What is the best time to visit Mozambique?

While travel to Mozambique is feasible in both the rainy and dry seasons, the majority of visitors are drawn to its seaside features. The optimal period to visit the picturesque coast is during the arid months from May to October, which is perfect for sunbathing and swimming in crystalline seas.

From November to April, the summer months see exceedingly hot and humid weather, particularly around the northern shore. Summer experiences peak rainfall and gloomy skies, which are not conducive for lounging on the beach and enjoying the sun.

It is strongly recommended to make advance reservations, as Mozambique increasingly attracts visitors throughout Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s. Regardless of the season selected, our Adventure in the Wild Safaris Travel Experts will guarantee your placement in the optimal region to enhance your seaside experience.

How to get to Mozambique?

Mozambique has three international airports: Vilanculos, Pemba, and Maputo. The latter serves as the primary airport, providing regular flights from Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Johannesburg. Direct flights are available from South Africa to the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos.

For the adventurous, Archipelago Charters provides island excursions in the Bazaruto Archipelago from Vilanculos Airport, while Safari Air Africa operates in the Quirimbas Archipelago.

Our Expedition in the Wilderness Safaris Travel Experts can coordinate all aspect of your Mozambique expedition, so relinquish the burden of arranging your trip – entrust it to us!

What is the historical background of Mozambique?

When visiting a country, one should also explore its history. This enhances the experience significantly, providing insight into the country’s current state and historical development.

What are the cultural influences in Mozambique?

Contemporary Mozambique exhibits remnants of past influences, particularly those of the Portuguese.

The country’s diversified culture originates from the Bantu migrations between the first and fifth centuries AD and the emergence of Swahili port communities from the 7th to the 11th centuries. Subsequently, merchants from Ethiopia, Persia, Arabia, Somalia, and India frequented these places, introducing their cultural influences. In 1498, Vasco da Gama commenced his expedition, initiating Portugal’s colonization of Mozambique. They governed Mozambique for more than four centuries, and the nation presently exhibits a significant Portuguese influence in its culture and cuisine.

When did Mozambique attain independence?

The nation attained independence in 1975, thereafter adopting the designation of the People’s Republic of Mozambique. Music served as a crucial instrument in their struggle for independence, functioning as a medium of resistance.

Nevertheless, only two years later, a civil war erupted, persisting from 1977 until 1992. 1994 was the inaugural year of Mozambique’s multiparty elections.

What are the recommended destinations in Mozambique?

Inhambane is situated roughly 500 km north of Maputo and is among the oldest cities in Mozambique, encompassing the vibrant adjacent settlements of Tofo and Barra. The Barra Peninsula features expansive beaches and the Manta Reef, renowned for its manta ray observations. The Barra Peninsula is an excellent location for swimming with whale sharks, while Tofo is regarded as one of the premier diving spots in Mozambique.

Bazaruto Island

Bazaruto, located southeast of the Save River, is the largest of the four islands comprising the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago. The island presents a variety of environments worthy of exploration, including freshwater lakes, towering dunes, grasslands, lush forests, and wetlands. The island hosts a plethora of biodiversity and plants, featuring sightings of Suni antelope, freshwater crocodiles, and many bird species. The adjacent waters include immaculate coral reefs, creating an ideal environment for divers.

Benguerra Island

Benguerra, the second-largest island of the Bazaruto Archipelago, provides remarkable marine biodiversity and several island activities. Benguerra has been a National Park since 1971, featuring extensive dunes, inland lakes, and numerous beaches to explore. More than 140 avian species inhabit the area, while the surrounding waters provide refuge for the endangered dugong and one of the globe’s most unspoiled coral reefs. Visitors to the island can partake in dhow excursions, diving, snorkeling, and thrilling catch-and-release deep-sea fishing.

Is a visa required for entry into Mozambique?

All travelers, with the exception of South Africans and Malawians, necessitate a visa to enter Mozambique. We advise securing the tourist visa prior to your journey to ensure seamless admission.

What is the duration required to process my visa application?

Permit three business days for visa processing.

What are the prerequisites for obtaining a visa?

– Two passport-sized photographs

– Invitation letter from Mozambique

– Evidence of secured lodging, such as hotel bookings

– Duplicate of an airline itinerary- Round-trip ticket – Passport valid for 6 months

– One visa application form

What is the required duration of validity for my visa?

Contact your pertinent embassy for the latest information.

Kindly confirm this information independently with the appropriate embassy, high commission, or consulate, as your consultant cannot be held accountable for any inaccuracies.

Am I permitted to drive in Mozambique?

In principle, affirmative. In Mozambique, vehicular traffic operates on the left side of the road. A South African or international driver’s license is required to drive in Mozambique; however, if your stay exceeds six months, you must obtain a Mozambican driver’s license. Speed restrictions typically reach 100 km/h on primary routes, whereas a reduction to 80 km/h is required while nearing towns, and 60 km/h or lower is mandated when traversing through them. This is regulated by radar.

Paved roads link Maputo to Beira and Beira to Tete. Exercise caution with people, children, and animals on the roadway, as they often traverse carelessly. A tree branch obstructing the road indicates the presence of a stationary car, pothole, or similar hazard ahead, serving as their equivalent of flares or hazard lights.

To prevent the undesirable situation of depleting your fuel supply, consistently carry a full jerrycan and promptly replenish it after use, as fuel stations occasionally have shortages. Diesel supplies are more dependable than gasoline.

Rental agencies are located in Maputo, Vilanculos, Beira, Nampula, Tete, and Pemba, the majority of which accept credit cards. Always utilize a seatbelt, and despite its allure, operating a vehicle on the beach is prohibited. Commence travel at the earliest possible hour in the morning, and refrain from driving after dark. Possession of the vehicle’s insurance certificate is mandatory while driving.

