Mozambique is one of Africa’s rising stars. Outside the frenetic pace of the capital, life in Mozambique moves at a leisurely pace. Incredible coastal beaches and islands deliver barefoot relaxation in spades and the game reserves and national parks are some of the most remote and undiscovered on the continent.
Mozambique is one of Africa’s genuine hot-spots, and yet remains unspoilt.
Maputo hums with life and is a fun and chaotic melting pot of African, Portuguese and middle-eastern influences.
The main drawcard are the islands and beaches, particularly around the archipelago of Bazaruto in the centre, where you can find some of the best diving in the world and some truly remote and idyllic, intimate lodges. The deep-sea fishing is spectacular in the right season.
For those seeking the ultimate adventure safari – be sure to include a few nights on safari at Gorongosa National Park. Regarded as ‘Africa’s greatest wildlife restoration story’. Once known as ‘Serengeti of the south’ – after years of careful re-wilding, it now has over 100,000 large animals. The new hotspot for safari enthusiasts.
Time difference: 2 hrs +GMT. Although some island hotels have ‘island time’ to maximise on the daylight hours
Visa: You can travel without a visa to Mozambique for tourism or business for up to 30 days.
On arrival, you must be able to show border control a written invitation from your host, or a confirmed hotel reservation, and a return or onward air ticket. You must pay a fee of 650 Mozambican meticais using cash or card.
Health: You are advised to take anti-malaria pills for your trip. No specific vaccinations are required to enter. We do recommend you visit a travel health clinic prior to departure to make sure your standard travel vaccinations are up to date.
Language: Official language is Portuguese, but they do speak english in all the main tourist areas.
How to get around: We usually recommend flying on scheduled or shared light aircrafts from area to area. We do not recommend self driving.
How to get there: Our clients normally use Mozambique as an add-on to a safari in Southern Africa, so therefore we would recommend flying from Johannesburg to Vilanculos in order to access the Bazaruto archipelago. From there, it is either a road transfer or a short helicopter flight to one of the islands.
Who does it suit? Mozambique suits those after an un spoilt beach experience, staying in small, boutique style hotels. There are no large resorts. It is ideal for honeymooners, families, couples, divers.
Although Mozambique is a year round destination, there are certain months that lend themselves better than others. The most popular months for the beaches are from April – October, when it is cooler and less chance of rain. Daytime temperatures vary from mid 20’s – late 20’s. From December – March, it is hot with the occasional chance of short, heavy thunderstorms generally followed by hours of sunshine. Daytime temperatures are in the mid 30’s. Note January/February is cyclone season in Southern Mozambique, so best to avoid the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Ideal for a beach flop on its own. Or a great Bush&Beach option with Gorongosa National Park. Or makes the perfect add-on to a safari in Southern Africa (Zimbabwe, Botwana, Zambia, Nambia, South Africa) with direct flights to/from Johannesburg.
Get in touch and let us start planning your special trip… info@sarahjamestravel.com
