Mozambique is divided up into four distinct areas all offering their own unique aspects of this beautiful country.
- Bazaruto Archipelago - The Bazaruto Archipelago is a chain of tiny islands roughly 20 km off the Mozambique coast, and has been incorporated into the Bazaruto National Park. Its unique and isolated ecosystem ensures near-pristine diving conditions in warm waters heated by the Mozambique Eddies, with an amazing tropical sea life of brightly coloured corals, anemones, fish and turtles to enjoy, while saltwater fly fishing is growing in popularity in the archipelago.
- Inhambane - Almost 2 million coconut palm trees grace the Inhambane area, and the town provides a friendly glimpse back in time. Reed baskets at the market make a fine purchase, along with hats and mats. The bell tower at the 200 yr old Cathedral of our lady of the conception offers magnificent views of the town and surrounding bay, which is known for the hundreds of dhows that float on its tranquil waters.
- Inhaca Island - Inhaca Island is blessed with a series of beautiful beaches lined with brightly coloured offshore reefs and shorelines dotted with mango trees. Lying around 24 km from the mainland, Inhaca is easy to reach via boat or a short flight hop. The varied habitats across the island are a magnet for a wide range of birdlife, but it is the extraordinarily rich waters around the island that lures the most visitors, with a unique marine research centre, as well as gorgeous beaches and a reef life and marine opportunities that put the rest of the east coast of Africa to shame.
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Maputo -A heady tourist spot up until the early – 1970s, Maputo is a lively port city, and its avenues are laced with palm trees as well as jacaranda and flame trees. Maputo carries many ugly scars on its buildings (including its grand palaces, synagogues, markets, museums and humble Creole-style homes) as a reminder of the violent civil strife and political turmoil the country endured until the early – 1990s. Fortunately, the city is steadily rebuilding itself in the hope of recapturing its glory years as a tourist stop. Tourists are drawn to the historic Portuguese ports, a number of magical markets and plenty of good walking routes around town.
Flora and Fauna
Mozambique has a tropical to sub-tropical climate, and its landscape is dressed in temperate rainforests, mopane woodlands, old baobab trees, woodland mahogany and the unique mangroves with their root systems that run above and below the ground. Animal-life includes masses of birds (over 900 species) and an abundant marine life. The country’s mammal population suffered massive slaughtering during the years of civil strife, but numbers are increasing among the more abundant species, which include elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard as well as roan and sable antelopes.
Food and Drink
Amazing seafood and massive fruit that is so delicious you would never have dreamed such delights could exist. Some of Mozambique’s top dishes include Matapa (Shrimp and peanut stew), Frango a Cafrial (barbecued chicken) and Avocado Salad.
Language
The official language is Portuguese, albeit that it’s the first language of but a tiny minority of the population and is spoken by less than one quarter of Mozambicans. There are over 60 languages and dialects spoken, and English is quite widely used in the larger centres, but away from major cities, towns and resorts a smattering of Portuguese is beneficial for travellers.
Malaria
Malaria protection is imperative. Please consult your doctor regarding prophylactics. As with travel in any part of the world, it is advisable to know your blood type in case of an emergency as well as take travel insurance.
Money
Traveler’s cheques and the major credit cards are honoured at most leading hotels. The Mozambican currency (Meticals) cannot be converted back into foreign currency once exchanged. We recommend that you exchange some foreign currency for purchase of gifts etc from the locals whilst in Mozambique. South African Rands and US Dollars cash can also be used.
National Parks
Southern Africa’s abundant wealth of game parks and nature reserves makes it a haven of conservationists and naturalists alike. The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park was formed in 2002, creating a park across the borders of South Africa (Kruger National Park), Mozambique (Limpopo National Park) and Zimbabwe (Gonarezhou National Park), allowing animals to roam free across various habitats as their natural instincts dictate. Some of Mozambique’s most valuable and impressive protected areas include Bazaruto National Park, Gorongosa National Park, Gile Reserve, Pomene Marromeu Reserve, Niassa Reserve, Quirimbas National Park, Zinave National Park, Banhine National Park and Limpopo National Park.
Passport/visa
A valid passport is required. South African passport-holders do not require a visa. Other nationalities are to arrange their own Mozambican visas, preferably prior to arrival. Visas can be obtained at port of entry at a cost of US$ 25.00 per person. Contact your nearest Mozambican Consulate for further assistance.
Water
Tap water is safe to drink in some parts of Mozambique, however, unless otherwise indicated, we recommend you drink bottled water; usually available in all hotels.
Hotels in Mozambique
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