Mozambique is a beautiful country with some of the best beaches, coral reefs and turquoise waters in the whole of Africa and although it is at this very moment still being re-developed, tourism is starting to increase again. Beach resorts spring up around the marvelous coastline and some islands, like Bazaruto, have very good, although expensive lodges with postcard quality island surroundings of crystal clear water, palm trees and secluded white beaches. The country is still pretty much a travel destination for the independent seasoned traveler, that wants to explore areas where few Europeans have ever ventured.
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Geography
Mozambique streches for 2,470 km along Africa's southeast coast. Tanzania is to the north; Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe to the west; South Africa and Swaziland to the south. The country is generally a low-lying plateau broken up by 25 sizable rivers that flow into the Indian Ocean. The largest is the Zambezi, which provides access to central Africa.
Climate
There is no proper summer or winter in Mozambique. It is a tropical country and the temperature is quite high all year round (28C). The climate varies slightly according to the regions. The coast experiences a sub-tropical climate, whilst the northern parts of the country are tropical.
The best time to visit Mozambique is during the dry season from April to September. The best months for game viewing are between August and September, towards the end of the dry season. The best time for birdwatching is ususally November and December, which is in the hot and rainy season. A wide variety of fish are attracted to the warm waters of Mozambique, with larger fish populating the waters in summer and small to medium size fish in winter. This makes the coast a good fishing and diving destination.
SUMMER: October - March (hot and rainy season)
WINTER: April - September (dry and cooler season)
Note; Typhoons have been known to hit the Mozambican coast during the months of January and February. Therefore we do not recommend that you travel to this particular part of Mozambique during these months.
Accommodation and Food
Accommodation in Mozambique is quite expensive compared to neighbouring countries. There are luxury hotels in Maputo and some of the towns, and various beautiful resorts on the islands. Most of the accommodation however ranges from basic to average. The salty sea air gives a lot of places an out-dated look even though they have been built in recent years. Hotels and lodges are often made from natural materials, such as palm tree leaves and reeds, creating a distinct Mozambican beach style.
There are idyllic camping spots along the coast, with beautiful settings under coconut trees.
Given the history of the country, cuisine is often Portuguese with Eastern influences. Seafood like crayfish and Delagoa Bay prawns, is a must and then there are some hot specialities like peri-peri chicken and matapa (a sauce of peanuts and cassava leaves). While driving through the country you can buy lots of fresh fish, fruit and nuts alongside the roads, which is an attraction on its own! In the small towns one must stop at the local bakeries and try the freshly baked bread rolls (pao). Meat is scarce and so are certain vegetables.
Service
Service standards are generally low in Mozambique, compared to South Africa. Waiters in restaurants and even in some hotels often speak little English and take their time bringing the orders to the tables. Management, waiters and general staff are however very friendly which makes up for the wait.
Enjoy the fact that you are on holiday and experience another culture!
Health
Malaria risk exists throughout the year, particularly in the north. The predominant falciparum strain is reported to be highly resistant to chloroquine and resistant to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. The recommended prophylaxis is mefloquine, however please consult with your own GP before travelling to Mozambique.
We recommend that you subscribe to a medical insurance in your own country to cover costs, should you need medical assistance during your stay.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over one year of age that arrive from countries that have infected areas.
A cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Mozambique. However cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date medical advise should be sought before embarking on Mozambican travel. You need to decide whether these precautions should include vaccinations, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness. Immunization against typhoid and poliomyelitis is often advised.
If you are staying in lodges that have a good supply of water you should not encounter these problems.
Safety
Be aware of the possibility of crime, however one should have common sense; do not flash valuables about and definitely avoid walking alone in deserted areas, especially at night. Never leave your valuables unattended. The places you are going to visit are mostly set in a secure location, which are well protected.
If you travel through Mozambique with a (rental) vehicle and you have to leave your car unattended, take care to lock all valuables out of sight. Ensure that equipment on open-vehicles are tied down, as several incidents of children jumping on the back of slow moving vehicles and stealing the equipment have been reported.
There are many speed traps and police often patrol the main roads. Police officers will request visitors to show travel documents (including 3rd party insurance for vehicles) and passports and therefore visitors should always have it available. Don't be alarmed by the fact that they carry rifles as this is standard in many African countries. Always be polite, patient and friendly as this will solve any situation quickly.
Abide by the traffic rules! The fines for speeding are very high and the risk of getting into trouble as well!
Money Matters
1 meticais (Mt) is equal to 100 centavos.
The South African Rand is accepted throughout the country. Foreign currency including travelers' cheques and cash can be exchanged at some banks and forex bureaus. It is best to use American Dollars to prevent high commission charges and bad exchange rates. Credit Card usage is very limited except in the luxurious hotels. Declare all foreign currency on entry. Export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on entry.
Do not participate in exchanging money on the black market, as it is illegal and there are many con artists.
Social Behaviour
Shaking hands when greeting is normal. Like in Portugal, it is customary to call people by their professional titles. Informal wear is allowed. Do not photograph sensitive areas including airports, police and any government buildings.
Tipping of 10% is normal in restaurants and for taxis.
OUR TOURS TO MOZAMBIQUE
CLICK HERE for our guided Bush 2 Beach Expeditions
CLICK HERE for tailor-made self drive, fly in or guided tours to Mozambique
MOZAMBIQUE IN SHORT
Area size: 801 590 km2
Population: 17.840.000
Capital: Maputo (pop. 1.1 mil)
Currency: Meticais
Official language: Portuguese
Time: GMT +2
Tel. Country Code: +258
Electricity: 220V
THINGS TO DO in Mozambique
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WEATHER in Mozambique
