mozambique travel advisory

Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Mozambique - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Mozambique due to health issues , crime and terrorism . Some areas have greater risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• Certain districts in Cabo Delgado Province due to  terrorism .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Pemba, the provincial capital of Cabo Delgado, due to threat of terrorism.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as mugging, is common.

Terrorist groups in northern Mozambique continue to be active. Public areas may be attacked with little or no warning.

Mozambique’s health infrastructure is limited: there are only three doctors per 100,000 people, frontline health providers are often poorly trained, and medicine shortages are common. More than 1.2 million people in Mozambique have HIV/AIDS, representing a sizable population with compromised immune systems. In the event of a public health emergency, access to an ICU and ventilator support is highly unlikely.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mozambique.

If you decide to travel to Mozambique:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Consider hiring a professional security organization if traveling to the affected areas of Cabo Delgado.
• Be aware of increased government security checkpoints in Cabo Delgado Province.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mozambique.
• Have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Certain districts in Cabo Delgado Province – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorists continue to conduct and plot attacks on government forces, villages, and key supply routes in the districts of Ancuabe, Chuire, Ibo, Macomia, Meluco, Metuge, Mocimboa da Praia, Mueda, Muidumbe, Nangade, Palma, and Quissanga in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. 

Pemba, Capital of Cabo Delgado Province – Level 3:  Reconsider Travel   

Terrorist attacks in multiple districts in Cabo Delgado Province present the possibility that the provincial capital of Pemba is vulnerable to attack due to the proximity of violent extremist forces and their increasing sophistication.  

 Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months from entry into Mozambique.

2 for visa and entry/exit stamps.

No, for those traveling to the country and not residing with a citizen or resident of Mozambique (i.e., hotel, guest house, or lodge). Yes, for those visiting a citizen or resident of Mozambique .

Yellow Fever if endemic country recently visited (although sometimes applied more broadly to travelers from other places).

USD $5000 and 10,000 Mozambican Meticais (without declaration).

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Maputo Avenida Marginal, 5467 Maputo, Mozambique Telephone:+(258) 84-095-8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:+(258) 85-591-1911 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

*** Due to technical issues on the Mozambican e-visa website, U.S. citizen travelers wishing to obtain a visitor visa are advised to follow the guidance below related to tourism and business travelers until further notice. Please note an invitation letter is still required.***

• U.S. citizens wishing to enter Mozambique for the purposes of tourism or business are not required to obtain a visa at this time. Entry requirements are determined by the traveler’s length of stay which is decided by immigration officials at the time of visa issuance. Trips spanning more than 30 days likely will require the receipt of an approval to remain extension from the provincial Direcção Nacional De Migração closest to the traveler. Administrative fees may apply. Tourist and business travelers are required to show proof of a round-trip flight and hotel reservation. These travelers may stay  no more than 90 days (consecutive or interrupted) in a year . Travelers are eligible for tourist visas  only if  they do not intend to reside with a citizen or resident of Mozambique during their stay in the country. Due to the absence of a physical visa in travelers’ passports, the Direcção Nacional De Migração encourages travelers under this category to retain their receipt as proof of payment while in Mozambique. Tourist and business travelers from countries not eligible for visa exemption must apply for a visa using the electronic visa (e-visa) platform. 
• Travelers intending to reside with a citizen or resident of Mozambique during their stay in the country must obtain a visitor visa. Pre-approval for visitor visas can be obtained via the e-visa platform. Travelers must submit a notarized letter of support from their host as well as proof of the host’s status in Mozambique (i.e., valid visa, foreign residency document known as a DIRE, or passport) with the application. Visitor visa pre-approvals are located under the “Border Visa” section of the e-visa platform.
• Visa pre-authorizations are accessed via the e-visa platform ( https://evisa.gov.mz/ ). In addition to tourist, business, and visitor visa pre-approvals, the site also provides pre-approvals for those engaging in crew member travel, humanitarian assistance efforts, sports and cultural activity participation, and investment.
• Pre-approvals are not guaranteed visas, travelers must be sure to travel with all requirements related to their visa category for official review and acceptance at the time of arrival to Mozambique. 
• In the case of diplomatic, courtesy, official, transit, student, work, temporary residency, and residential visas, the Mozambican government requires travelers to obtain visas from their nearest embassy or consulate before arriving at Mozambican borders. Those wishing to obtain a visa instead of a pre-authorization prior to arrival in Mozambique can apply for visas at their nearest embassy or consulate.
• Travelers 18 years and below traveling with one parent or unaccompanied must obtain a parental consent for the absent parent(s). The document must be notarized and in written in Portuguese. For additional assistance with this requirement, please contact:  [email protected] . 
• All travelers to Mozambique must be in possession of a  passport at least six months validity after arrival  that contains  least two clean (unstamped) visa pages  each time entry is sought. This does not include endorsement pages.
• Please pay attention to the authorized period of stay on your visa (" Autorizado a permaneçer pelo período de  [number of days]"). This is the maximum number of days you may remain in the country before you  must  depart Mozambique. This is distinct from the validity of the visa which indicates when you may enter Mozambique.
• Travelers not in possession of a valid visa  will be fined  for each day they illegally reside in Mozambique. Trips spanning more than 30 days likely will require the receipt of an approval to remain extension from the provincial Direcção Nacional De Migração closest to the traveler. Administrative fees may apply.
• All travelers except those traveling on diplomatic, courtesy, and official visas have associated fees. Visa-related fees are assessed and paid  only  at the following locations: embassies or consulates, local immigration offices once in Mozambique, and ports of entry (i.e., air, land, and sea borders). Fees are payable by credit card and local currency. Currency exchange options may be available at larger ports of entry for those not in possession of a credit card or local currency. Fee payment is not requested online .
• Travelers have 60 days from the date of visa issuance to use their visa. Unused visas will expire after the 60 th  day. 
• Please also visit the  Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique’s website  to review entry and exit requirements. Visa queries can be directed to the Mozambican Embassy of Mozambique located at 1525 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036 or by phone at (202) 293-7146 between the hours of 3-5 p.m. or online at  Portal eVisa de Moçambique .
• Travel to Mozambique often requires transit through South Africa. If traveling with minors, please visit the South African  Department of Home Affairs website  for the most up-to-date requirements as the requirements can change without notice.

Vaccinations:

• A valid certification of vaccination for Yellow Fever is required if you are coming from a country where Yellow Fever is present.
• Border authorities can require all travelers to present a yellow vaccination books.  See the  CDC website  for further information on suggested vaccinations for travel to Mozambique.
• If you cannot present a certificate at the port of entry, you will be vaccinated at your own expense.
• The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Mozambique. Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Please read the full Travel Advisory for Mozambique.

Road travel outside the city after dark is dangerous. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling outside the major cities after dark by car, and are encouraged not to travel outside the city alone. You should be vigilant when you travel in Mozambique and if you travel to/from South Africa, as both countries have high crime rates.

Crime: Street crimes, including mugging, purse-snatching, and pick-pocketing are common in Maputo and in secondary cities. Carjackings are rare, but still occur.

• Pedestrians have been mugged at all hours of the day. Avoid isolated areas and walking at night, even in well-known tourist areas.
• Avoid walking along the Marginal south of the Southern Sun Hotel and Avenida Friedrich Engels and Rua Caracol.
• Avoid walking along roads bordered by wooded areas, as criminals may hide there.

Johannesburg International Airport:

• Secure your bags. Use an airport plastic wrapping service.
• Avoid placing currency and high value items in checked luggage when transiting.

Landmines:  Mozambique was declared free of all known landmines in 2015; however, there could remain unknown mines in very rural areas. Seek local information before going off-road outside major cities.

Information about specific safety and security issues can be found on the U.S. Embassy Maputo’s website . Victims of Crime:

Report crimes to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy at +258 21-49-0723. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help find appropriate medical care
• assist in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• help explain the local criminal justice process
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a lost/stolen passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Fraud:  The U.S. Embassy in Maputo has received reports of scams which originate online, and involve promises of large inheritances that require international travel. Victims of this type of scam are asked to deliver suitcases from one location to another, and become unwitting narcotics traffickers. Be skeptical about financial promises made by an online contact, and never carry anything that you did not pack yourself.

See the Department of State page for more information on scams. 

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur.  There is some tourism infrastructure, often operated by expatriates, but the host government has limited capacity to regulate.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified, either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the relevant field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside major cities to provide urgent medical treatment, especially outside normal working hours.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to host country laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be deported, arrested or imprisoned.  It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not wherever you go.

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice website.
• Carry your passport with you at all times. You can be taken in for questioning if you cannot present your passport.  
• Photography of some government buildings may be illegal. Ask before taking pictures.
• Driving under the influence can land you immediately in jail.
• Your U.S. passport will not help avoid arrest or prosecution.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information. Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report . LGBTI Travelers: Mozambique is a very tolerant society. Consensual same-sex relations are not criminalized and there is increasing space in public conversation regarding LGBTI issues. There remains, however, some societal stigmatization and room for progress in terms of full equal treatment, such as in the registration of LGBTI groups. See   our   LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report for further details. Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Although the government legislatively mandates access to public buildings, transportation, and government services for persons with disabilities, few buildings are accessible.

• Restaurants, hotels, and residential buildings have stairs at the entrance without wheelchair ramps, except perhaps at a few major hotels and retail areas.
• Pedestrian paths and transportation are extremely difficult for persons with disabilities.
• Sidewalks are not commonplace and, if they exist, are poorly maintained and dangerous to walk on at night.
• Pedestrian crossings are infrequent and drivers seldom obey traffic signals.
• Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations for disabled persons.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:

• Rape:  The law prohibits rape, including spousal rape, but it is not effectively enforced and is largely unknown in rural areas where the majority of rapes take place. Penalties range from two to eight years’ imprisonment if the victim is 12 years of age or older and 20 to 24 years’ imprisonment if the victim is under 12, according to the new penal code.
• Domestic Violence:  The law prohibits violence against women. Domestic violence against women, particularly spousal rape and beatings, remain widespread. Abuse of a spouse or unmarried partner is punishable with one to two years in prison, or a greater penalty if in conjunction with another crime.
• See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Consult the CDC website for the Mozambique prior to travel. Medical facilities are rudimentary, and most medical providers do not speak fluent English. Medications are not always available.  Public and private medical facilities exist in the city of Maputo and most provincial capitals.

• All health care providers require payment at the time of or before providing service. Most do not accept credit cards.
• You are responsible for all medical costs. U.S. Medicare does not cover you overseas.
• Prescriptions Medications: Check with Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the medication is legal to bring into the country.  Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage. We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. 

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : The EN4 toll road between Maputo and South Africa is well-maintained. The road network connecting provincial capitals is in fair condition, but can be riddled with potholes and other obstacles. Vehicles on certain sections of the EN1 roadway in Sofala and Manica provinces and the EN6 between Beira and Chimoio have been shot at and the Government of Mozambique has instituted convoys on some stretches of the road. U.S. Embassy officials are restricted from traveling in Sofala or Manica on the EN1 between the Save River (in the south) and the city of Caia (in the north) and on the EN6 between Beira and Chimoio. Restrictions are also in place on the EN7 from Nova Vanduzi to Luenha.    

