Dry Season
May to October offers cooler temperatures and less rain, ideal for wildlife viewing.
Travel guide
Мозамбік
Mozambique is a stunning country located on the southeastern coast of Africa, known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and diverse wildlife. Beyond its capital, Maputo, Mozambique offers a variety of experiences across its regions, from the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago to the bustling markets of Beira.
Boats_outside_Island_of_Mozambique.jpg : Stig Nygaard derivative work: Jjtkk · CC BY 2.0- Best MonthsMay to October
- AirportsMaputo International Airport (MPM), Nampula Airp
- TransitBuses, chapa, ferries
- Power220V, 50Hz
- Tipping10% is common
- LanguagePortuguese
01
When to go
The best time to visit Mozambique is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is cooler and wildlife is more easily spotted.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
November to April brings heavy rains, but the landscape is lush and vibrant.
Transitional Periods
April and October are transitional months with variable weather.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural Hub
Maputo
The vibrant capital city offers a mix of colonial architecture, markets, and nightlife.
Busy and lively, especially on weekends.
Beach Paradise
Inhambane
Known for its stunning beaches and historical significance, Inhambane is a great spot for relaxation and exploration.
Quieter than Maputo, perfect for a laid-back stay.
Island Escape
Bazaruto Archipelago
A group of islands offering pristine beaches and excellent diving opportunities.
Access is primarily by boat or small plane.
Historical City
Beira
Mozambique's second-largest city, known for its port and colonial architecture.
Less touristy, offering a glimpse into local life.
Northern Gateway
Pemba
A coastal city in the north, serving as a gateway to the Quirimbas Archipelago.
Great for diving and exploring marine life.
Cultural Experience
Tete
Located along the Zambezi River, Tete is rich in history and culture.
Less frequented by tourists, offering authentic experiences.
Market Town
Vilanculos
A charming town known for its access to the Bazaruto Archipelago and vibrant local markets.
Ideal for water sports and local cuisine.
Cultural Hub
Nampula
A cultural hub in northern Mozambique, known for its diverse population and markets.
Explore local crafts and traditions.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Piri-Piri Chicken
A spicy grilled chicken dish, commonly found at local eateries.
→ Try it at street vendors for an authentic taste.
Matapa
A traditional dish made with cassava leaves, peanuts, and coconut milk.
→ Best enjoyed in coastal towns.
Seafood Curry
A flavorful dish featuring fresh seafood and coconut milk.
→ Look for it in beachside restaurants.
Xima
A staple made from cornmeal, often served with stews.
→ A must-try for a true local experience.
Feijoada
A hearty bean stew with meat, popular across Mozambique.
→ Enjoy it at family-run restaurants.
Coconut Rice
Rice cooked with coconut milk, a common side dish.
→ Pair it with any seafood dish.
Fresh Grilled Fish
Locally caught fish grilled to perfection, available at coastal markets.
→ Best enjoyed with a squeeze of lime.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Gorongosa National Park
A biodiversity hotspot with a variety of wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Bazaruto National Park
Famous for its beautiful islands and rich marine life.
Maputo Elephant Reserve
A protected area home to elephants and other wildlife.
Quirimbas Archipelago
A group of islands known for their natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Inhambane Museum
Showcases the history and culture of the Inhambane region.
Fortress of São Sebastião
A historic fort in the city of Mozambique Island.
The Train Station in Maputo
An architectural gem and a hub of local transport.
Praia do Tofo
A popular beach known for its surf and diving spots.
Cultural Market in Maputo
A vibrant market where you can find local crafts and food.
Lake Niassa
One of the largest lakes in Africa, ideal for fishing and relaxation.
The Island of Mozambique
A UNESCO World Heritage site with rich history and architecture.
Ponta do Ouro
A stunning beach destination known for its diving and marine life.
The Baobab Tree
An iconic tree species found throughout the country.
Chimanimani Mountains
A beautiful mountain range perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Tete Bridge
A historic bridge offering scenic views of the Zambezi River.
Beira Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse that is a symbol of Beira.
The Maputo Railway Station
An architectural landmark and a hub for local transport.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Main airports include Maputo International Airport (MPM) and Nampula Airport (APL).
MPMMaputo International Airport
APLNampula Airport
Public Transport
Buses and chapa (shared taxis) are the primary modes of transport within cities.
Ferries
Ferries connect the mainland to various islands and coastal towns.
Car Rentals
Available in major cities for those wishing to explore at their own pace.
Biking
Biking is a popular way to explore coastal areas and towns.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and F plugs are commonly used.
Cash
Mozambican Metical (MZN) is the local currency.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Language
Portuguese is the official language.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A stay of at least 7-10 days is recommended.