Things to Do in Mozambique in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Mozambique
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak dry season means virtually guaranteed sunshine with only 25 mm (1 inch) of rain across the entire month - perfect for beach activities and diving with 30 m (98 ft) visibility
- Cooler temperatures averaging 22°C (72°F) make it comfortable for full-day activities without the oppressive heat of other months - locals call this 'tourist season' for good reason
- Southern right whales arrive at Tofo and Barra beaches in June for breeding season - this is the ONLY time of year to see these giants from shore
- Trade winds are strongest in June, creating ideal conditions for dhow sailing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing along the coast - wind speeds average 15-20 knots
Considerations
- High season pricing means accommodation costs 40-60% more than January-April, with beachfront lodges charging $200-400 per night versus $120-250 in low season
- International flight prices peak in June as it coincides with Northern Hemisphere summer holidays - expect to pay $1,200-1,800 from Europe versus $800-1,200 in shoulder months
- Popular beaches like Tofo and Vilanculos get crowded with South African school holiday visitors, especially after June 16th Youth Day weekend
Best Activities in June
Bazaruto Archipelago Marine Safaris
June offers the clearest waters of the year with 25-30 m (82-98 ft) visibility for snorkeling and diving. The dry season means flat seas perfect for dhow sailing between islands. Dugong spotting chances are highest now as seagrass beds are most accessible. Water temperature is perfect at 24°C (75°F) - warm enough without wetsuit but not uncomfortably hot.
Tofo Whale Watching Expeditions
June marks the arrival of southern right whales, humpback whales, and whale sharks. This is the ONLY month you can reliably see whales from shore at Tofo Beach. Boat trips have 90% success rates versus 20% in other months. The calm, clear conditions make for comfortable 3-4 hour excursions with excellent photography opportunities.
Gorongosa National Park Wildlife Drives
June's dry season concentrates animals around permanent water sources, making game viewing exceptional. Morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) mean comfortable 6am starts for peak animal activity. The park's restoration means elephant, lion, and antelope numbers are at their highest since the 1970s. Grass is shorter now, improving visibility.
Maputo Cultural Walking Tours
June's cooler temperatures make walking Maputo's neighborhoods comfortable throughout the day. The dry season means outdoor markets and street art tours proceed without interruption. This is when locals spend more time outdoors, so cultural interactions are more authentic. Evening temperatures around 20°C (68°F) are perfect for sunset tours.
Cahora Bassa Lake Fishing Charters
June is peak season for tiger fish as lower water levels concentrate fish in deeper channels. The dry season means access roads to remote fishing spots are passable. Early morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) make dawn fishing sessions comfortable. This is when local fishing competitions happen, indicating peak conditions.
Ponta do Ouro Dolphin Interactions
June offers the calmest seas and clearest waters for dolphin swimming tours. Bottlenose dolphins are most active in these cooler water temperatures. The lack of rain means consistent daily departures and better underwater visibility for swimming alongside pods. Success rates exceed 85% in June versus 50% in rainy months.
June Events & Festivals
Maputo International Music Festival
This annual festival showcases marrabenta, traditional Mozambican music, alongside contemporary African artists. Held at various venues across Maputo including the Cultural Centre. Features 3 days of performances, workshops, and cultural exhibitions. Local and regional artists perform alongside international acts.
Festa de São João Beach Celebrations
Traditional Portuguese-influenced festival celebrated along the coast, particularly in Maputo, Beira, and Inhambane. Features beach bonfires, traditional dancing, and local food stalls. Locals jump over small fires for good luck and enjoy sardine feasts. Most authentic celebrations happen in local neighborhoods rather than tourist areas.