• U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling outside cities after dark because of the increased risk of banditry, poor road conditions in some areas, poor maintenance of many vehicles in the country (e.g., no headlights or rear lights), as well as the threat imposed by livestock grazing on roadsides and intoxicated drivers.
• Travel outside Maputo often requires a four-wheel drive vehicle, which creates an additional security risk since these vehicles are high-theft items. Public transportation is limited and often has poor safety standards.   

Accidents Serious traffic accidents are one of the greatest threats to U.S. citizens in Mozambique. Accidents involving drivers and pedestrians are common and sometimes fatal. The potential for accidents increases at night due to unseen holes and obstructions, poor lighting conditions, pedestrians on the highways, and other vehicles driving without headlights. If a serious accident occurs or if a driver hits a pedestrian, crowds quickly gather.

• Mozambican law requires parties to an accident to render assistance ; however, you should exercise your best judgment. Render assistance if necessary and practical, but only if you feel you can do so without placing yourself at risk.
• Report the accident to the nearest police station and contact the U.S. Embassy immediately.

Traffic Laws :   Drivers should obey police signals to stop at checkpoints, which are common throughout Mozambique. Foreigners visiting Mozambique for more than 90 days are required to have an International Driver’s License or to obtain a Mozambican driver’s license. Public Transportation : The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens not to use “ chapas ” (local minibuses) as a method of transportation due to frequent, often fatal accidents involving these vehicles. See our  Road Safety  page for more information. Visit the website of Mozambique’s national tourist office . Aviation Safety Oversight : As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Mozambique, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Mozambique’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Mozambique . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Mozambique Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Mozambique. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio April 26, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Active cholera transmission is  widespread  in Mozambique. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Mozambique.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Mozambique.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Mozambique take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Mozambique.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Mozambique poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Mozambique are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Mozambique who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Mozambique. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Mozambique, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Mozambique. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite
• Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Mozambique, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Mozambique. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Mozambique include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Mozambique. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Mozambique’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Mozambique. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Mozambique may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Mozambique, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Mozambique.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Mozambique for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mozambique overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime.

Higher levels apply in some parts of the country.

Mozambique (PDF 334.2 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 117 or go to a hospital.

Call 119 or visit the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution  in Mozambique overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution  in Mozambique overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime.

Do not travel to Cabo Delgado province  and Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province .

Do not travel to:

• Cabo Delgado province, and
• Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province 

due to the extreme threat of terrorism, and ongoing clashes between armed groups and security forces.

Do not travel on the EN1 between the Save River and Muxungue, and from Gorongosa to Caia and on the EN6 between Beira and Chimoio.

Do not travel :

• on the EN1 between the Save River and Muxungue, and from Gorongosa to Caia
• on the EN6 between Beira and Chimoio

due to armed attacks on vehicles.

• Terrorism is a threat in Mozambique, with a higher threat in Cabo Delgado and in Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province. Attacks are very likely to occur in Cabo Delgado province and in Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province. Terrorists are likely to target foreigners, including westerners and western interests, and in towns and other areas where foreign companies operate and where expatriate staff reside. Clashes between armed groups linked to Islamist extremism and security forces are frequent. Raids on towns and villages, roadside ambushes and other attacks are common. There's an increased presence of security forces in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces.
• Avoid areas affected by demonstrations, protests or large crowds. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Due to lengthy delays experienced at the Lebombo/Komatipoort border, opportunistic criminals have targeted travellers and their vehicles. Take the appropriate precautions. 
• Kidnapping is a risk, including in Maputo, Sofala and in Cabo Delgado province. If you're travelling to these areas, get professional security advice.
• Violent attacks, including sexual assaults, occur. The risk of crime increases at night and during holidays. Don't go out after dark, even in tourist areas, and avoid isolated locations. Armed robbery, break-ins and car-jackings are common. Keep your accommodation and car doors locked.
• Petty crime, such as bag snatching, is common. Carry only what you need and leave valuables in a secure place.
• Mozambique experiences flooding, cyclones, mudslides and earthquakes. These can disrupt services. The rainy season is November to April. 

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Malaria occurs year-round, particularly outside Maputo. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Other insect-borne diseases include filariasis, plague and African sleeping sickness. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof and use insect repellent.
• The HIV/AIDS risk is high. Take precautions if you're taking part in high-risk activities.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include cholera, hepatitis, tuberculosis and rabies. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Medical facilities are limited. If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and include prison sentences.
• By law, you must carry identity documents at all times and present them on request to the authorities.
• Be careful when taking photos. You must have permission from the Ministry of Information to photograph officials, government buildings and other infrastructure.
• Don't buy endangered wildlife products, such as ivory and rhino horn. It's illegal to purchase or trade them without a licence.
• It's illegal to import or export local currency.
• Same-sex relations are legal, but there are local sensitivities. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate of Mozambique for the latest details.  To enter Mozambique, you will need a valid tourist visa, a valid working or temporary residence visa, or an identification document and foreign residence (DIRE). 
• Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're coming from a country where yellow fever is present. You may need it to enter Mozambique.
• If you're visiting Mozambique for 4 weeks or more, you may be required to show on departure proof of polio vaccination (recorded on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)). You should receive the polio vaccine between 4 weeks and 12 months before you depart from Mozambique. Failure to produce an ICVP may result in being vaccinated on departure. 
• Although all known minefields have been cleared, there's still a risk of landmines. Stick to well-travelled roads, particularly in the central and southern provinces. If you plan to travel outside Maputo during the rainy season, you'll need a 4WD vehicle. Get local advice on road conditions before you leave.
• Piracy is a threat in the Indian Ocean. If you're planning boat travel, check the International Maritime Bureau's  piracy reports .

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia has a consulate in Mozambique. It provides limited consular and passport assistance.  For full consular assistance, contact the  Australian High Commission in South Africa .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorism is a threat in Mozambique, with a higher threat in Cabo Delgado and in Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province . Terrorists are likely to target foreigners and foreign interests, including in towns and other areas where foreign companies operate and where expatriate staff reside. 

The insurgency poses an extreme threat in Cabo Delgado and in Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province, and attacks are highly likely to continue and to intensify, including in areas not previously affected by terrorist attacks.

An attack could happen anywhere and at any time.

To reduce your risks:

• consider likely terrorist targets and the level of security provided
• always be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report any suspicious items or activities to police
• take official warnings seriously
• monitor the media for threats
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's a terrorist attack:

• leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to do so
• avoid the area afterwards in case of more attacks

Don't gather in groups after an attack. This also applies if you're evacuated from a building for security reasons, such as a bomb threat.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

There's a threat of kidnapping in Mozambique. Groups with links to Islamic extremism are present, particularly in Cabo Delgado province.

Foreigners have been kidnapped by armed groups for ransom.

Kidnappings have occurred in Maputo and Beira. Most victims are locals but foreigners, including Australians, may be targeted.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited. 

To reduce the risk of kidnapping: 

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings 
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk 
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures 
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone 
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location 
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs 
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours 
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:  

Civil unrest and political tension

Violent clashes between armed groups linked to Islamist extremism and security forces have been occurring in Cabo Delgado province.

Raids on towns and villages, roadside ambushes and other attacks are occurring. There's an increased presence of security forces in the province, and clashes between security forces and insurgents are frequent.

We advise do not travel to Cabo Delgado. If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to Cabo Delgado province, you should:

• get professional security advice
• check local and social media for updates before you travel
• be watchful
• follow the advice of local authorities.

Attacks continue to occur in the districts of:

• Mocimboa da Praia

Militants have used machetes and firearms to conduct lethal attacks, as well as destroying vehicles, buildings and infrastructure. It is possible that violence could spill over into other districts. 

A ceasefire is in place in Sofala province, but sporadic violence continues to occur. This includes on the EN1 road between Inchope and Gorongoza and the EN6 road between Tica and Inchope.

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations can occur with little warning. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Avoid areas affected by demonstrations, protests or large crowds. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

During periods of unrest:

• stay away from crowds and demonstrations
• monitor local media and avoid protest areas
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent attacks, including  sexual assaults , can occur at any time of day.

Criminal activity increases at night and during holiday periods.

Petty crime is common and includes:

• mugging and robbery
• bag snatching

Criminals may target travellers.

Armed robbery and break-ins are common in Maputo and other towns. Gangs of armed robbers have attacked restaurants and cafes after dark.

Carjacking is also common. Be extra careful:

• on roads to Mutare, Zimbabwe
• on roads to South Africa

Serious  assaults  and robberies have occurred at 2 coastal resorts in Inhambane province.

To protect yourself from crime:

• secure your windows, doors and gates, including when you're inside your residence
• carry only what you need
• leave valuables, such as your passport, in a secure place
• don't carry bags that are easy to snatch
• avoid going out after dark, even in tourist areas
• stay away from isolated beaches and picnic spots

To avoid being carjacked or assaulted in your car, always keep your windows up and doors locked, even when moving.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including sexual assault, get medical assistance. The risk of HIV/AIDS infection is high. 

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Climate and natural disasters

Mozambique experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and sources such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in touch with your friends and family

Cyclones and severe weather

The rainy season is from November to April.

Flooding  occurs on low ground:

• around rivers
• in coastal areas

Flash floods and mudslides can block roads.

Cyclones may occur in coastal areas from November to May. The direction and strength of cyclones can change with little warning.

If there's a cyclone or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• roads and bridges may collapse or be blocked
• ports may close
• it may disrupt essential services, such as electricity and communications
• adequate shelter may not be available

If a cyclone or severe storm is approaching:

• know how to evacuate from your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter

Earthquakes

Mozambique experiences  earthquakes .

Ask about the earthquake safety measures wherever you stay, including hotels and public and private buildings.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you're going to high-risk areas, you'll probably need a specialised insurance policy. Check your insurance policy before you travel to high-risk areas in Mozambique.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Malaria  occurs year-round, particularly outside Maputo.

Other common diseases spread by insects include:

• African sleeping sickness

To protect yourself from disease:

• check your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

The rate of  HIV/AIDS  infection is high.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Other waterborne, foodborne and  infectious disease  risks include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• in rural areas, boil drinking water or drink bottled water with the lids sealed
• avoid ice cubes in rural areas
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water to avoid waterborne diseases
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Mozambique. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities are limited.

Costs are generally lower than in Australia. You'll need to pay upfront for treatment, even if you have travel insurance.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

By law, you must always carry ID with you, such as:

• other photo ID

You must have permission from the Ministry of Information to photograph:

• government buildings
• other infrastructure

It's illegal to export or import the local currency, Meticais.

You must have a licence to purchase or trade endangered wildlife products, such as ivory and rhino horn.

• Wildlife trade

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Lgbti information.

Same-sex relationships are legal, but there are local sensitivities. Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You'll need a visa to enter Mozambique.  Visas on arrival may only be possible under certain circumstances, see the Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique  for more information.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Mozambique  embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

International commercial flights to and from Mozambique remain limited. Contact your travel provider directly for the latest advice. To enter Mozambique, you need to hold a tourist visa, working visa, temporary residence visas or identification document and foreign residence (DIRE). You don't need to request authorization to exit Mozambique.

