Things to Do in Mozambique

About Mozambique

Mozambique stretches along Africa's southeastern coast with white beaches, coral reefs, and the remnants of Portuguese rule. The Indian Ocean laps against mangrove channels where dhows still sail—just as they have for centuries. Marrabenta music plays in the streets. The Bazaruto Archipelago draws divers and sailors. Gorongosa National Park offers serious wildlife. Arabic traders, Portuguese colonizers, and indigenous groups all left their mark, and you'll see it in the architecture, hear it in the language, taste it in the food. Peri-peri prawns cook on grills at beachside spots while humpback whales breach offshore. Locals greet visitors with 'Bem-vindo' in Portuguese or phrases in Makhuwa and Tsonga. The hospitality is real. Luxury lodges operate near traditional fishing villages—a contrast that works. This is the kind of place that hasn't been overrun yet. Worth seeing now.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Domestic flights via LAM Airlines connect major destinations; book early as schedules change frequently. For coastal areas, arrange 4WD transfers through lodges. Avoid driving at night due to poor road conditions and unmarked hazards.

Money: Carry US dollars in small denominations for tips and rural areas. ATMs in Maputo and major towns dispense meticais but often run out of cash. Credit cards accepted only at upmarket hotels and restaurants.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly away from beach resorts, covering shoulders and knees. Learn basic Portuguese greetings like 'Bom dia' (good morning). Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities and markets.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Seafood is excellent but choose busy restaurants with high turnover. Try local specialties like matapa (cassava leaves) and fresh coconut water from street vendors using clean utensils.

When to Visit

Mozambique's tropical climate offers distinct seasons that dramatically affect both experiences and costs. The dry season (May-October) brings perfect weather with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C, minimal rainfall (less than 25mm monthly), and excellent diving conditions with 30+ meter visibility. This peak period sees accommodation prices increase 40-60%, especially June-August when Southern African school holidays coincide with perfect weather. November-April marks the wet season with higher temperatures (25-32°C), humidity reaching 80%, and rainfall averaging 100-200mm monthly. While cyclone risk exists December-March, this off-peak period offers 30-50% savings on accommodation and spectacular bird watching as migrants arrive. March-May provides the sweet spot: fewer crowds, 25-30% lower prices, and improving weather conditions. Key festivals include Independence Day (June 25) and the colorful Festival of Our Lady of Conception on Island of Mozambique (December 8). Divers should visit May-September for whale sharks and manta rays, while fishing ensoiasts prefer September-December for marlin season. Budget travelers benefit most from visiting April-May or October-November, avoiding both peak prices and heaviest rains while enjoying pleasant temperatures and reasonable accommodation rates.