MOZAMBIQUE
WILD ESCAPE & ENDLESS BEACHES
From pristine beaches bordered by the Indian Ocean to wilderness reserves where elephants and lions roam, Mozambique is a land of contrasts and authenticity. Explore the crystal-clear waters of the Bazaruto archipelago, immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Ilha de Moçambique or set off on safari to encounter unspoilt wildlife. Between awe-inspiring nature and mixed cultural influences, this jewel of southern Africa promises an unforgettable adventure of discovery and serenity.
Mozambique at a glance
Location: Located on the southeast coast of Africa, Mozambique is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, with a coastline of over 2,500 km. It shares land borders with Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Eswatini and South Africa. With a surface area of some 801,590 km², the country is home to idyllic beaches, paradise islands and national parks rich in biodiversity.
Capital: Maputo
Population: approx. 32 million
Official language: Portuguese
Currency: The Mozambican metical (MZN), with an exchange rate of around 1 euro for 70 MZN. ATMs are available in major towns, but card payments are limited outside hotels and luxury restaurants.
Time difference: +1h in winter and no time difference in summer to France and Belgium
Flight time: Approximately 12 to 14 hours from Europe with stopover
Entry formalities: Passport valid at least 6 months after date of return. Visa required, obtainable online (e-visa) or on arrival for around $50.
Health: Yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from a country where the disease is endemic. It is advisable to be up to date on the usual vaccinations and to take preventive treatment against malaria. Tap water is not potable, so it’s best to drink bottled water and cook food thoroughly. Mosquito repellent is essential.
In your suitcase: Light, breathable clothing, as well as covering clothing to protect you from mosquitoes in the evening. Swimsuits, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential for enjoying the beaches and islands.
Good to know: Mozambique is a predominantly Christian country with a strong African cultural influence. In Muslim areas, particularly in the north, respectful dress is advised. Tourist infrastructures are uneven: while Maputo and seaside destinations such as the Bazaruto archipelago are well equipped, other regions are more rustic. Mozambicans offer a warm welcome, but patience is required for formalities and services.
5 good reasons to visit Mozambique
Preparing your trip to Mozambique
How to get to Mozambique
The easiest way to get to Mozambique is by air. Maputo International Airport (MPM) is the main gateway to the country, but other airports, such as Beira (BEW) and Nampula (APL), also handle international flights. Several airlines, including TAP Air Portugal, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and Turkish Airlines, offer flights with stopovers from Europe. The price of a return ticket generally varies between €700 and €1,500, depending on the season and the airline chosen.
When to travel to Mozambique
Mozambique can be visited all year round, but the ideal time depends on the regions to be explored and the activities planned.
May to October is the dry season, with pleasant temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. This is the best time to enjoy the paradisiacal beaches of the Bazaruto and Quirimbas archipelagos, go diving or observe wildlife in national parks such as Gorongosa. Tourist numbers are highest in July and August.
November to April is the rainy season, with higher temperatures and high humidity. Showers are often intense but short. This period is ideal for admiring the lush nature and verdant landscapes, but some roads may be more difficult to access, especially in remote areas.
In short, the period from May to October is ideal for beaches, diving and safaris, while from November to April, the climate is wetter but more suitable for exploring the lush countryside.
Getting around Mozambique
Getting around Mozambique can be easy, although some areas are more difficult to access due to limited infrastructure.
Air travel is the fastest way to get between Mozambique’s major cities and regions. Airlines such as LAM (Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique) operate domestic flights to destinations such as Beira, Nampula, Pemba and Tete, but air travel is relatively expensive.
Driving yourself is possible, but it’s important to note that driving can be chaotic, especially in big cities like Maputo, with sometimes poorly maintained roads and heavy traffic. Generally speaking, it is advisable to drive with caution and hire a chauffeur-driven vehicle for greater safety, especially in rural areas.
The bus network is fairly widespread and provides an economical way to travel between the main towns and villages. Public buses are affordable, but can be crowded and uncomfortable. There are also minibuses (known as “chapas”) between towns, a popular option for locals.
In major cities and tourist areas, cabs and tuk-tuks are practical options for short journeys. It’s advisable to negotiate the price before getting in, or use local apps like Uber, available in Maputo for more transparent journeys.
Where to stay in Mozambique?
Mozambique offers a wide range of accommodation options, suitable for all types of travelers, whether you’re looking for a luxury stay, an authentic local experience or budget accommodation.
In major cities such as Maputo and Beira, you’ll find luxury hotels offering top-of-the-range services, spas and refined restaurants. International chains such as the Radisson Blu or the Polana Serena Hotel guarantee optimum comfort, with spectacular views over the Indian Ocean. For a more local, authentic feel, boutique hotels and guesthouses offer warm, intimate settings, often decorated to reflect Mozambican art and culture.
If you’re exploring the paradise beaches of the Bazaruto or Quirimbas archipelagos, you’ll find luxury beachfront resorts offering private villas and beach bungalows, perfect for relaxation, diving and water sports enthusiasts. These accommodations range from all-inclusive complexes to more intimate lodgings, ideal for a seaside retreat.
In more remote destinations like Pemba and Nacala, you can opt for lodges and ecolodges offering an immersive experience in nature, with breathtaking views and unspoilt surroundings.
For travelers on a more modest budget, inns, guesthouses and simple hotels are commonplace, especially in popular tourist areas. These establishments offer affordable rates while being well located for discovering the main attractions, such as beaches, local markets and national parks.
What budget for a trip to Mozambique?
The budget for a trip to Mozambique will vary according to your choice of accommodation, activities and level of comfort. Here’s an estimate to help you plan your trip.
Accommodation:
Prices vary considerably depending on the type of accommodation chosen. Luxury beachfront hotels, particularly in Maputo or the islands of the Bazaruto archipelago, can cost between €100 and €300 per night. For more affordable options, boutique hotels and local guesthouses offer rooms from €30 to €60 per night. Budget hostels and guesthouses can be found for around €10 to €25 per night.
Meals:
Food in Mozambique is quite affordable. In local restaurants, a meal can cost between €3 and €8, while in more sophisticated restaurants or luxury hotels, prices can reach €15 to €30 per person for a full dinner. Street food is also popular, with prices ranging from €1 to €3 for snacks or quick meals.
Transport:
Travel by public transport is inexpensive. A trip by local bus or minibus (chapas) can cost between €1 and €3. For longer journeys, such as from Maputo to Beira, bus fares can vary from €10 to €20. If you prefer greater comfort and flexibility, you can hire a car with driver for around €40 to €80 per day.
Activities and visits:
Entrance fees to tourist sites vary. For attractions such as nature reserves, entrance fees can range from €5 to €20. Activities such as safaris or boat trips in the Bazaruto archipelago can cost between €30 and €100, depending on the type of experience chosen. Diving and visits to Maputo’s historic sites can also be interesting activities, with prices ranging from €20 to €50.