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Mozambique if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever. If you cannot present your yellow fever certificate you will be detained and returned to your country of departure. 

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Travel via South Africa

If you're travelling through South Africa, you may also need:

• a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate
• documents for parents or guardians  travelling with children

South Africa doesn't accept  provisional travel documents . Other conditions may apply.

• Travel advice for South Africa

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is Mozambique Metical (MZN). It's illegal to export or import MZN.

You can get MZN by exchanging:

• US dollars and South African rand in urban centres
• traveller's cheques, in US dollars or euros, at major banks in Maputo

You can only change traveller's cheques for MZN. It's difficult to change traveller's cheques outside of Maputo. You may be charged a high rate of commission.

Several ATMs in Maputo take international credit cards. You can use credit cards in most places. Mastercard is not accepted by all vendors and cannot be used to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Before you travel, ask your bank if your cards will work in Mozambique.

Keep your card in sight at all times during transactions.

Local travel

All known minefields have been cleared. However, risks remain.

Take care travelling away from the main road networks in remote and rural areas. Be very careful in the central and southern provinces.

Stick to well-travelled roads.

Driving permit

To drive, you must have both:

• a valid Australian driver licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Mozambique than in Australia. It's dangerous to drive at night on rural roads. 

Driving hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads
• poor local driving practices
• animals and pedestrians on poorly lit roads, especially in rural areas

If you plan to travel outside Maputo during the rainy season from November to April, you'll need a 4WD vehicle.

During the rainy season, road damage and floods may occur, including in:

• the North-South road

Some pedestrians may deliberately cause accidents to extort money from you.

Checkpoints are common. Police might ask for a bribe.

If you plan to drive in Mozambique:

• check you have the right insurance
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• ask for local advice on road conditions outside major centres

Stop at police signals, including at checkpoints.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike or similar other vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Use only registered taxis and limousines from reputable companies. Try to book them through your hotel.

Public transport

Avoid public transport. It can be unreliable and unsafe.

Choose to hire a car and driver from a reputable provider.

Piracy  is a threat in the Indian Ocean.

Somali pirates have attacked shipping vessels up to 1000 nautical miles (1852km) from the Somali coast. Targets include:

• commercial vessels
• pleasure craft
• luxury cruise liners

Read  piracy reports  from the International Maritime Bureau.

If you decide to  travel by boat  in the Indian Ocean:

• take security precautions
• be alert to threats

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Mozambique's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• tour operator
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Check the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in Mozambique. It provides limited consular and passport assistance. The ability of the Australian Government to provide consular help to Australians in 'do not travel' locations is extremely limited. 

Australian Consulate, Mozambique

Australian Consulate 405 Rua de Tchamba, Somerschield Maputo, Mozambique

Telephone: +258 84 693 3226

Email:  [email protected]

For full consular or passport assistance in Mozambique please contact the Australian High Commission in South Africa.

Australian High Commission, Pretoria

292 Orient Street Arcadia Pretoria, South Africa

Phone: +27 12 423 6000 Fax: +27 12 342 8442

Email:  [email protected]

Website:  southafrica.embassy.gov.au

Facebook:  Australian High Commission in South Africa X:  @AuHCSouthAfrica

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Mozambique?

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©nicolasdecorte/Getty Images

Mozambique beckons with its coastline and swaying palms, its traditions, its cultures, its vibe and its opportunities for adventure. This enigmatic southeast African country is well off most travelers' maps, but it has much to offer those who venture here: long, dune-fringed beaches, turquoise waters abounding in shoals of colorful fish, well-preserved corals, remote archipelagos in the north, pounding surf in the south and graceful dhows with billowing sails. Add to this colonial-style architecture, pulsating nightlife, a fascinating cultural mix and vast tracts of bush. Discovering these attractions is not always easy, but it is unfailingly rewarding. Bring along patience, a tolerance for long bus rides, some travel savvy and a sense of adventure, and jump in for the journey of a lifetime.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Mozambique. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bazaruto National Park

Bazaruto Archipelago

This1400-sq-km park protects the five islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago, plus surrounding waters. Thanks to this protected status, and to the…

Don't worry if you haven't the time or energy to summit Mt Namúli. Equally memorable is the 8km (one way) hike to the cascata (waterfall) in the hills…

Chissano Gallery

Works of renowned sculptor Alberto Chissano, as well as his remains, are on display in his family’s residence at the Chissano Gallery. Taxis from central…

National Art Museum

Half a block west of Avenida Karl Marx, the National Art Museum has an excellent collection of paintings and sculptures by Mozambique’s finest…

Centro Cultural Franco-Moçambicano

An excellent place, with art exhibitions, music and dance performances, films, theatre, a craft shop, a cafe and more.

Train Station

Maputo’s landmark train station is one of the city’s most imposing buildings. The dome was designed by an associate of Alexandre Gustav Eiffel (of Eiffel…

Maputo Special Reserve

Southern Mozambique

The Maputo Special Reserve – about a two-hour drive south of Maputo – is the closest place to the capital to experience Mozambique's bush. The pristine…

Gorongosa National Park

Though Gorongosa’s infrastructure is still being rehabilitated after the ravages of the civil war, and animal populations can’t yet compare with those in…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mozambique

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Mozambique

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From cruising across turquoise lagoons to hiking otherworldly coastlines, these island escapes offer something for every type of couple.

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Mozambique and beyond

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Mozambique Travel Guide Mozambique

Safety & security.

• Parks & Reserves
• Best Time To Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Popular Routes
• Getting There
• Malaria & Vaccinations

​Safety & Security – Mozambique

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Bradt guidebooks to African destinations, including the guide to Mozambique.

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Bradt guidebook to Mozambique.

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Mozambique.

In our opinion, Mozambique is generally a safe country to visit. Several governments have advised against travel to some areas, but tour operators will only take you to places that are considered safe. If you’re planning a self-drive trip in Mozambique, you should read the travel advisory links below. As is the case in many countries, theft is quite common in the cities but incidents are easily avoided by following basic safety precautions. Many tourists visit Mozambique every year and most visits are trouble-free.

Tropical cyclones may occur in coastal areas during the Wet season months from December to February. You should monitor weather updates when traveling at this time.

Below are tips on staying safe in Mozambique.

Staying Safe on Wildlife Viewing Activities

• Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Staying Safe in Cities & Towns

• Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions

Other Tips on Staying Safe

• Malaria & Vaccinations – Mozambique
• General Travel Safety Precautions

Governments' Travel Advice

Want To Visit Mozambique?

20 Mozambique Tours

• Mozambique Safaris & Tours
• Tour Operators for Mozambique

Safari Tours to Mozambique

9-Day Highlights of Mozambique

$3,593 to $4,159 pp (USD)

Mozambique: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Vilankulo (Start) , Vilanculos (Town & Beach) , Barra Beach, Vilanculos Airport (Vilanculos) , Vilankulo (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

6-Day Mozambique Luxury Tropical Tour

$2,365 pp (USD)

Mozambique: Private tour Luxury Resort & Hotel

You Visit: Vilankulo (Start) , Vilanculos (Town & Beach) , Bazaruto Island (Bazaruto Archipelago) , Vilankulo (End)

Safari With Us

5.0 /5  –  217 Reviews

4-Day Historic City and Idyllic Beach Tour of Mozambique

$1,263 pp (USD)

Mozambique: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Maputo (Start) , Ponta do Ouro (Beach) , Maputo (End)

Mmilo Tours

5.0 /5  –  124 Reviews

Last verified: Monday, 29. April 2024 at 08:03 AM

Mozambique Travel Advisory

• Eastern Africa
• Mozambique Travel Advice

We advise caution when travelling to Mozambique

Local situation: 3.0 / 5.

We advise caution when travelling to Mozambique. We detected travel advisories from 6 sources for this specific country.

Regional Situation: 3.0 / 5

Mozambique shares a land border with 6 neighbouring states. For this region of countries (including Mozambique), the Advisory Index is 3 (average value over all countries). All countries have some reported advisories: South Africa (3.4), Zimbabwe (3.2), Malawi (3), Tanzania (3), Zambia with 3 and Swaziland with 2.7 (of 5).

Current informationen on Covid-19 in Mozambique

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Mozambique. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET).

There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Mozambique.

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Advice scoring history for Mozambique

Chart of the risk level over that last 200 days. This is the daily calculated travel risk for Mozambique.

Chart of the number of sources over that last 200 days. This is the daily number of advisory sources (of any rating) that have been active on that day.

Note: Changes happening on the 28th/29th of July 2019 are related to a change in the software and number of sources processed.

Rating Details (single travel warnings)

These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Mozambique from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 3.0 out of 5.0 .

This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.

Advisory issued by: New Zealand

Do not travel to the districts of Mueda, Nangade, Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, Muidumbe, Meluco, Macomia, Quissanga and Ibo in Cabo Delgado province, including the islands off the coast, due to ongoing violent clashes and terrorism (level 4 of 4). Do not travel to the districts of Erati and Memba in Nampula province due to ongoing violent clashes and terrorism (level 4 of 4).

Source: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/mozambique

Advisory issued by: United States

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Mozambique due to health issues, crime and terrorism. Some areas have greater risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel To: Certain districts in Cabo Delgado Province due to terrorism. Reconsider Travel To: Pemba, the provincial capital of Cabo Delgado, ...

Source: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mozambique-travel-advisory.html

Advisory issued by: Canada

The Canadian goverment suggests: Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)

Source: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mozambique

Advisory issued by: Germany

Mosambik: Reise- und Sicherheitshinweise (Teilreisewarnung). The German government advises againt travelling this country.

Source: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/ReiseUndSicherheit/mosambiksicherheit/221782

Advisory issued by: Finland

Iaktta särskild försiktighet - Iaktta allmän försiktighet i hela Moçambique. Provinsen Cabo Delgado och distrikten i provinserna Niassa och Nampula intill Cabo Delgado: undvik onödiga resor. Rör inte dig i mörker och undvik demonstrationer. En täckande reseförsäkring rekommenderas.

Source: https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/MZ

This is a regional information covering specific areas of Mozambique.

Issued by: Finnish government

Coverage: Cabo Delgado

Info: Undvik icke nödvändiga resor

Individual rating changes for Mozambique

This is the recent history of individual changes of travel advices that affected the total asessment of Mozambique. Most recent events first.

Changes from August 8th 2020

The total rating for Mozambique changed from 3.7 to 3.5 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government decreased their existing warning for Mozambique to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 5.0 (by -1.0).

Changes from August 7th 2020

The total rating for Mozambique changed from 3.2 to 3.7 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Mozambique to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +3.0).

Changes from May 23rd 2020

The total rating for Mozambique changed from 3.0 to 3.2 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Mozambique to 2.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 1.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 23rd 2020

The total rating for Mozambique changed from 2.8 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government increased their existing warning for Mozambique to 3.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 18th 2020

The total rating for Mozambique changed from 2.5 to 2.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Mozambique to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

The Irish government increased their existing warning for Mozambique to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 16th 2020

The total rating for Mozambique changed from 2.2 to 2.5 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government issued a new warning for Mozambique with a rating of 4.0.

Changes from September 25th 2019

The total rating for Mozambique changed from 0.0 to 0.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government issued a new warning for Mozambique with a rating of 1.0.

