Mozambique is one of Africa's up-and-coming hotspots with stunning beaches, excellent diving and magical offshore islands. Mozambique has incredibly diverse and scenic landscapes and the locals are renowned for being the friendliest people in Africa. There are no direct flights from the United States to Mozambique, however there are a number of connecting flights from Johannesburg in South Africa amongst other African cities. It is also possible to drive from Johannesburg to Mozambique (only for the more adventurous at heart).
Getting to Mozambique
There are no direct flights from the United States to Mozambique, however there are a number of connecting flights from Johannesburg in South Africa amongst other African cities. It is also possible to drive from Johannesburg to Mozambique (only for the more adventurous at heart).
Safety and Security within Mozambique
Safeguard and avoid displaying valuables and cash. Deposit them in a hotel safe where possible. Keep some money, notarized copies of your passport, valid visas and other important documents in a separate place to the originals. Crime increases during holiday periods and you should take extra precautions at these times.
Mozambican Climate
The climate varies in the different regions of the country, but generally the inland areas are slightly cooler. Winter is the dry season lasting from April to September, and some argue 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 80°F (27°C). See more on regional weather patterns by looking at our weather-map guide.
Mozambican visa requirements
All foreign nationals require visas to enter into Mozambique. It is recommend that you apply for your Mozambique visa at least 2 weeks before your travel date.
Mozambican People
Most Mozambicans are of Bantu origin. There are also European and Asian minorities. There are many religions in Mozambique. Mozambique has three main cities, Maputo, Beira and Nampula. Here the rich can afford luxury houses, expensive cars and high-class restaurants. However, most people live in rural areas, following a more traditional way of life.
Mozambican Currency
Currency in Mozambique is the metical (MZM). 1US$ = Approximately 26 MZM. For current rates click http://www.x-rates.com
Health
Diseases caused by unsanitary conditions are common throughout the country, and untreated water should be considered unsafe to drink. Please note that Mozambique is a malaria-prone area and malarial prophylaxis is essential when traveling to this country. Please consult your doctor before your trip.
The Festival of Hope’s goal was to raise awareness throughout the country about the risk of HIV. The festival usually allures local spectators, and attendance has reached over 35,000 with people from bordering countries such as South Africa and Swaziland. This exciting event usually attracts a crowd of well-liked music groups from southern Africa and places all around the world.
Whether you are looking from a helicopter or snorkeling up close, there is no denying the beauty of the water at Bazaruto Archipelago.
The Bazaruto Archipelago is famous for exceptional diving, and amazing reefs that both experts and amateurs can navigate through. The sea life is incredible and visitors always catch a glimpse of some unique wildlife.
The Magical Mystery 3 Stage Mountain Bike Event is a bikers paradise. Each participant treks through the mountain and on the beach while passing by some of the most gorgeous views in the whole country. Four full invigorating days of biking will leave participants feeling accomplished and more appreciative of nature’s beauty.
In 1773, Ibo Island was declared the capital of Cabo Delgado. It was this year, on June 25th, that the first Kueto Siriwala festival was held. Preparations toward this festival now known as the Ibo Festival start as early as the beginning of the year.
Fresh seafood, coconut rice, tropical fruit – are all abundant. Anthems are sung. Bicycles race for fun. Canoes and traditional sailing dhows compete on the still waters. School children present their poetry and plays to the crowds. Traditional dancing takes place – all originally from Ibo Island. A sense of community penetrates you. A sense of belonging surrounds you. Your heart sinks into this festival, a festival that brings families home. You find yourself, a visitor to the island, doing a traditional dance with abandon. “Nyoka,” it is called, a snake like dance.
15:00 hours – everyone to the soccer field. You experience soccer in the humblest circumstances; no prestige, commerce or fame. It is just soccer, on an almost forgotten island, on the edge of the world. You sit at the main Ibo Island pitch near the star fort. You sit amongst hundreds of local supporters. You stand in support of your Ibo Island team.
The Prawn Run is a relaxed annual bicycle ride perfect for bike fanatics. Beginning in Nelspruit and White River, following down to the South Africa / Mozambique border, and then ending from Ressano Garcia to Matola.
Riders can decide between any of three units to cycle with (slow, medium and fast) so each range of intensity can take part. All kinds of bikes are welcome.
The Avante Mozambique! Festival is a celebration just for the tourists. It’s one of the best-attended educational events in the country, with invitations sent out all over the world. This festival helps put Mozambique on the map internationally and invites other countries to recognize them as a contributor to the world market.
The main festivities focus on customary arts, expressive arts, films, music and performers.
Ricky Jacobs hosts the much-anticipated yearly marlin tournament. This tournament is reserved for serious fishermen only as it takes place over a ten- day period. The men only reel in the big ones and in order to keep the fish they catch it has to weigh over 700lbs.
2005 marked the start of the Kinani, a biennial global celebration that supports up and coming dances living in Maputo. In 5 years and after 3 editions, Kinani has discovered a position among the great platform of contemporary dance on the worldwide stage. The Kinani festival connects music and dancing to enthusiasts.

