With its palm tree-fringed coastline and remote archipelagos, dreamy Mozambique gets top marks for being a tropical ‘island’ getaway. Browse these Mozambique holiday packages, and you’ll soon discover that our fascinating neighbour has much more to offer than just a ‘fly and flop’ beach experience. Add to the mix a melting pot of Afro-Portuguese culture and cuisine, as well as marine parks and unique historical attractions, and you’ll discover adventure and something just that little bit different, in one-of-a-kind Mozambique. There’s something for everyone – from honeymooning couples and families to the solo adventurer or business traveller looking to tack on a few days of holiday to their business trip.
Mozambique offers incredibly diverse regions of interest.
For an easy beach getaway not too far from Maputo, head to the beach resort of Bilene in the Gaza province in southern Mozambique. Bilene hugs the famous Uembje Lagoon and is renowned for its water sports.
Stay in Maputo and soak up the special Afro-Portuguese architecture, culture and traditions. A guided tour is the best way to get a local’s perspective into the city.
For a tranquil beach retreat, head to the Bazaruto or Quirimbas Archipelago, Anvil Bay or enjoy a day trip to Inhaca, Santa Maria and Portuguese Island.
You can do as much or as little as you please in diverse Mozambique. For a dose of culture and delicious treats, head to a local market. Feast on freshly caught prawns or local cashew nuts and snap up some beautiful, locally-made souvenirs to take home, such as arts and crafts and the colourful capulanas (sarongs). On the Bazaruto Archipelago, spot whale sharks and enjoy all manner of water sports. And come sundown, nothing beats a cruise on a traditional dhow, sails billowing in the wind as you head into the sunset.
South Africans do not require a visa to visit Mozambique for stays not exceeding 30 days. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the intended date of departure.
Maputo is an hour's flight from Johannesburg. If you prefer travelling by road, the Maputo-to-Ponta do Ouro road boasts Africa's largest suspension bridge (Katembe Bridge). Driving in Maputo can be stressful for those not used to the traffic and navigating unfamiliar roads so consider taking hotel shuttles and hiring drivers.
The official currency is the Mozambican metical (MZN). South African Rands are accepted throughout most of the country.
Portuguese is the official language and English is widely spoken in the popular tourist areas.
Accommodation
Laidback Mozambique offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you want to kick back with a private plunge pool and a butler at your beck and call or enjoy the privacy and independence of self-catering accommodation, tailoring your days as you please, the country boasts a good variety of accommodation.
There are stunning high-end resorts, mid-range accommodation, wonderful self-catering options and, if you’re on a bit of a budget, backpackers and guesthouses as well.