The Canadian government issued a new warning for Mozambique with a rating of 2.0.

The New Zealand government issued a new warning for Mozambique with a rating of 2.0.

The Irish government issued a new warning for Mozambique with a rating of 3.0.

The Finnish government issued a new warning for Mozambique with a rating of 3.0.

About Mozambique

Mozambique with its capital Maputo is a country in Africa (Eastern Africa), slightly less than twice the size of California (801,590 km²). The country is located Southeastern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and Tanzania. The climate can be described as tropical to subtropical. The landscape is mostly coastal lowlands, uplands in center, high plateaus in northwest, mountains in west. With a population of about 21.28 million citizens.

Mozambican flag

Introduction Video

Basic Statistics and Facts

Environmental problems and natural hazzards.

These are problems Mozambique is facing. Environmental issues refer to damages of the nature due to industry and society. Natural hazzards refer to potential dangers originating in nature.

Environmental problems

• desertification
• elephant poaching for ivory is a problem
• increased migration of the population to urban and coastal areas with adverse environmental consequences
• pollution of surface and coastal waters

Natural hazzards

• devastating cyclones and floods in central and southern provinces
• severe droughts

Top Industries and Agricultural Products

These are the main product industries and agricultural products of Mozambique. This list indicates what this country is good at producing.

• petroleum products

Agriculture products

• cashew nuts

Mozambican Imports and Exports

These are the main product categories of imports and exports to and from Mozambique.

Export products

• bulk electricity

Import products

• metal products

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current travel advisory for mozambique.

Mozambique is currently rated at 3,0 out of a possible 5.0. Collected from 6 official sources. We advise caution when travelling to Mozambique.

Is it safe to travel Mozambique in 2024?

Visiting the country Mozambique is usually fine. The score is at 3,0 Just keep an eye open, obey local rules and you'll most likely be fine.

How many travel advisories do you know for Mozambique?

We currently evaluate 11 official sources each morning. Today, we know of active advisories from 6 individual sources for Mozambique.

What is the current Corona virus situation in Mozambique?

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Mozambique. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET). There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Mozambique.

What is the size of Mozambique?

Mozambique has a size of 801,590 km² or 309,496 mi² which is slightly less than twice the size of California.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

For non-country specific questions, please check our global F.A.Q.

Travel safety map for Mozambique and bordering countries.

If you want to embed Mozambique travel warning information into your website or application, check out these tools.

• Is Mozambique safe to travel?
• What's the safety situation in Mozambique?
• Are there security warnings for Mozambique?

2020-03-10: Integrated data from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2/ Coronavirus).

2019-09-01: Added timeline charts for risk level and number of advisories.

2019-07-29: Added two more sources (Finland and Denmark). Affects country ratings.

2019-07-15: South-Sudan was missing and was added today.

2019-05-18: Performance improvements for API users.

2019-03-23: Introduced professional API with more data.

2019-02-13: Added three more sources (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta). Affects country ratings.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Mozambique is currently experiencing a cholera outbreak in central and northern areas of the country. See information on cholera .

Emergency medical number

Call 08911, 21313103 or 21322222 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Health risks and recommended vaccines

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Mozambique guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Mozambique

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Mozambique where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Mozambique .

Hospital facilities are of a lower standard compared to the UK, especially in the north of the country. In cases of serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to South Africa or the UK may be necessary.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

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Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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What’s it Like to Travel in Mozambique?

Mozambique is my new favourite country.

Before I arrived, I had no idea what to expect from this little-visited Southern African spot and if I’m being honest, I was filled with trepidation. I had zero experience travelling Sub-Saharan Africa and the prospect of taking my first steps into the region (and doing so alone) was intimidating.

Especially because when I started researching travel in Mozambique online, I quickly realised just how few travel bloggers have been to Mozambique, how few trip reports there are, and how, if you venture into forums, you’ll find dozens of people announcing how unsafe it is and how, under no circumstances, should any woman travel there alone.

So I packed my bags and went anyway, because one of my favourite things to do when I travel is to shatter perceptions of a place.

And Mozambique? It’s perfectly safe for women travelling alone. It’s beautiful. It’s exciting. It’s adventurous. It makes you feel alive. The locals are so welcoming. The food is delicious. The beaches are out of this world.

The travel may be tougher here, but the rewards are far greater.

I tiptoed into Mozambique, wondering whether I’d be fleeing to South Africa in just a few days, but instead had to drag myself out of the country several weeks later. I can’t wait to return.

This is what it’s like to travel in Mozambique.

Don’t Believe Everything You Read

Confession: I was terrified when I arrived in Maputo.

It wasn’t that I had no idea what to expect, but that I had read so many scary pieces online that I was expecting nothing but danger. Let’s a take a look at some of the quotes I stumbled upon, from articles, blog posts and comments in forums:

Criminals are forceful and ruthless, often work in groups, and carry firearms. Expats and tourists have been targeted in the past, so be sure not to display any signs of wealth: jewelry, running shoes, cameras and purses should be left in the hotel or hidden extremely well. Women should never walk alone on the beach or take the bus unaccompanied. Unfortunately, attacks on female tourists have been increasing. Parents, DO NOT let your children travel to Mozambique! I had a very rough start. Within hours of my arrival in Chimoio I was cheated by moneychangers, had my laptop stolen in a hostel, had to abandon a horrid bus where we were squashed like sardines with stereo blasting. To top things off I was unable to get cash since ATMs very randomly accept cards in Mozambique. I wouldn’t recommend it. I did it a few years ago with my then Girlfriend. In the capital Maputo the hostel had guards on the gate to make sure no-one broke in. Armed guards at the ATM too.

Does that sound like a safe and wonderful country you’d want to visit?

Yeah, me neither.

So, why did I go? Because part of the reason why I even started a travel blog is because I love getting to show the reality of misunderstood places around the world. And in amongst the horror stories I found online, there were gushing reports of life-changing trips in a beautiful country full of welcoming locals.

So I went, and you know what? I felt just as safe in Mozambique as I do in many places in the world. I wandered on the beaches on my own and only ran into locals who wanted to make friends and show me around. I carried my camera and my phone in a bag and took photos and wasn’t mugged. It’s all anecdotal, sure, but I didn’t feel like I was travelling in some kind of dangerous, lawless country. I felt safe and welcomed in Mozambique — it felt no different to wandering around in Southeast Asia, for example.

I learned a valuable lesson here, in not believing everything you read about a place, and the importance of checking it out with your own eyes before making a judgment. Don’t let the fear-mongering online put you off visiting Mozambique — I felt less safe in South Africa, which is a place most people wouldn’t have any qualms about visiting.

If you are nervous about travelling to Mozambique, make sure you’re reading reports and experiences from people who have actually been to the country. It’s too easy for people to leave horrible comments on articles online, speaking about how Mozambique is dangerous, when they haven’t even been themselves.

The Visa is Awful to Get if You Won’t Be Travelling Overland Easy to Get

I’ve never written a guide for applying for a visa on this site before, but I’m in the process of finishing up one for Mozambique. Why? Because the entire process was complicated, frustrating, and wholly unclear. It was so bad that I started my application process over a month before my departure date and had my visa approved the day before I left . Man, that was nerve-wracking!

In a typical example of African bureaucracy, you can easily apply for a visa when traveling overland from South Africa. But when you’re flying in, the official stance is that you need to apply for a visa in advance. And to get said visa, you need to have absolutely everything booked in advance and your confirmations printed out, as well as a whole host of other documents and information. I even had to show a photocopy of my residency certificate for Portugal!

The most frustrating aspect of the entire process is that there’s no clarity surrounding the procedure. Some people claim you don’t need to worry and can get a visa on arrival; some say they were turned away at the airport. Some people say you just need to fill out a form; others needed to have bank statement, flight bookings, hotel bookings, letters of invitation, proof of residency. Some people have been told completely different things by two people at the same embassy.

If you’re heading to Mozambique, allow yourself plenty of time to get the visa and prepare for multiple trips to the embassy.

Update: you can now get a visa on arrival! Ignore everything I just wrote :-)

Mozambique is Bigger Than You Think

I gave myself two weeks to explore Mozambique and believed that would be enough time to jump my way along its coastline.

Yeah. Mozambique is so much bigger than it looks on maps! The coastline, for example, is more than 1500 miles long, which is roughly the same length as the east coast of the U.S.

Would you give yourself two weeks to travel the entire east coast of the U.S.? Nope! 

That’s a whole lot of land to cover and if you’ll be doing it overland, you can expect to spend days travelling from the south to the north. If you’re hoping to fly, you’ll be at the mercy of LAM, the Mozambican airline. Flights are infrequent and illogical, rarely going from where you are to where you want to be, and especially not on the date you want to fly.

When you’re in Mozambique, less is more. Build travel delays into your schedule and aim to spend three-to-five days in each place rather than one or two. I decided to spend my two weeks exploring the south of Mozambique and will save exploring the north for my next visit. The south is the more touristed part of the country, but the north still has a lot to offer — I can’t wait to finally get there.

If you have a month, you can comfortably see the vast majority of the country’s major tourist attractions. Here’s a quick breakdown of the routes you could follow:

• Two weeks in the south: Maputo, Tofo , and Vilanculos/Bazaruto Archipelago
• Two weeks in the north: Nampula, Ilha de Mocambique, Pemba, Quirimbas Islands
• One month: these two itineraries combined! Maybe with a trip to Gorongosa National Park in between.

Traveling in Mozambique Can Feel Adventurous

I was surprised when I touched down in Mozambique and discovered that hardly anyone travels alone in this country. The travellers I met were shocked that I was brave enough to visit solo — and I certainly didn’t feel brave! People would tell me that I was courageous and adventurous, and I’d be there having no idea that me going to Mozambique alone was a Big Deal.

And while I felt safe in Mozambique, there’s no denying that this was some of the most hardcore travel I’ve encountered to date.

It was having to be super-careful with my DSLR and keeping it hidden away, sometimes only snapping photos when nobody was around or tons of people were surrounding me.

It was learning that it wasn’t safe to walk anywhere at night and having to take taxis in the evenings.

It was the public chapas  — minivan buses that squeeze ten times the capacity into one sweaty, humid box while you bounce over potholed roads for hours at a time.

It was not being able to trust the police, because they’re corrupt as hell and always looking for a way to extort money from you.

It was the ATMs running out of money or not accepting my card.

It was having to be fearful of malaria and waking up to enormous bugs in my room, no matter how much money I paid for my stay.

It was the security guards outside of hostels and hotels and banks and stores.

In Mozambique, things felt rougher around the edges. The travel was more difficult and less comfortable, but was so worth it.

It’s definitely not a destination for first-time travellers, though.

TAAG is a Good Way to Get There for Cheap

I scored some bargain flights from Angolan airline TAAG, which made it super-affordable to visit Mozambique from Europe. I highly recommend keeping an eye on their flight prices and making note of when they’ll be having any sales. At around $250 return from Lisbon, Mozambique was cheaper to fly to than many European destinations would have been!

And Angolan Airlines were actually great.

Read more about how I find cheap flights around the world .

