Is it safe to travel to Mozambique now?

Travel to Mozambique FAQ

All questions answered and is it safe to travel to Mozambique now? 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?

Get all the information you need about a Mozambique holiday here and find all the frequently asked questions on travel to Mozambique answered. Mozambique is an idyllic holiday destination with some real stunning beaches, world-class scuba diving, and vibrant local culture with a slight Portuguese flavor. Explore the pristine Bazaruto Archipelago and the luxury island resorts there. Fly by helicopter to Benguerra Island lodges and spot dugongs on the way in. Enjoy thrilling marine life encounters in Tofo, or unwind in serene resorts like Ponta Mamoli.

• Is it safe to travel to Mozambique?

How safe is Mozambique? Yes it is considered safe in the southern and central 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.

But – following Mozambique’s recent elections in early October 2024, there were political tensions, protests, and potential disruptions, especially in areas like Maputo and near the border posts with South Africa. In the last few weeks there has been a considerable effort by the people of Mozambique to challenge the election results because of an apparent fraud by Frelimo the governing party. However, the situation has since stabilized, with no ongoing unrest reported. Travelers should stay updated on local news and avoid large gatherings or protests.

Should you travel to Mozambique right now? If we are honest check with your travel agent or resort before travelling. We have been in touch with all the operators we work with and to reassure you please read below on how our operators are handling the situation:

• White Pearl Ponta Mamoli:

Certain parts of Mozambique and border closures may have caused concern for your upcoming visit to White Pearl Resort. As of 12 November, all borders have been re-opened. We want to reassure you of the safety and security measures we have in place at our location, ensuring your stay with us will be both enjoyable and worry-free. We have actively contacted people on the ground, and they all relay that it is peaceful and life is carrying on as normal at the Kosi Bay Border post.

First and foremost, we want to assure you that White Pearl is situated in a region that remains peaceful and unaffected by the current unrest. We are closely monitoring the situation with local authorities and government agencies to ensure the continued safety of our guests and staff. Our team has been trained to respond to any unexpected situations relating to emergency evacuations should the need arise, and we are fully prepared with comprehensive security protocols.

• Massinga Beach Lodge:

Currently, everything is calm in Massinga and Vilanculos. We have regular airport transfers to and from Vilanculos, and the roads are quiet. Owners, management, and sales teams are actively monitoring Mozambican Tourism WhatsApp groups regarding the political situation, and we will promptly inform you if there are any changes.

• Safety in Northern Mozambique:

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.

• 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.

This period is perfect for wildlife viewing and diving, with clear waters for exploring marine life. For whale watching, travel between June and October

• Why travel to 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.

• Do I need a visa to travel to Mozambique?

It depends on your nationality. Read our visa guide to Mozambique here. Some nationalities are eligible for visa-free travel, while others require a tourist 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.

• Mozambique Food – what is it like?

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.

• How do I get to Mozambique?

You can fly into Maputo International Airport (MPM) and other other intranational airports in Mozambique easily. See our Mozambique flight schedules here. Road access is possible from numerous entry points – and road conditions are steadily improving in Mozambique. Southern Mozambique can be accessed from Maputo with daily flights from Johannesburg. The Bazaruto Archipelago is easily accessible from Johannesburg with direct 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.

• Where 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.

• Where to Scuba Dive in Mozambique?

Mozambique offers exceptional scuba diving opportunities along its 2,000 km coastline. Key spots include Tofo Beach, known for year-round sightings of whale sharks and manta rays. Tofo rates as one of the best places to see whale sharks in Mozambique and the Tofo accommodation and vibe is chilled. Loads of beach houses, pro dive shops with daily dive charters and great seaside restaurants to watch the sun go down. Do not go to Tofo for just a couple of nights – spend time there, meet the locals and get into the vibe. It is also sometimes even better in the Bazaruto Archipelago, a protected area ideal for exploring coral reefs and spotting dugongs and turtles.

We book scuba holidays to Mozambique for advanced to beginner divers and have been doing so for 20 years. Get in touch with Mozambique Travel to plan that Mozambique dive holiday you have been dreaming of. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Mozambique provides unique marine adventures and exceptional diving.

• 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. Your travel plans and budget will determine your mode of transport. For long distances, domestic flights are convenient. In cities like Maputo, taxis and ride-hailing apps are common. For rural travel, chapas (minibus taxis) are affordable but crowded and only for the super adventurous travellers to Mozambique. Private cars or 4×4 vehicles are better for exploring remote regions.

Book a holiday to Mozambique with us and we will take care of all your Mozambique travel requirements. Most of our guests fly in to central and regional international airports and are met by our property representatives after customs and immigration. So, you have someone on the ground waiting to welcome you that speaks English and will take you safely to your holiday destination in Mozambique. If you have issues with lost luggage or anything else they will be there to assist.

• What languages are spoken in Mozambique?

The official language of Mozambique is Portuguese, spoken by about half the population, primarily in urban areas. Additionally, the country is home to over 40 indigenous languages, including Makhuwa, Tsonga, Sena, and Shona, which vary by region. In all the properties you travel to management and staff are likely to speak good English or communicate in English.

Don’t let a supposed language barrier stop you enjoying Mozambique. Many Mozambicans are multilingual, often using local languages for daily communication and Portuguese in formal settings. This is especially prevalent in hotels and lodges in Mozambique

• Is Mozambique a malaria area?

Yes, Mozambique has malaria and malaria risk is high all year round, particularly in rural regions and during the rainy season. Travelers are advised to take precautions, including anti-malarial medication, using insect repellents, and sleeping under mosquito nets. It’s important to get your doctor’s advice before travelling and to take malaria prophylactics.

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 or medical practitioner.

• What is the currency in Mozambique?

The currency in Mozambique is the Mozambican Metical (MZN). Banknotes are available in denominations ranging from 20 to 1,000 meticais, and coins range from 1 centavo to 10 meticais. While meticais are used widely, the US dollar and South African Rand are also accepted in some tourist and border areas.Euros are also gratefully taken in the southern Mozambique regions around Maputo. If you’re travelling in the north, it’s best to carry US Dollars.

• Can I use my credit card in Mozambique?

• What is the electrical voltage in Mozambique?

• 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.