Where to Stay in Mozambique
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Mozambique
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The capital region offers Mozambique's most developed accommodation infrastructure, from international business hotels to colonial-era guesthouses. Maputo city provides urban convenience with restaurants and nightlife, while nearby beach towns like Ponta do Ouro and Macaneta offer coastal escapes within easy reach of the capital.
Home to Tofo Beach and the Bazaruto Archipelago, this region is Mozambique's most popular tourist destination. Tofo offers backpacker-friendly diving lodges and mid-range resorts, while Bazaruto features exclusive island retreats. The historic town of Inhambane provides cultural accommodation options in a charming colonial setting.
A transitional region between Maputo and Inhambane, Gaza Province sees mostly transit traffic along the EN1 highway. Accommodation is primarily functional roadside lodges and guesthouses in towns like Xai-Xai and Chokwé, with some beach options at Praia do Xai-Xai catering to weekend visitors from South Africa.
Centered on the port city of Beira, Mozambique's second-largest city, this region serves as a gateway to central Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Accommodation is primarily business-oriented in Beira, with emerging beach options along the coast. Gorongosa National Park offers safari lodges for wildlife enthusiasts.
Inland provinces along the Zimbabwe and Malawi borders, these regions offer limited tourist accommodation focused on transit points and border towns. Chimoio and Tete provide functional business lodges, while the Cahora Bassa Dam area has some lakeside options. Accommodation is generally basic and geared toward regional business travelers.
Central coastal province with limited tourism development outside the historic Ilha de Moçambique, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island offers unique heritage accommodation in restored colonial buildings, while Quelimane provides basic business hotels. This region remains off the beaten path with authentic, undeveloped coastal areas.
Northern Mozambique's most populated province, centered on Nampula city with its business hotels and transit lodges. The province includes access to Ilha de Moçambique and emerging beach destinations along the coast. Accommodation ranges from basic city guesthouses to coastal lodges, with infrastructure improving along main routes.
Home to the stunning Quirimbas Archipelago, this region features some of Mozambique's most exclusive accommodation. Luxury eco-lodges on private islands cater to high-end travelers seeking pristine beaches and world-class diving. The mainland town of Pemba offers more accessible mid-range and budget options as a diving hub, though security concerns in northern areas require checking current conditions.
Mozambique's largest and most remote province, featuring the vast Niassa Special Reserve. Accommodation is extremely limited, consisting mainly of basic guesthouses in Lichinga and exclusive safari camps within the reserve. This region is for adventurous travelers seeking wilderness experiences far from tourist infrastructure.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Mozambique
International hotel chains have limited presence in Mozambique, concentrated mainly in Maputo with properties from Southern Sun, Radisson, and Pestana. Regional African chains like Protea Hotels (Marriott) operate in major cities. The market is dominated by independent operators, with South African-owned beach lodges particularly common along the southern coast. Business hotels in provincial capitals are typically locally owned with variable standards.
Locally-owned pensãos and residencials offer basic accommodation in towns and cities, typically family-run with simple rooms and shared facilities. Beach lodges and camps along the coast range from rustic backpacker setups to comfortable mid-range properties, many built in traditional thatch-and-timber style. Guesthouses (casas de hóspedes) provide budget accommodation in most towns, while self-catering chalets are popular along the southern coast. Many properties are run by Mozambicans of Portuguese descent or recent South African immigrants.
Mozambique's signature accommodation is the beach lodge or 'eco-lodge,' typically featuring thatched chalets (rondavels) with open-air bathrooms, built from natural materials and designed to blend with coastal environments. Private island lodges in the Bazaruto and Quirimbas archipelagos offer exclusive barefoot luxury experiences. Historic pousadas in restored colonial buildings can be found in Maputo and Ilha de Moçambique. Dhow safaris with overnight beach camping provide authentic coastal experiences. Community-run lodges are emerging in areas like Gorongosa, offering cultural immersion alongside wildlife viewing.
Booking Tips for Mozambique
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Many beach lodges and island resorts, especially in northern Mozambique, are not well represented on international booking platforms. Contacting properties directly via email often yields better rates and more flexible arrangements. Direct booking also allows you to arrange transfers and meal plans, which are crucial in remote locations where dining options are limited.
Many coastal properties operate on half-board or full-board basis, particularly in remote areas. Always confirm whether meals, transfers, and activities are included in quoted rates, as these can significantly impact total costs. Island lodges typically include all meals and boat transfers, while beach camps may charge separately for each component.
Northern Cabo Delgado Province has experienced security issues since 2017. Always check current travel advisories before booking accommodation in northern areas, particularly beyond Pemba. Some luxury island lodges continue operating safely, but mainland areas may be affected. Reputable properties will provide honest assessments of current conditions.
Many properties, especially beach lodges and island resorts, require substantial deposits (50-100%) at booking, often non-refundable or with strict cancellation terms. International bank transfers are common for remote properties without credit card facilities. Budget for cash payments in rural areas where card machines are unreliable or non-existent.
South African tour operators offer package deals to Mozambique combining accommodation, transfers, and sometimes flights at competitive rates. These packages can be more economical than booking separately and handle logistics that can be challenging for independent travelers, particularly for island destinations requiring boat transfers.
Power outages are frequent throughout Mozambique. Confirm that properties have reliable generators or solar power, especially if you require consistent electricity for medical devices or work. In remote areas, also verify water supply arrangements, as some properties have limited fresh water availability during dry season.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Mozambique
Book 3-6 months ahead for May through November, especially for popular beach destinations like Tofo, Vilankulo, and Bazaruto. Island lodges in the Quirimbas Archipelago require 6-12 months advance booking for peak season. South African school holidays (June-July, September, December) demand even earlier booking as regional tourism surges during these periods.
April and early December offer more flexibility, with 4-8 weeks advance booking usually sufficient for most destinations. Prices drop slightly from peak season while weather remains generally favorable. This period offers good value, particularly for beach accommodation, though some properties close for maintenance during April.
January through March sees lowest demand due to heat, humidity, and cyclone risk. Many properties, especially in the south, offer significant discounts (30-50% off peak rates), and last-minute booking is usually possible. However, some island lodges close entirely during February-March, and rough seas can disrupt transfers. This period suits budget travelers and those chasing whale sharks.
For Mozambique, booking 2-3 months ahead covers most situations outside peak periods. Beach destinations require more advance planning than inland areas. Properties with limited rooms (particularly island lodges) need earliest booking. Budget travelers can often find availability with shorter notice, especially in towns and along the southern coast where accommodation supply is greater.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Mozambique