Low Season is Slow Season

I was concerned about visiting Mozambique in January, the wettest month of the year, but guess how much rain I experienced? One afternoon in Maputo that lasted for an hour, and an overnight thunderstorm in Tofo. That was it! Just as in Southeast Asia, I learned that the rainy season isn’t actually a terrible time to visit: the prices are cheaper, there are fewer tourists, and the rain isn’t frequent enough to spoil your vacation.

The rainy season definitely puts off many travellers from visiting Mozambique, though. In Maputo, I wandered around for six hours and didn’t see a single tourist. In Tofo, I would head down to the huge beach each afternoon and find myself sharing it with maybe three other people. When eating at restaurants in Vilanculos, my group of friends and I would often be the only people eating in the restaurant.

It sounds kind of boring, but it was actually fascinating. Imagine going to somewhere like Koh Phi Phi and having the entire place to yourself. In Mozambique, it’s possible!

If you’re aiming to visit Mozambique in the rainy season, be sure to keep an eye on the weather reports before you visit, and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers natural disasters and cancelled trips. I use and recommend SafetyWing for trips to Mozambique, as they cover you in these situations.

Take Your Anti-Malarials

I’d never taken anti-malarial tablets until I went to Mozambique, for the simple reason that none of the countries I was visiting were deemed high-risk, and dengue was more of a problem in them, for which there is no prophylaxis. Given how much time I’ve spent in mosquito danger zones, I’d have most likely ended up taking anti-malarials for years at a time, which wouldn’t have been great for my liver. So, whenever I was in the tropics, I would make sure to use bug spray, cover up, and attempt to avoid getting bitten as much as possible.

Well, Mozambique is high-high-high risk for malaria. Like, it’s one of the top five countries affected by malaria, with its prevalence ranging from 46% for children in rural areas to 17% in the cities. 26% of hospital deaths in Mozambique are due to malaria and every single local and expat I spoke to had contracted it a dozen times or more. And when I was researching early malaria symptoms, a significant amount of the people commenting in forums had contracted it in Mozambique.

The risk of malaria is real in Mozambique and you can die from it. Anyone who says anti-malarials are worse than malaria itself has never had cerebral malaria, which is a complication of a specific malaria parasite that is most prevalent in Mozambique. Cerebral malaria causes your brain to swell, which can lead to permanent brain damage, and also causes liver failure, kidney failure, rupturing of the spleen, fluid in the lungs, and death.

Take anti-malarials!

Malarone and doxycycline are both effective in Mozambique and I’ve never experienced major side effects with either.

It’s One of the Best Places to Dive on the Planet

Mozambique is all about the megafauna, with tons of whale sharks and manta rays visiting Tofo year round, and dugongs popping up every now and then near Vilanculos. I even got to swim with humpback whales and dolphins on an ocean safari in Tofo!

Let’s be honest: I’m not a diver, so I can’t speak from personal experience, but the vast majority of visitors to Tofo are there for the diving, and everyone I met couldn’t stop gushing about how mind-blowing it was.

For me, I settled with some snorkelling in both Tofo and Vilanculos, and the latter was some of the best of my life. I got to swim with an octopus, trumpetfish, parrotfish, stonefish, and a bunch of other colourful fish that I couldn’t identify but ogled at nonetheless.

Maputo Isn’t Going to Be the Highlight of Your Trip

Oh man, I didn’t like Maputo.

I hate saying that I hated a place, but I really didn’t vibe with Maputo.

I gave myself three days in the capital city, something that drew nothing but winces from fellow travellers when I shared this fact. Quite frankly, it was two days too long, as the vast majority of tourist sites can be seen during a day of wandering.

I’d hoped to go to the Maputo Elephant Reserve, but no tour companies would take solo travellers unless I paid double, which would work out to be around $400. I wanted to take a walking tour of the city, but the tour guide didn’t reply to my email enquiry until after I’d left Maputo.

So, that was fine. I told myself I’d just wander around the city and try to find its heart in amongst the trash. Guys, I’ve spent a lot of time in developing countries and trash doesn’t even bother me — it’s something I rarely notice — but in Maputo it. was. everywhere. On every single street I walked down, even the most popular ones in the centre of the city, it was piled up everywhere.

The harassment was real and intimidating. Men would drive their cars alongside me, calling me baby, then pull over, get out of the car, and follow me down the road! So many men that I passed on the street would call me sister or mama or baby or click their tongue or hiss at me. My guidebook said that walking along the red light district during the day was safe and interesting, but it resulted in nothing but a bunch of prostitutes shouting at me.

The most touristy things to do in the city weren’t even that wonderful, which made the sightseeing boring. Basically, I ended up feeling like there was nothing of interest to see, the harassment was intimidating, and I spent most of the time hiding and recovering in my room.

If you go to Mozambique, aim to spend no more than a day in Maputo. The best parts of the country are elsewhere.

The Beaches are Spectacular

Mozambique has some of the best beaches in the world, and the absolute best thing about them is that on most of them, you’ll have them all to yourself!

My favourite beaches were in Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Archipelago. This part of Mozambique is all about the sandbanks, and at low tide, you can walk out across them for hours if you wanted. It’s like being on another planet.

You Can Get By Without Speaking Portuguese

I was concerned about my lack of Portuguese language skills beyond the basic Portuguese I used while living in Lisbon for a year , but I needn’t have worried. I encountered zero language barriers within the country and 95% of the people I ran into spoke great English.

It’s supposedly harder to find English speakers in the lesser-visited north of the country, but if you stick to the south, you won’t need to worry about learning more than a few vital words.

Chapas Will Make You Cry Sweat, But There are Alternatives

Imagine a humid minivan with terrible suspension, bumping its way along pot-holed roads on a thirty degree day. Now imagine filling it with 10 times more people than the recommended capacity, until you’re all packed in the back like sweaty sardines. Maybe throw a child on your lap and some smelly food in there, too. Now, get the driver to rip you off on the price and have the local men start calling you baby and asking if you can take them back home with you.

That’s a chapa and it’s the easiest way to get around the country. They are also awful, so don’t be surprised if after your first ride, you swear off them and opt for flights and private transfers to get around.

Which is exactly what I did.

It’s Pretty Affordable

I wasn’t sure what to expect for affordability in Mozambique, as Africa isn’t the most inexpensive of continents, but I ended up pleasantly surprised.

Accommodation is where most of your money will go in Mozambique, unless you’re cool with dorm rooms. For a basic room in a guesthouse in Maputo, I paid $32 a night, for a fancy resort stay in Tofo that was one of the best places I’ve ever stayed in, I paid $63 a night, and for a private room in a backpacker hostel in Vilanculos, I paid $28 a night, although they had dorms there for as little as $9 a night.

Transportation varies depending on your level of comfort. If you wanted to travel between Tofo and Vilanculos, you could pay $3.50 to take several chapas and a ferry, $100 to hire a private driver to take you there, or $80 to fly there. Some people opt to hitchhike in Mozambique without a problem, but I didn’t try it while I was there.

And food is cheap, cheap, cheap! You can expect to pay around $2-3 a meal, or $10 if you’re in a fancy, sit-down restaurant for tourists. A beer is a couple of dollars.

Activities can be pretty pricey, depending on where you book them and how many people you’re traveling with. I had to turn down a lot of activities I was excited for because as a lone traveller, I was told I’d have to pay double to take any tours. It’s therefore best to stay in hostels and take their tours if you’re travelling alone. For a snorkelling ocean safari in Tofo, I paid $35, and for a day in the Bazaruto Archipelago, I paid $50.

I wrote an in-depth guide on how much it costs to travel Mozambique that’s worth checking out, as well as budget breakdowns for the hundred countries I’ve been fortunate to have visited so far.

It’s Safe for Solo Women Travellers

I really wasn’t sure what the demographics of travellers to Mozambique would be, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a mix of ages, travel styles, and races. And while I was one of the very few solo female travellers in the country, it was easy to make friends and I felt as safe as I do in Southeast Asia (very). I will say that I felt least safe in Maputo, even though nothing bad happened to me there, but the levels of harassment were intense.

What you can expect as a solo traveller in Mozambique, especially if you’re white like me, and especially especially if you’re blonde, is a lot of attention. For the most part, though, it’s totally harmless, and most dudes just want to chat and flirt with you.

You’ll Still Want to Get Good Travel Insurance

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

All I can offer is anecdotes, but even with my fantastic experiences, Mozambique is still more of a hardcore travel destination and there are horror stories online. In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Mozambique. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

Mozambique: One of My New Favourite Countries!

I love, love, loved my time in Mozambique and I’m already planning my return trip.

The beaches are wonderful, the locals are friendly, the food is delicious, and did I mention the beaches? It’s worth going to Mozambique just for them.

Have you been to Mozambique? If not, would you like to go one day?

Related Articles About Mozambique 💰 How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Mozambique? 🏖 Introducing Tofo: My African Beach Paradise 🏝 A Perfect Day in the Bazaruto Archipelago

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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144 comments.

The pictures you posted from Mozambique are fantastic and they make me want to go there (except I’m still an inexperienced traveler, so I will wait awhile). Also, it’s pretty awesome that you love the country as a whole and yet are able to write frankly about the harassment in Maputo (I also saw your snaps about this subject).

“I find myself instead thinking of my alternative blog title as The Accidental Adventurer. Because that’s what I seem to have become.”

Okay, so I know you are constantly asked about your next book, but maybe there’s the title to your sequel!

Ha! Maybe! :-)

I absolutely LOVE your posts because they are so honest and give you a true snapshot into what your experience was.

Ah, thank you so much, Rachel! That means a lot :-)

Stunning photos. I had no idea Mozanbique was so ‘tropical’ :) x

Thank you :-) I was surprised by how many palm trees there were in Mozambique — they were almost everywhere!

I just love how detailed this post is! I feel like I’ve had some experience there (which I definitely don’t!). Those beaches look incredible!

Thanks so much, Brooklyn! It took a long, long time to write this one! :-)

I now have a more invested interest in southern Africa – Mozambique is on the list!

Yay! I’m happy to hear that :-)

What a beautiful place! I haven’t travelled to many places but I have big plans and Africa was never somewhere I’d considered until my cousin actually cut her Australian working holiday short to return to Kenya and South Africa after only a couple of months! I love that you’re exploring the lesser travelled places :) It’s totally helping to expand my options in the future!

I’m so happy to hear that! I’m a contrarian, so I always like to check out places other bloggers don’t often choose to visit, and Mozambique ended up being one of my best choices so far :-)

Great post! You’ve got me from knowing nothing about Mozambique to wanting to go, and that feeling achievable. What’s the food like??

So good! Lots of spicy seafood :-)

This post is so incredibly comprehensive! It gives such a good view of what travelling in Mozambique is like! I’ve been hearing people talk more and more about Mozambique even though Dutch travel advice remains negative for the most part. Thanks to your post I feel much more excited to visit it one day!

I’m excited to hear that! :-)

What? Mozambique is not great at all for tourists I have worked in Mozambique for some years and it NOT safe for tourists. Mozambique is in the middle of a civil war, the people have horrendous living conditions barely surviving on the poverty line, crime is rampant. You probably did not know that the people you saw working at those lodges are paid slave wages and that is when they can get a job. Tourism dropped 37% from last year and that is because it is not safe, far less in fact unthinkable for a women travelling alone, you were very lucky that nothing happened to you . Sure some of the beaches are very nice but that does not make a great holiday, and yes Maputo is a dump and there is nothing to see there other than misery, poverty, crime and trash. South Africa has far more to offer, has a great tourism infrastructure in place and if something does happen you have some recourse unlike mozambique.

