Your Questions Answered on Travel to Mozambique.

Frequently Asked Questions for your Holiday to Mozambique

Get all the information you need about Mozambique here and find all the frequently asked questions on travel to Mozambique answered. We cover all the inside information about safety, visas, border posts, the best time to travel and the best deals on the finest beach resorts and lodges. Ask us anything and we have an answer – what the weather is like, where to see whales, money issues and where to go with a family.  What is the food like, is there malaria and where can you go on safari too?

• Why choose a holiday in Mozambique?

Mozambique features some truly magnificent Indian Ocean beaches, completely untouched by mass tourism and far from the madding crowds. Add to this excellent snorkelling and scuba-diving, charming boutique lodges and magical sunsets. The gorgeous islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago rival the best islands of the Maldives and Mauritius combined! Mozambique is also an emerging safari destination boasting world-class lodges and Gorongosa National Park is one of Mozambique’s flagship conservation areas with a visionary restoration project in place.  Go and see the top cultural and historical hotspot too on Ilha de Mozambique and Ibo Island.

• Is it safe to travel to Mozambique?

Yes, Mozambique is considered safe in the southern areas. Reported unrest is all north of Nacala towards the Quirimbas Islands. Tourism and travel to Mozambique have not been affected in popular tourist areas from the south at Ponta Mamoli to Maputo, Vilanculos, Inhambane, and Beira. Many foreign countries warn against travel to the districts of Mueda, Nangade, Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, Muidumbe, Meluco, Macomia, Quissanga and Ibo in Cabo Delgado province, including the islands off the coast, due to attacks by groups with links to Islamist extremism. There are no direct flights between Palma town and Maputo and it is not advisable to travel there by road.

• What is an eco-lodge and can I find eco-lodge accommodation in Mozambique?

Eco lodges are tourism accommodation venues built in tune with the environment, leaving little or no impact on Mother Nature and taking the local communities into consideration. Ecotourism is about people and the planet so tourists who choose to travel sustainably choose ecotourism destinations to contribute to the conservation of the landscapes and upliftment of the local communities who always lived there. Yes, Mozambique offers a range of beautiful eco-lodges built to enhance the natural surroundings and to teach people about biodiversity, essential for our survival. They use solar energy, save water and energy, recycle and reduce waste and use electric vehicles or simply promote natural activities like hiking and spearfishing and catch and release fishing and saving the whales and dolphins.

• How do I get to Mozambique?

You can fly into Maputo International Airport (MPM), or cross into the country by road or by boat. Southern Mozambique can be accessed from Maputo with daily flights from Johannesburg.  The Bazaruto Archipelago is easily accessible from Johannesburg with flights to Vilanculos the gateway to the islands, and the Kruger area with direct flights three times a week. Northern Mozambique is also accessible via Johannesburg, and other Mozambican hubs such as Maputo, Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam. So, it is a possible add-on to an East African safari. Once into the major hubs, you are transferred to your lodge by road, boat or aircraft.

• Do I need a visa to travel to Mozambique?

It depends on your nationality. Some nationalities are eligible for visa-free travel, while others require a visa. From the 1st May 2023, nationals of 29 countries are now exempt from the requirement to present a visa when travelling to Mozambique for tourism or business reasons. When you arrive at the Mozambique border, all that’s expected is to pay a nominal fee of 10 USD. Let’s also remember that there’s a visa waiver for 14 SADC countries visiting Mozambique as of 1 May 2023. So South Africans and other SADC members can enter Mozambique without a VISA for up to 3 months/90 days. We are very also excited to announce the launch of the new e-Visa Online Platform for pre-approved visas at the click of a button.

• What documents do I need to go to Mozambique?

When entering Mozambique by car you need these documents:

• A passport valid for 6 months after your date of return.
• Unabridged birth certificates for minors travelling with you.
• A valid driver’s license.
• Original vehicle registration papers or a SAPS certified copy not older than 3 months. If the vehicle is still being financed, then get a letter from the financial institution giving you permission to drive it to Mozambique.
• Compulsory 3rd party liability insurance certificate.

• When is the best time to travel to Mozambique?

Mozambique is an all-year-round destination. Many tourists agree that the best time to visit Mozambique is from May to October when the weather is dry and warm. However, the rainy seasons are also the least expensive time to travel and rain is often in the form of tropical downpours usually in the later afternoon and evening. The weather is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round and a rainy season from December to March.

• Is it possible to go scuba diving in Mozambique?

Yes, it is possible to go scuba diving in Mozambique, with some of the best dive sites being in the Bazaruto Archipelago. Other dive sites include Barra Beach, Tofo, Machangulo, Inhambane, Vilanculos, Ponta Mamoli and Ponta d’Ouro.

• What is the food like in Mozambique?

Mozambique’s culinary scene is a fusion of flavours and influences. The country’s coastal location means seafood takes centre stage, with dishes featuring prawns, crab, lobster, and a variety of fish. The famous peri-peri sauce, made from fiery African bird’s eye chili peppers, adds a deliciously spicy kick to many dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Mozambique’s traditional dish, the fragrant and flavourful Matapa made from cassava leaves, peanuts, coconut milk, and spices – often served with rice and fresh seafood. Remember to be food and water-wise in Mozambique.

• What is the best way to get around in Mozambique?

The best way to get around Mozambique depends on your destination and travel style, but options include flights both scheduled and charter, car rental, public transport, and private transfers.

• What language is spoken in Mozambique?

The official language of Mozambique is Portuguese, everyone speaks English and many locals also speak Bantu languages such as Swahili and Xichangana.

• Is Mozambique a malaria area?

Yes, Mozambique has malaria and malaria risk is high all year round. It’s important to get your doctor’s advice before travelling and to take malaria precautions. Cover up in loose clothing with long sleeves and pants in the evenings and use insect repellents at all times, sleeping under a mosquito net. Get suitable antimalarial tablets to travel with from your doctor.

• What is the currency in Mozambique?

The currency is the Metical (MZN) -or Meticais in its plural form, but if you’re travelling in southern Mozambique, both the South African Rand and US Dollar are accepted. If you’re travelling in the north, it’s best to carry US Dollars.

• Can I use my credit card in Mozambique?

Credit card usage is limited in Mozambique except in resorts and tourist hubs, so it is recommended to have cash on hand and to use ATMs as needed.

• What is the electrical voltage in Mozambique?

The electrical voltage in Mozambique is 220V, with the plugs being of the round two-pin type.

• Is Mozambique a family-friendly destination?

Yes! Mozambique is the perfect destination to find endless white beaches, warm ocean waters and plenty to do for children of all ages. Water sports, adventure activities and beach games keep kids running all day, falling into bed exhausted at the end of a healthy sunny day. Plenty of family-friendly accommodations in the form of spacious chalets, bungalows, campsites, hotel rooms and resorts offer great rates for families with kids of all ages.

Frequently asked questions about Mozambique are answered here. Travel to Mozambique and enjoy your holiday with us.