Mozambique (Moçambique) is a country on the Indian Ocean coast of Southern Africa. It is bordered by South Africa to the south, Tanzania to the north and has inland borders with Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Swaziland. Mozambique's eastern coastline along the Indian Ocean is more than 1,000km long. Mozambique is a fantastic destination for scuba divers, fishermen, sailors and beach lovers. Mozambique is absolutely huge and getting between major destinations can take days not hours. Roads are generally in poor condition, especially when compared to South Africa, making the country a popular 4x4 self-drive destination.
Basic facts
Full name Republic of Mozambique (formerly Mocambique)
Capital Maputo
Independence 1975
Time GMT + 2 hours
Population 19,406,703 (July 2006 est.)
Currency METICAL (MZM)
Area 801,590 km2
Language Portuguese (official) and English widely spoken
Geography & Landscape
Mozambique has 10 provinces that can be grouped into the following three regions:
Northern Mozambique - encompasses Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa-provinces
Central Mozambique - is home to Manica, Sofala, Tete and Zambézia provinces
Southern Mozambique - is made up of Gaza, Inhambane and Maputo provinces
Mozambique has vast areas of fertile land, which can produce enough food for the nation, as well as exports. Maize, sugar cane, tobacco, rice, tea, and citrus fruits are all grown. But the country’s natural wealth is not fully exploited. Mineral resources such as gold, gemstones and bauxite are still to be tapped. The 2,500km coastline produces marine products, especially prawns, which are the country’s largest single export.
Many sizeable rivers, including the Zambezi and Limpopo, flow through Mozambique to the sea. Africa’s largest hydro-electric power dam, the Cabora Bassa, lies in the north-west. Although there’s plenty of water, drought is common in the south of the country.
Climate
Summer : October – March
Winter : April to September
The climate varies in the different regions of the country, but generally the inland areas are slightly cooler, although more humid than along the coast in the rainy season. Winter is the dry season lasting from April to September, and is the best time to visit the country. The southern parts of the country are generally drier and less tropical than the north, with temperatures along the coast averaging 80ºF (27ºC). The rainy season coincides with the heat and humidity from October to March, with average coastal temperatures of 88ºF (31ºC).
When to go & what to bring
The best times to visit are between May and November, when both rainfall and temperatures are at their lowest. It's also possible to travel during the early part of the warmer, rainy season from November to January (though be prepared for high temperatures, especially in January). If possible, avoid the height of the rains - from about February to March/April - as many roads become impassable and flooding is common in the south and centre. Around Easter, Christmas/New Year's and in August, Mozambique's southern coastal resorts become overrun with the vacationing neighbours and advance bookings are highly advisable
The type of equipment you need will depend on your activities. If visiting the game parks you should take binoculars and a good camera. Remember to buy quality film before you leave home. Also, take a wide brimmed hat and plenty of sunscreen. For the rainy season a small folding umbrella will come in handy. Should you plan to go fishing, a collapsible rod is a good idea.
Attractions and National Parks
The south-eastern African country of Mozambique has a lot to offer travellers from its local cultures and colonial architecture to its inspiring landscape and warmth. Bordering the Indian Ocean on the east, Mozambique boasts gorgeous beaches and islands. From the developed capital city of Maputo to the charming coastal town of Pemba, Mozambique is a great vacation destination!
Bazaruto Archipelago
The Bazaruto Archipelago consists of five idyllic islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. The Archipelago is truly one of the most beautiful destinations on the African continent. The area is now protected as a conservation area and national park, including the coral reefs surrounding the islands, making it the only official marine reserve in the country. The park is one of the largest in the Indian Ocean and a crucial achievement in global marine conservation. A nearly untouched paradise on earth, the archipelago has earned its reputation as the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean'.
Ponta d’Ouro
Ponta d'Ouro is a popular destination for South African divers and surfers in southern Maputo Province. There is a small village, but it is mostly overshadowed by the tourist camps. One of the most perfect waves in the world, when it works that is. And keep an eye out for sharks.
The Dolphin experience is not to be missed. Run by a team of passionate conservationists, the chance to swim with the dolphins will change your life! Learning more about how they are threatened in the wild will also broaden your understanding of the need to protect these magnificent creatures.
Pemba
Pemba is renowned for its Portuguese colonial architecture, and is a prime destination for water sports and diving enthusiasts as a coral reef lies close to the shore. Pemba has increasingly become a tourist destination, particularly for upper-middle class Mozambicans and South Africans, and international flights and new facilities are emerging steadily. The climate is tropical humid. Average annual temperature ranges from a minimum of 22 to a maximum of 32 degrees Celsius.
Vilanculos
It's a popular beach hangout and the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of islands and Mozambique's only underwater national park. The dry season is from May to September with temperatures around 20 degrees. Bring a sweater for the evenings. Activities available: horse riding on golden beaches, dhow sailing safaris, game fishing, and scuba diving, snorkelling.
Inhaca
Just across the bay from the port of Maputo is Inhaca Island, an attractive holiday destination for anyone who wants to savour the laid-back rhythms of a small, semitropical, Indian Ocean island. On the fringe of the tropics, it has a wealth of breathtaking beaches, coral reefs and exotic marine life on offer. The island is easily accessible from Maputo by a daily scheduled boat service, or a short flight.
Health requirements
Remember to get malaria prophylactics before entering Mozambique. Take precautionary measures to prevent contact with mosquitoes, like : sleep under a bed net or in a room/tent with mosquito proofing, spray your accommodation with insecticide; make use of a mosquito repelling lotion or stick; and wear long sleeved clothing, trousers and socks when outside at night.
Compulsory vaccination: Yellow fever.
Recommended vaccinations: Tetanus, Hepatitus A and Meningitis.
It is advisable to obtain medical insurance prior to arrival. Medical services within Maputo All main towns have well-stocked pharmacies, but it is recommended that you bring any medicines you may require.
Visa requirements
All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival.
Please heck with your nearest Mozambique Consulate for up-to-date information depending on your passport nationality. The onus is on the traveler to ensure all visa requirements are met.
Tipping
Tipping in Mozambique is not customary, although in tourist areas a tip of 10% is expected.
Souvenirs
Local crafts and indigenous art can be purchased from markets in the cities and tourist areas. These include masks, carvings and ornaments made of wood, soapstone, malachite and wire, as well as pottery, paintings and basket ware. A lot of what you will see will be tacky souvenirs, but quite often you will find unique works of art. Avoid purchasing natural items like ivory as it is illegal to export these without a license.