Be advised: If a traffic officer attired in an official white shirt and navy trousers apprehends you for a traffic violation, you may be required to pay an on-the-spot fine. Always request a ticket and an official numbered receipt that includes the officer’s name. Regular police officers attired in grey clothes lack the authority to impose traffic fines. Ensure you possess notarized copies of your official documents and refrain from relinquishing the originals. If solicited for a bribe, please reach out to the Anti-Corruption Hotline at +258 82 965 7804.

What is the most prevalent cuisine in Mozambique?

Mozambique’s traditional cuisine exhibits significant Portuguese influences in its flavors and recipes, predominantly utilizing fresh fish as a foundation.

A fundamental dish in the country is a porridge prepared from maize or cornflour, known as xima (hikmah). It is typically accompanied by veggies and beans or fish. Coconut and cashew nuts frequently feature in Mozambican cuisine, while Piri-Piri is a renowned Mozambican sauce typically utilized as a condiment.

Is an electrical plug necessary?

Ensure you own the appropriate travel adaptor prior to your departure to maintain the functionality of your cameras. Mozambique uses electrical plugs C, F, and M, operating at 220V and 50Hz. Here is a concise summary of the plugs: The Type C plug, sometimes referred to as the Europlug, is a two-pin unearthed connector utilized in Europe, certain regions of the Middle East, and a significant portion of Africa. The Type F plug resembles the Type E outlet, with the distinction of featuring two earth clips on the sides instead of a female earth contact. Type M, the South African electrical plug, features three circular pins and is fundamentally a larger variant of Type D.

Is internet connectivity readily available in Mozambique?

The internet connectivity in Mozambique is sufficiently robust, with internet cafes available in Maputo and other principal cities.

Roaming agreements are established with the majority of international mobile phone providers, and coverage is extending to all major cities in most provinces. All providers possess outlets in large towns where SIM-card starter packs (Mtc50) can be purchased; simply complete the requisite registration form and acquire top-up cards. The international dialing code is 00; however, ensure that a starting zero is not utilized. Seven-digit mobile numbers that begin with zero are located in South Africa and must be prefixed with the South African country code (27) when dialed. The country code for Mozambique is 258.

Postal services are accessible at primary locations if required. Airmail to Europe typically requires five to seven days, however it may occasionally take longer.

Practical Medical and Health Recommendations for Mozambique

Prior to embarking on a journey, it is essential to see your physician and procure comprehensive travel and health insurance that encompasses all planned activities during your holiday in Mozambique. Here are few beneficial health recommendations to consider:

– Malaria is prevalent in Mozambique; therefore, ask your physician regarding the requisite prophylactics. Continue taking the remaining antimalarial medication given by your doctor after your return home. Ceasing your medication prematurely may result in illness.

– Malaria is consistently a severe sickness and can be a fatal infection. Should you develop a fever while in a malaria-endemic region or within one year of returning home, it is imperative to seek prompt medical assistance and inform the physician of your travel history.

– Consume only pure or bottled water. – Keep in mind that you are in proximity to the equator, where sunlight is most intense. Effective sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle will prevent sunstroke. Place your personal drugs in your carry-on luggage and include copies of your prescriptions.

– Strategically organize your pharmaceutical regimen: Pharmacies are scarce and frequently inadequately stocked. A yellow fever certificate may be required if you arrive from a nation affected by yellow fever or where it is considered endemic.

– Avoid petting stray animals due to the potential risk of rabies. – Utilize beach footwear on the beach and appropriate shoes in urban areas.

Practical Currency and Exchange Recommendations for Mozambique

Engaging with a foreign currency might be either cumbersome or effortless. Adhere to our recommendations, and you will navigate Mozambique with ease:

– The local currency is the Metical, with the plural form being Meticais. Banknotes are issued in denominations of MT1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, and 20, while coins are available in MT10, 5, 2, and 1, as well as 50, 20, 10, 5, and 1 centavo.

– Credit card payments are accepted in Maputo, but typically not outside the capital. It is advisable to utilize USD or ZAR (South African Rand) for minor transactions, like market purchases and gratuities.

-The ZAR is exclusively accepted in southern Mozambique, whereas the USD is recognized nationwide; nonetheless, it is advisable to bring small denominations for transactions, as change will be provided in local Meticais.

– Currency can be exchanged at financial institutions and airports.

– Duty-free allowances comprise 200 cigarettes, 250 grams of tobacco, 750 milliliters of alcohol, and a decent quantity of opened perfume.

– The importation and exportation of the local currency of Mozambique are prohibited. The importation of foreign currency is unrestricted but requires declaration. The export of foreign cash is restricted to the amount declared upon entry.

– Banking hours are Monday through Friday, from 07:30 to 15:30.

Practical Travel Recommendations for Mozambique

Are you enthusiastic about traveling to Mozambique? Prior to your departure, we have assembled a collection of useful recommendations to ensure a seamless holiday experience:

– Consume exclusively purified or bottled water unless the hotel or resort indicates that their water system has been treated

– We strongly advise against wearing camouflage clothing, as it is prohibited for citizens in most African nations.

– Deposit valuables with hotel reception or secure them in your room safe

– Adhere to established pathways, even those beside roadways in rural regions. Despite its allure, refrain from free camping or venturing into the wilderness without prior consultation with local authorities.

– Mozambique’s terrain offers an exhilarating driving experience; however, it is imperative to note that the following actions are prohibited: driving on the beach, operating a vehicle without a seatbelt, surpassing speed limits, using a mobile phone while driving, failing to signal turns, and driving without two red hazard triangles and a reflective vest in the trunk.

– Whenever possible, avoid the foundations of bridges, derelict schools, abandoned structures, and water tanks.