Mozambique (Mocambique) is the land of smiles, it lies on the south-east coast of Africa with a 2500km coastline that is dotted with coral reefs, stunning islands and fantastic beaches. Whether you'd like an adventure holiday diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, sailing or just relaxing and getting away from it all, it offers something to everyone. The capital city is Maputo where visitors can enjoy locally caught fish at restaurants or take a day trip to Island of Inhaca, a popular spot for diving. In the south you find splendid beaches of Ponta do Ouro, to the north you find the famous beaches of Bilene and Xai Xai. Further up the coast around the city of Inhambane are many palm fringed secluded beaches. From Vilanculos you can go to Bazaruto Archipelago and last but not least far north are the sandy beaches of Pemba and the remote Quirimbas Archipelago. The many islands in Mozambique are true treasures, with their wealth of marine life and unspoiled beaches.
National Parks
Three mainland national parks occur in Mozambique, namely the Gorongoza, the Zinave and the Banhine. Bazaruto National Park is situated off-shore and, at present, is the main attraction for visitors to the country. Both Zinave and Banine parks are still closed, while the infrastructure of the reopened Gorongoza National Park is extremely limited. Five wildlife reserves occur, namely Niassa, Marromeu, Pomene, Maputo and Gile. Only the Niassa and Maputo Elephant Reserve are open to tourists. Various other Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCA's), which will include the use and management of local communities, are in the pipeline to be opened. Such areas include linking the Maputo Elephant Reserve with South Africa's Tembe Elephant Reserve, the Chimanimani National Park incorporating Zimbabwe, and the Gaza TFCA, which encompasses South Africa's Kruger National Park and Zimbabwe's Gonarezhou National Park.
Climate
The cooler, dry season runs from April/May to October/November. Daytime maximums during this time are around 24°C to 27°C on the coast but cooler are inland. The rainy season is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C on the coast.
VISAS
All nationalities need visas for Mozambique. Visas can be obtained on some of Mozambique's borders, including the international airports, but if possible get your visa in advance. A border visa will be valid for 30 days, renewable once for another 30 days, but a visa obtained at a Consulate or Embassy can be renewed twice, for 30 days each time. To renew your visa, go to Migração, located at the top of the steps that lead down to the baixa. It will cost around US$70, but be warned: for every day that you over-run your current visa you will be fined US$90, so keep an eye on this.
Must do's
- Feast on fresh seafood of every description: Tiger prawns, lobster, crab, lula, (calamari) game fish and much more!
- Take a trip on an ancient Arab dhow.
- Scuba diving and snorkelling in Mozambique is awesome - water temperatures are 27 degrees all year round.
- Mozambique have some of the most funky jazz club, bars and music clubs in Africa. The Mozambican people love to dance.
- Northern Mozambique is almost tourist free!
Maputo
Located in the southern parts of the country. Maputo was once world renowned as one of the most beautiful cities in the world alongside Cape Town and Rio. After almost 20 years of war, the capital is rundown today, with crumbling buildings and dirty streets. Maputo is still an interesting place, with a lively atmosphere. The city is slowly getting back to what it was 20 years ago i.e. full of old world charm. Must sees - The Fort, The Train Station, Botanic Gardens, National Art Museum, and the Municipal Market.
Mozambique Gallery
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