There has been a ceasefire on the civil war/rebel fighting since December and any news articles I’ve read over the past week have said that an official peace deal is most likely days away. Additionally, the vast majority of the rebel activity has been in rural areas where tourists are unlikely to ever visit, and I don’t think any tourists were ever caught up or injured in the fighting at any point. Also, as far as I’m aware, nothing ever happened in the south, where I, and the majority of tourists, visit/ed. Tourism dropped because of the rebel fighting, and when/if a peace deal is reached, it will most likely increase again.

You say that people are barely surviving on the poverty line and that people working in lodges are paid slave wages, but then your solution to this is to not go at all. Taking away tourism income from the country only harms it and directly hurts the people who are struggling, and it’s not a reason not to visit a place.

And finally, the crime rates are far higher in South Africa than they are in Mozambique, so while you’ll have more recourse there, there’s also a much higher chance of something actually happening to you in the first place. But if you have actual statistics about crime affecting tourists in Mozambique, I’d be happy to hear them and adjust my opinion of the country. Even the British government says most visits to Mozambique are trouble-free in their travel advice. As it is, you saying that it’s not safe is just as anecdotal as the expat in Mozambique who emailed me this morning to say she enjoyed my article and loves living in the country.

Go Lauren! I love how you replied to that and totally agree about the poverty thing. If that was a reason to not go someplace, that would be a pretty long list of places not to go, I’d think. Tourism is so important for a lot of places that just not going would make things much worse.

This was an awesome post and will definitely be back to read more.

Hey I really enjoyed your article. I spent 2.5 months in mostly the North coast but stayed a couple nights in Maputo and a few other places as well. I actually had a great time in Maputo. It was on my way out of Mozambique. I realized I had two nights there just before leaving the north. One of my Mozambican friends saw me off at the airport and he connected me with a couple of his friends in Maputo. Thank God! They took me out all night to these lil bar-like stations that were bulletproof plexiglass and metallic anti theft bars. We had a blast and being that there were three of us no one messed with me. They told me if I was by myself that some people would just enjoy my company but others would want to F me up. They said Inwould most likely get jumped pretty bad. The only problem we had was at one point we were in a busy part of town, we parked the truck and walked into a place for some drinks. Possibly being that I was white maybe someone thought I was rich and left valuables in the truck. Idk but someone broke in to it and stole some of their things. Thankfully my stuff was at their house. They went and talked to the cops but parked a good distance and told me to stay down cuz they will harass me. I had already experienced the police harassment up north and again as I was leaving the airport in Maputo. They got me to the airport way late for my plane. I had all my money in a travel pouch stashed really well. Good thing too cuz they started giving me a hard time about a bag of passion fruit lollipops I discovered there, BOMB Dizzle! They tried to act like I was smuggling shit and wanted money from me. I told them why I was there and said I had already given all my money away to all my beautiful friends I met here. I ended up giving them a few Metz (Meticals their currency) that I had in coins which was equivalent to a lot less then a dollar. The last couple negative things I hope to ever say about Mozambique, due to the poverty the men are much shorter than I. I’m a 6’2 blonde whiteboy and I only felt unsafe one time. I was grocery shopping and when I walked outside there was a dude who was about my size and he was trying to size me up. The last thing I’m going to do is fight a local so I just smiled, waived and said things like, “oh wow you big bro. It’s ok everything’s good broddah.” I then lil by lil got away from that situation. He just wanted to show he was big too but not in the right way. I traveled around hitch hiking and even met some thuggish friends who took me around on the back of their mortorcycles, while we rapped all day, and met their families. I felt and was very safe my entire stay. I too love the freaking beaches! I was there every chance I could get away for a dip. All this being said, if I were you or anyone on this thread, I would not travel there alone again. I know of a girl who was there who was hit over the head with a hammer-like tool and raped. She was walking with 7 others too. Someone jumped out of the bushes. Where we stayed they recommend that you travel with no less then 8 people at night and 4 during the day. I had traveled outside with one or no others too and felt 100% safe. Let’s also remember that was just our experience and luckily we for the most part only ran into amazing people but we can’t take away from others who have been hurt, it’s not just online talk. I’m totally not trying to scare anyone off or argue with you Lauren, I just think you might want to mention that the threat of danger there is real but thankfully u only ran into some of the most beautiful people on the planet as did I. I love the shit out of Mozambique and made numerous friends. I can’t wait to go back someday too! Oh sorry there was one more thing, as far as the poverty and traveling to help the local economy, unfortunately that’s not how it works. Well, It is when you’re eating at a small chicken & chips place paying a couple dollars for food or buying a capalana (sheet like fabric women wrap themselves with or guys like me find a tailor to make a bunch of cool clothes) but as far as those big hotels or most of the bigger stores and restaurants, they’re all owned by the Chinese, South Africans, and Middle Eastern people. They pay off the government. The elected officials get into office, rob the countries money and leave for the next guy to repeat. All that to say, my 2.5mo there and 2wks in Krueger National Park, Joberg, and CapeTown were the most rewarding, fun times I have ever had and I’ve been all over the world. You’re right about South Africa fasho. A couple times I pulled down the wrong street and it was almost as bad as San Bernardino, Ca. Haha No there were a cpl times I had drive off quick but there are so many cool things to do down there as far as animal reserves go and cool places to go. Food is really good too! Thanks again for the good read… Sistah!

Wait sorry, how are you going to tell another person if they had a good holiday or not?

During the past 25 years I have spent an accumulated 4 years living and travelling throughout Mozambique, without serious incident of a criminal or corrupt nature.

Yes, I did have my camera stolen at the Feira Popular in Maputo in 1993, but this was when distracted by too many cheap Impala beers and the attention of ladies who probably have never been chased – acknowledgements to Rodriguez.

My first trip was 6 months long on my bicycle, during the civil war, from Beira to Tanzania, and beyond. My latest trip was in October 2018 with two fabulous families from America. We started in Johannesburg and drove Maputo – Xai-Xai – Inhambane – Morrungulo – Bilene – Massingir – Kruger National Park.

As usual no problems, just (genuinely) pristine beaches, wonderful people and food and of course the special Wilderness and vistas of Kruger. My clients were charmed by Mozambique and awestruck by Kruger.

South Africa does have a very bad crime record. Tourists are sometimes targeted as a quick Google of the terms “OR Tambo Airport and tourists” will reveal.

Looking forward to my next adventure in gentle, beautiful and uncrowded Mozambique.

Thanks so much for this Lauren! We are thinking about Mozam and Tanzania for our next trip and this definitely fills in a lot of the gaps regarding tourist info for the country. What is the wifi like there?

The wifi was pretty good, actually. I found that the wifi worked really well in guesthouses *when* you were sat in the reception area — it was fast and you could Skype on it. The signal wasn’t often strong enough to reach your room, though, so I’d have to work in the common areas/restaurants. When I was researching, I found that the vast majority of accommodation options had wifi, and from the reviews, it seemed like it was usually usable.

Everything you write about Mozambique was true. From the trash in Maputo to the wonders on the cost line. And I do share the hate from Maputo.

Ah, I’m glad to hear that! I always find it a bit nerve-wracking when I post these summaries in case a bunch of people appear to tell me my entire perception was incorrect.

I’ve been so tempted by the idea of Mozambique for so long esp the coast and beaches so thank you for this honest and balanced intro!

No problem! It’s such a beautiful country and well worth a visit :-)

Wow! Great blog post. Looks like that’s another place added to the bucket list! Thanks, Lauren!

I’m looking for some advice on whether I would be safe in Mozambique as a young white man, as I would clearly look like a foreigner and am worried whether I would be targetted because of it. I would be volunteering in a local school near Maputo for around 6-8 weeks, staying with Mozambicans during that time. I’ve heard/seen conflicting evidence that Mozambique is safe to visit/is dangerous with high crime levels (involving violent robbery etc) from forums and the western embassies travel advice. For instance, the chances of being targetted as a victim of crime are about the same as a major US city, although most visits are trouble-free. Is it worth the risk? It truly looks like an incredible place.

In my opinion, if you’ll be staying with Mozambicans you’ll most likely be fine and I would go for it. The people you’ll be staying with will be about to tell you what to look out for and how to stay safe, so you’ll be in a much better position than the majority of travellers to Mozambique.

Wow. You are brave to do this, Lauren! I appreciate your efforts in writing the truth about Mozambique.

Thank you! :-)

This is a great post, thank you. I think you’re very good at showing the layers and different perceptions, here mainly on how safe it is to visit. Keep doing what you’re doing. :)

Thanks so much! I’ll do my best :-)

Wow . Incredible article . Mozambique is truly beautiful. The coconut trees , beaches and banana leaves remind me of Kerala, my home state. The sea color is better but. The small huts are fascinating. Added to my list of travel

And Kerala is high on my list of destinations to visit! I hope to get there later this year :-)

Your writing is the best!

Thank you so much!

All big cities are kind of dump. Specially in Africa. You can see the same situation in most of the big cities in the central and south Africa region. South Africa, Mozambique and Tanzania are the best examples of that.

Mozambique has some problems into bringing tourists in, although it’s a nice place to visit. But I wouldn’t visit it alone, as you did. I went there with a group of friends.

Although I have to say, I haven’t felt less secure than on the outskirts of Athens or Istanbul. So maybe it wasn’t that bad.

I know that Dave is scathing about pretty much all of the capital cities he’s visited in Eastern Africa, so I didn’t have high hopes for my time there. And yeah, there are definitely much nicer places in the country to see!

I would love to go to Mozambique one day – I’m a scuba diver and have indeed heard it’s amazing there! I’m actually headed to Eastern Africa for a few weeks this summer, and initially thought I could squeeze in some beach time in Mozambique as well, but this post makes me realise I’ll need more time. Will definitely be referencing this in the future. :)

I think you’d love Mozambique, Brenna! But yeah, it’s a huge country and getting around takes sooooo looonnnngggggg.

Great post Lauren! :-) Me and my (now) husband were backpacking Mozambique 6 years ago and the nature didn’t change at all! I bet it developed a bit when it comes to tourism but I don’t think that much, which I think is good to sustain such pristine and ‘naturally beautiful’ places. I remember Maputo not as a super ugly place however can’t diasagree it’s not a place you want to stay for more than 1-2 days. What I do remember what impressed me, was the old scratched portuguese architecture the city still had. We had to prolong our visas (anyway something was with it) and went to some embassy or some diplomatic point – I will never forget how beautiful and nostalgic that building looked like! It was like traveling in time to the colonial era (I guess)!

Mozambique is also opne of my favorite countries although that’s where we were robbed twice (Xai Xai and VIlanculos – in the Baobab Backpacker where you were, the story is really like from the movie but the management changed and everything so no need to write about it).

And for those who really want to backpack that country I do recommend arranging a dhow to Linga Linga island from Inhambane Bay – that was the most adventurous thing I have ever done in my life and the place is nature at it’s finest.

