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Situated on the east coast of Africa, this tropical paradise is blessed with 2500 kilometres of spectacular coastline. With its idyllic beaches fringed with palm trees and lapped by crystal-clear waters brimming with a dazzling array of marine life, this enchanting African nation is an ideal adventure holiday destination, with an abundance of activities on offer such as snorkelling, sunset cruises, horse-riding, dolphin tours and world-renowned scuba diving. Mozambique’s two major centres, Maputo and Inhambane, offer an exotic kaleidoscope of art, music and delicious local food as well as a lively nightlife scene. Spend your days immersing yourself in the fascinating local culture, marvelling at the impressive colonial architecture and interacting with the fabulously friendly local inhabitants. Those seeking a more remote getaway can head for the isolated beaches of Benguerra Island; the historic Portuguese and Muslim architecture of Mozambique Island; or the outstanding wildlife of Gorongosa National Park. However, you choose to spend your time in this exceptionally scenic destination you are likely to leave with a heavy heart and a burning desire to return time and time again.
Entry Requirements
A visa is required to obtain on arrival at a cost of $50 USD PER PERSON CASH.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Mozambican Metical
Symbol: MT
ISO code: MZN
Subunit: Centavo (1/100 of a Metical)
Banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 meticais
Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10 meticais
Banking
Card Transactions: Widely accepted in major cities
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: No
Diner’s club: No
Banking Hours: Weekdays: 07:30 – 15:30, Weekends: Closed, Public Holidays: Closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: LAM Mozambique Airlines
International Airports: Maputo International Airport
Domestic Airports: Beira Airport, Nampula Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes, mainly in urban areas
Gravel roads: Yes, common in rural areas
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes, in major cities
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes, limited service
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes, to the Bazaruto Archipelago
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: Yes
Health and Medical Information
Mozambique as a developing nation faces many challenges on the health front. Travellers should check up on the status of their routine vaccinations before travel and visit a trusted medical professional for advice.
Important vaccinations: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR, tDAP and Rabies
Anti-malaria medication is advised as Mozambique falls within a risk zone. Good advice is to test your advised medication well in advance of travel to avoid last-minute or on-trip issues with the medication.
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, if washed
Ice: No
Meat: Yes, if cooked thoroughly
Street food: Yes, from reputable vendors
Local cuisine:
Mozambican cuisine is a delicious blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences. Seafood is a staple, especially prawns, served with piri-piri sauce. Coconut, lime, and spices enrich dishes like Matapa, a stew made with cassava leaves and nuts. Corn porridge (Xima) is a common side.
Drinks: Notable local drinks include Laurentina and 2M beers, and Tipo Tinto rum.
Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants.
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies greatly, from 500 mm in the south to 900 mm in the north
Average temperature: 28°C
Summer:
Average highs: 31°C
Average lows: 24°C
Winter:
Average highs: 25°C
Average lows: 18°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Mozambique is from May to November during the dry season when temperatures are cooler and there is less humidity, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and beach holidays.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes, during the rainy season
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
There are many internet cafes in Maputo and almost all major hotels have internet access. Outside Maputo internet access is erratic and typically available in places frequented by tourists.
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: C, F, M
Voltage (V): 220 V
Frequency (Hz): 50 Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
General Guidance
U.S. Embassy Maputo
Av. Kenneth Kaunda, 193
Caixa Postal, 783
Maputo, Mozambique
Telephone: (258) 21-49 27 97
Fax: (258) 21-49 01 14