba diving, snorkeling, and dolphin watching. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ponta do Ouro
- Quelimane is a city located in the central region of Mozambique, along the Zambezi River. It is the capital of the Zambezia Province and has a population of approximately 300,000 people. Quelimane is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quelimane
- Songo is a town located in the Tete Province of Mozambique, situated on the southern shore of the Cahora Bassa Lake. It is known for its hydroelectric dam that produces power for Mozambique as well as... CONTINUE here for a trip to Songo
- Tofo is a popular destination located on the southern coast of Mozambique, known for its beautiful beaches and excellent diving opportunities. It is a small town that offers a laid-back, relaxed atmos... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tofo
- Vilankulo is a coastal town located in the Inhambane Province of Mozambique. It is known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters, which make it a popular destination for water sports enthusias... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vilankulo
- Xai-Xai is a coastal city in the southern province of Gaza, Mozambique. It is located about 200 kilometers north of Maputo, the capital city of Mozambique. The city is known for its pristine beaches, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Xai-Xai


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