Looking forward to read more about your time in Africa! Safe travels, Alex

I have never been to Africa but I am making it my mission to get there this year! Mozambique surprises me, I didn’t expect it to be as how you described. The sandbanks of the Bazaruto Archipelago looks stunning. I hadn’t realised it was so popular to dive! would love to dive and see the whale sharks!

Parents, DO NOT let your children travel to Africa! – I love this !!!!! It shows how closed minded we can all be when we don’t know much about a place or a culture.

Thanks for the heads up about the Visa, will keep this in mind when we do visit and will keep an eye out for your post on how to get the visa :) Baobab Backpackers looks like a cute place to stay too! thanks for sharing:)

I think I was the only tourist in Mozambique who wasn’t diving while I was there, haha, so it’s definitely a popular place for checking out sealife.

And yes, exactly. And how so many people treat “Africa” as if it’s one giant country, full of danger and poverty and war, without realising it’s a diverse continent with, yes, some problems, but that doesn’t mean you should treat every single country as if it’s unsafe and terrifying. I’ve been to both Morocco and Mozambique and they couldn’t have been more different! Even Mozambique, Swaziland, and South Africa felt totally different.

I’d love to visit Africa, I think it’s such a fascinating continent with so much culture. But I’m not too well travelled yet, at least not solo so I’m not brave enough to venture there just yet. But when I do I’d love to visit Zimbabwe and South Africa. Thanks for the article Lauren

It can definitely be intimidating when you visit for the first time, but also, totally worth it! I’m glad I waited until I had a few years’ worth of travel experience before checking out, as I know I wouldn’t have coped as well if it had been my first solo trip.

Fascinating read, Lauren. Hoping to spend some time in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana in the next two years and I’m now thinking I should add Mozambique to that little list.

Yes! Do it! :-)

Love this post! Thank you for the insight!

Also – just finished reading your book. Beautifully written!

Thank you so much, RJ! That means the world to me :-)

Hey Lauren, stunning pictures. I must say along with a good blogger, you are an amazing photographer too. Thanks for sharing such wonderful narration of Mozambique. Keep Sharing! Keep Travelling. Good Luck.

Ah, thank you so much! That means a lot :-)

I’ve never heard of Mozambique country until I can across with your blog and I’m happy I get to know it. For sure, people from all around the world will fall in love with warm tropical weather and pristine beaches which stretch as far as the eye can see.

Happy I could introduce it to you!

Lovely read. Mozambique looks beautiful.Nice captures. :-)

Thank you :-)

It’s very interesting to know all about Mozambique. Great article.

Thanks, Irfan!

One of my best friends married a Mozambican and now lives there. This was so interesting for me to read from a traveler’s perspective, not just one who lives there. Thanks so much. I now feel more confident about me as a high-anxiety mom, taking my children there.

I’m so happy to hear that, Leah! :-)

I’d rather go to Zanzibar.

Great to see such a useful write-up. I also really enjoyed Mozambique. It’s not without it’s challenges but the people were great and the seafood was AMAZING. I’d love to go back and visit some of the islands one day.

The spiders though. I saw some really big spiders.

Oh man, I only heard about the spiders. Enormous ones that will run straight for you. I didn’t see any on my trip and I’m SO GRATEFUL FOR THAT, haha. Glad you enjoyed the post and totally agree about the seafood!

What a great post! I had a similar experience with Venezuela where I felt unsafe at times and nervous, but the people were so warm and the country so beautiful that it is a shame to be tarnished with just one brush!

It’s great to hear something positive about Venezuela, Reena!

This is the best post I’ve read so far. My boyfriend and I are on the more adventurous side as far as travelling goes, but I do believe our trip to southern Africa is going to really push us to the edge. And I am still not sure we should make this trek. Maybe you have some quick advice? We plan to visit South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and then possibly Mozambique, and then back to South Africa. We would only have AT MOST 5 days for Mozambique (travel included), and I understand it is REALLY tough to travel within Mo. We don’t mind “traveling quick” and we often only spend 2-3 days in each place, but if it’s too long or expensive to get to the southern part of Mo from Zim, then maybe this wouldn’t be worth it? I am excited to see the beaches and spend some time in the water (as the rest of our African adventure will be in the cities, or hiking through bush, jungle, etc.), so I guess I am asking if you would say it’s worth the trip? And if so, can you recommend a plan of attack from Zim? None of this is set in stone, I am only a week into planning this, so any advice at all would be amazing!

PS: my favorite beaches BY FAR were in Thailand! Is this better?

Yesterday I was talking about Mozambique , and the person I was speaking to , just make me feel like visiting the country . And now I found your post and I really like the way you talk about the country . I travelled a lot , but this time I will travel with a baby so I was wondering if it is a good place to go with a 4 months baby . I know people would say I’m crazy but with some care and good health insurance I’m not afraid to go there . But I would like some tips .

Plenty of people travel there with children, and travelling with kids is a great way to connect with the locals, too — everyone loves babies, all over the world! But I don’t have specific tips for travelling with a baby, as it’s not something I’ve ever had the opportunity to do. The only thing I would say is that if you’ll be travelling on a budget, the infrastructure can be quite poor, so you’d struggle with things like hot water showers and air conditioning in rooms, which could be stressful with a kid. And you’d have to take precautions with malaria, and I’m not sure how you’d do that with a baby. But if you google “Mozambique with children” you’ll find a lot of forum threads from people wanting to make the trip, so you’ll be able to pick up some tips from them.

Heading to Vilanculos in a couple of weeks and wanted to say thanks for this post. Definitely the most helpful guide I’ve found on the internet so far! Looking forward to getting out on the water now!

Ah, thank you so much, Agness! That means a lot :-)

This is so helpful! I’m going to be going to going to Tofo and Vilanculos next month. Can’t wait!

You’ll have an amazing time! :-)

Uugghh! This is so helpful, I’m traveling to Mozambique around January next year with my friend and am so glad I bumped into your post alot more things are clearer now. Thanks for writing.

Glad you found it helpful, Jojo! Have fun in Mozambique :-)

When are you going back there Lauren? And how would we get from Joberg to Tofo do you know?

Not sure when I’m returning, and your best bet is to fly to Maputo and onwards to Inhambane, or you can bus it to Maputo and bus it to Inhambane if you’re on a budget.

Great Blog! Thank you for sharing.

I’m in the midst of planning my solo trip to Mozambique. I’ve got 3 weeks, maybe 4. I’m aiming to do Maputo>Inhambane>Tofu Beach>Bazruto Archipelago>Mozambique Island. Do you think this is too much to fit into that time frame? I also want to take my time to learn how to dive (I’ve done it before but not gotten a certificate). I’m also cautions of going in November/December where it is the start of the rainy season (don’t want to wait until next year).

Many thanks,

this is awesome!! that looks so relaxing.. this will be definitely in my bucket list!! and i think i know where to go on my vacation!! lol thanks for sharing..

I highly recommend it :-)

Like in every similar country like this, Mozambique is beautiful for travelers and dirty for citizens. Great article and nice photos!

It was pretty dirty for me too… ;-) But I agree — I always try to keep my privilege in mind when visiting countries where the citizens are often struggling.

Awesome read , thank you x I have lived in Tofo with my husband and 3 sons for 13 years , having owned a Dive Centre , Liquid Dive, i am very knowledgable of the tourism stats and wages as well as the safety of living here and now with a private primary school in the area namely, Kingfisher Lake to offer the community i cannot stress how perfect Tofo is for a family or a lone traveller . In South Africa you live in fear constantly . I know of three families and friends who are relocating here from South Africa to Tofo within the next year because in my opinion it is the safest place in southern Africa . They have seen our lives here and how we live and want the same , the freedom , the beautiful beaches , the coconut trees etc . No threat of rape , murder or any other violent crime and the weather is just superb all year round with Humpbacks calving in our bay for 5 months of the year, Mantas , Whalesharks and great surfing and the warm water, we are living the dream…

Thank you so much for sharing, Cindy! I’m thrilled to hear how much you’re enjoying living in Tofo. I can’t wait to return… hopefully in 2018!

I lived in Maputo for 10 years and never had a serious incident as a blonde female, but boy was all the male attention annoying and unwanted! Only to say, not unsafe but definitely a hassle and I was over 45 at the time. I can only imagine if I was a cute YOUNG woman,

I’m glad you loved southern moz, but please come back! You missed the best part of the country! We live and work on Mozambique Island. Nacala and the region are not to be missed. We love our island and it is amazingly beautiful. It was once pretty trashy with dirty beaches but the municipal leaders and others like us have made great strides in cleaning things up, 2018 will be the 200th anniversary of the city of Ilha de Mozambique, so a great time to visit with Lots of things planned and great fanfare. And FYI. If you didn’t like Maputo, don’t spend more than a day in Nampula.

Thank you so much for sharing, Lynne! I desperately want to return to Mozambique, so I’m sure I’ll get there very soon. There’s so much more of the country I need to see :-)

Renamo been fighting Frelimo for many years civil war going on there enjoy

Not anywhere where tourists would go, though.

So in personal experience, once you leave the southern part of Mozambique there is little to no English. So in our future travels, should you choose to travel into the north, I HIGHLY recommend bringing someone who speaks Portuguese or learning some yourself. Please just be careful as you go north since it is not as designed for tourists and could be a much different feel to the trip. Having lived in the North and the south in country for over a year, I have experienced the great difference in needs of Portuguese levels. Also, the roads between the South and the North are extremely rough so flying, while a hassle, would quite possibly be a better option. I’m no tour guide or anything, just a missionary living among the locals who would LOVE to see tourism help these natives provide for their needs more consistently. As for politics, neutrality, friendliness and respect go a LONG way in this country, as I would assume in many other countries too. I hope you return soon. Mozambique is an incredible country indeed!

I’m actually taking Portuguese lessons at the moment! :-) Thanks so much for the kickass comment, Monica, and super-helpful advice — I’d love to return to Mozambique very soon.

Hi everyone! I’m from Moçambique (Mozambique), I can ensure that is a lovely e beautiful country. For people who are looking for some nature landscapes more like artigo beaches, I would recommend to go to the province of inhambane, there u will find praia do tofo, amazing view! Arquipélago de bazaruto, it’s very beautiful but a little high cost( for me the best of Mozambique) Praia da barra. For those who are looking for a more privacy I recommend ilha magaruque! At maputo province you can go to ponta de ouro, there you’ll find nic beaches! And if coming for South Africa (RSA) it relatively close from Durban! About the safety issues, it there some criminality like everywhere(not like the favelas at Brazil or a cartel city in Mexico) , but it nothing that Serious to make not go there! At the city of maputo people will sometimes stare at you just whit curiosity not intending to hurm you! If you come driving you may wanna make sure to have your drive license, passport, and everything also, course I have to admit! The police are a little annoying, and some times like bribes( give them any money) ! If you cannot speak Portuguese try to get help from another drivers at the roads but stay in the car! For know it’s all, and if you decide to come the Mozambique, you welcome! have fun, and enjoy nature! Plz do not disturb nature, you can enjoy nature without harming it!

Thank you so much for the amazing tips, Ivan! I really appreciate it.

Muito lindo …meu pai falava muito de Mozambique e tambem de Guinea…?

Would love to visit Guinea one day :-)

Pity you didn’t get to see the good side of Maputo, it’s an amazing city, did you go to the art studios? Mafalala? Even amongst the trash and mud there is so much soul.

I didn’t, but they’re definitely on my list for next time.

Wow, what an adventure. Tried to read and digest it all in one go, gave up, but came back to tackle it in smaller chunks at a time.

With 25 years of visiting and guiding and working in Mozambique (based in Johannesburg) etched into my Noddy Badge, I thought I knew it all, but have been enlightened and enriched by your narrative – thanks

Regarding Maputo, ah a difficult one… But wait! Perhaps a comparison with Cape Town may be revealing? I have also lived and studied and holidayed in Cape Town many times. It is simply stupidly stunning, mostly clean, has some crime (bad in parts), but quite a “First-world” feeling about the place. Right now? Well you could play “spot the locals” as it is very tourist trodden with prices to match.

Now to Maputo… Doesn’t have a mountain of the table, or any other, variety – also no beaches worth a tan and a swim. Very few tourists, though and so you may feel isolated and intimidated. Good, this is a sign that your “character”, resilience, receptivity and wisdom are expanding. Keep to that idiomatic “comfort zone” to much and you may as well have walked from home to a nearby bar.

My latest tour around Maputo was by bicycle and this had the effect of making me invisible to criminals, touts and corrupt cops. The real people, by contrast, embraced like a long lost relative and I made fifty half-hour friendships every day.

The street food and music are eclectic and very good and the history a day architecture are astounding.

Don’t dismiss and shun Maputo. Look up “Maputo a pé” on Facebook a day Google and tell Jane Flood that I sent you.

Mike http://www.mozguide.com

Such a shame that you hated Maputo. The city has a lot to offer (and good things!). Do not hesitate to get in touch with me when you come back and I’ll give you a tour of the cool places :) Great article!

Thanks for the offer! I appreciate that :-)

I would love to go to Bilene for my birthday but my anxiety is sky rocketing and funny enough I’m From South Africa so one would think I’d be brave enough, I’m not too sure of how one gets from Maputo to Bilene and I’d hate to get lost?

Thanks for the candid account of both Maputo and the coast. Its been very helpful in my planning and am now confident that I can travel there on my own! all the best from Stina

Thank you! Hope you have a wonderful trip :-)

it was an interesting read. My name is leul mamo and i am an Ethiopian from east Africa neighbor to Kenya, Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti and Somalia. and i plan to stay in maputo, mozambique for a little more than a month on a volunteering assignment by AIESEC there. It will be my first time to visit, do you think maputo is safe to go there ? since it will be my first time to travel outside Ethiopia….. thank you, woulds like to hear from you.

Hi Lauren, I’m amazed by the blog, I am Mozambican, was born in Inhambane. I used to climb those palm trees to get coconuts for preparing meals, the beaches were my font of food, used to fishing with lines and nets, sailed on those sailboats for long. Due to my profession had to leave that beautiful coastline to the northwest, exactly in Tete. This place is hot and nothing compared to Inhambane, Gaza, Sofala, Zambezia, Nampula and Cabo Delgado.

I’m happy to read your review of the south. I visited the north a few years ago, since my cousin has a large fisheries on Cahora Bassa Lake. I’m planning my next trip this December and have been trying to figure out the best way to travel.

I could fly to Harare and travel with them via Zimbabwe, but that’s what I did last time. I’m thinking about flying into jo-berg and renting a car or flying to Mozambique. I’m looking for more adventure a deeper locals experience than traveling with my well off relatives.

Do you have any thoughts? Might be good to fly into the north and then travel around by bus?

Hi Lauren — thank you for the write up! Would love it if you could share your itinerary. Happy travels! :)

Check out my post about how much it costs to travel in Mozambique — it’s covered there.

Hi how are you? You describe very good the country, you give also a lot of informations and tips. I live in Mozambique Island next time you should to come here, you ll love it maybe more then the south. Best wishes Kyra

Fantastic blog post! Thanks for sharing :)

One of the things I have always wanted to experience was diving with whale sharks and Tofo beach looks like the perfect location for that! However, the only thing holding me back is the malaria issue in Mozambique. I have read many blog posts and articles about this, but opinions vary a lot and I am finding it very had to make up my mind :/ I’m not sure if it is worth taking the risk…

I am a Nigerian and i have always loved the idea of travelling to a Portuguese speaking countries from my bucket lists that included Angola, Mozambique, Cabo Verde Island, Sao Tome & Principe and lastly, Equatorial Guinea but i found your post on Mozambique to be interesting and i would love to visit the country sooner. Thanks Lauren for the information

No problem! Hope you make it to Mozambique :-) A lot of the countries you listed are on my list of places to visit, too!

Great post! Thank you for sharing this. Definitely, I’m looking for a destination for my long trip next year. :) Mozambique is now written on my travel list.

Thank you so much. This article was really helpful. I wanted to do my Divemaster in Tofo and was initially so scared. The usual cliches you know :-) But your article really helped to prepare and see for myself that I should just go for it! I ended up staying half a year in Tof and worked as a Divemaster and really loved the time. Thank you Lauren!

That’s amazing! You’ve made my day :-) I’m so happy you ended up loving Tofo.

Wow! This is so informative, I will travel to Mozambique with my friends around April next year, and i was share your post with them. We can’t wait for it now.

Thank for your wonderful blog Lauren! We have been deep into planning a trip this Autumn to Tofo for the whale sharks and mantas and the Bazaruto islands for kitesurfing.

However, the terrible cyclone that has just blown through this week higher up the coast has wreaked such devastation that I am in two minds whether it might be insensitive to visit just for the fun of it on the one hand, although obviously tourist dollars would probably still be welcome….

Do you or any other readers have any opinions on this please? Thanks.

Love the post Lauren! You seemed to have really enjoyed your time visiting Mozambique. I actually didn’t know what to expect from this place as well as a destination but your post has shed some light on that. In fact, it’s making me think of traveling here the next time I get a vacation leave! I didn’t know this place was a hidden gem awaiting to be discovered. Happy travels!

Fab blog and some great advice too! We send volunteers to Tofu Beach to help with the marine conservation (scuba diving and snorkelling) When I first visited a couple of years ago with a Portuguese friend (who had been lived in Mozambique as a child) we were both so impressed with Tofu Beach and the whole vibe of the place. Definitely one of my favourite places!

I loved this article! I have lived in Zimbabwe for some time, because I have family there and I always wanted to go to Mozambique. But my family talked me out of it, saying that it was too dangerous for a white girl alone (which I hated, but I complied anyway). Im flying back to Zimbabwe this September and I plan to drive though Mozambique this time! Any advices on traveling by car?

Hi Veronica! Check out the DriveMoz group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/DriveMoz/about/ they have so many useful resources for driving in Mozambique and will be able to help you out better than I can :-) Hope you have a fabulous time in Mozambique! You’re going to love the beaches.

Hi Lauren. Firstly great content – well done! Secondly we are 2 well travelled (by air and overland) South African male friends in our 50s. We have been to Mozambique several times (you are 100% correct – best scuba diving in the Indian Ocean) but only as far as Vilankulos (South /Central) . We have now planned to travel over 3 weeks by fully camping kitted 4×4 to the far North coast and down the coast to central Mozambique in September this year . There are conflicting reports about safety . Do you have any thoughts/advice for us?

What a great article! I was just very curious which hotel you stayed in Tofo, as it looks amazing! Hope you want to share it with me! Greets, Karlijn

Baia Sonambula ! It was incredible!

Fantastic post. I am planning to visit Mozembique in November. Im from the UK, and can not find any information about visa on arrival. Can you shed some more light this?

Just turn up at the airport! They’ll give you the visa there at immigration.

Good morning, last week i visited my friend in Maputo and we drink a really tasteful drink. I dont remeber the name, but i loved so i need to find it. I looked at a list of energy drinks in Mozambique but cant find it. The can was really colourful, i think there were some leaves or flowers on it and it has a fruity taste. Does somebody know the name?

Is it Kabisa?

Really great post :) It increases the anticipation a lot. Thank you very much. So it seems you just did the coastline. What I read is that you can do some nice hiking in the mountains as well. Did you hear something about that? And did you do the north finally? What you can read about the north is quite worrying. I know what you mean when you say that people talk how unsafe the country is and in fact it isn’t true like that. But in the north, when you follow the newspaper or even the official sites like the Département fédéral des affaires étrangères from Switzerland (where I’m from), then they have huge problems between different groups. Not exactly against tourists, but still… What is your information about it?

Loved your reporting, sounds like quite an adventure! I have a question that might sound odd but I have heard that there are still many landmines along the coastline of Mozambique. Have you heard this too?

No. Mozambique was declared to be free of landmines in 2015.

HI — am hoping to line up with a relief/development group to do some recovery work in Mozambique and travel the length of the country from south to north into Tanzania. Roads reasonable enough to consider doing that?

Sorry your snorkeling experiences were so challenging. Here are a few tips to improve them: 1) splurge on your own equipment. Go to a dive shop for a mask that’s a proper fit (women have smaller faces than men & rental masks are usually cheap & stretched out from use, exacerbating the problem) & a tube with a valve that keeps water out (a BIG design improvement). Also lightweight fins that actually fit but u can skip them if you don’t have the luggage space; 2) use a bit of toothpaste on a new mask to prevent it from fogging (it worked better than frog spit & other anti-fog sprays we’ve used); 3) if u start to get water in your mask, pinch the nose to drain it (rather than lifting the whole mask up); 4) this is HUGE: if u get water in your tube, clamp down on the ridges of your snorkel tube & blow hard; that will clear it – so much more effective than just blowing; & 5) when entering the water, have your mask on & then put on your fins when it’s shoulder height (rather than walking in backwards wearing them).

Hey! Traveling to Mozambique in November and looking for a way of getting from Maputo to Tofo on the ground. Any chance you may know of a company that provides shared transportation so I could avoid the crowded, sweaty public tranpsortation?!?

Fatima’s shuttle would probably be the way to go! Either stay at Fatima’s in Maputo while you’re in town, or you can just call in while you’re in Maputo to book the transportation. Either that or ask your accommodation to book a private driver for you. I did this between Tofo and Vilanculos — I got the hotel owner in Tofo to book a driver for me, and then it was just me on my own in an air conditioned car, which was great! Although I think it was around $100 for the ride, so only something to do if you’re not on a tight budget!

Hello. You wrote about the price of the hotels are not really cheap. Is it in all the country? I have checked it in some hotel websites and the hotels are not as cheap as i thought. Could you tell me/us more about it. I was planning to visit it for more than 3 or 4 weeks but if the price is like this I think I’m going to change travel. Regards

I’m planning to go to Mozambique (also solo traveling) in October. I saw your chapas experience and might try it but was also wondering how you found the private transfers after if chapas prove to be a bit too much? Are there drivers waiting around to find someone or did you book it in advance?

We had the most awesome time in Mozambique. Especially remember fishing shrimps with locals and a dutch expat. Then cooking most delicious every peri-peri prawns. Drooling just thinking of it :P

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