Travel guide – mozambique

mozambique
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Overview

Situated on the southeastern coast of Africa, Mozambique has persevered through a violent civil war and terrible floods, and is emerging from a ruinous past to once again stake its claim as one of the jewels of Africa.

The 1,500 miles (2,500km) of palm-fringed coastline is washed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and graced with long white beaches, excellent coral reefs and strings of pristine islands. The idyllic Bazaruto archipelago, off the coast of Inhambane province, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, consisting of four main islands that make up one of the most beautiful places on the continent. The islands offer a classic tropical getaway, with superb fishing, water sports, shaded beaches, surf, and a marine park offering outstanding diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Attracted by rumours of pearls in the 1700s, the Portuguese established the capital city of Lourenco Marques, or Maputo, as it is known today, in the southern reaches of the country. It became one of the most stylish cities in Africa, with broad avenues lined with jacaranda and acacia trees, sidewalks paved with mosaics, tall buildings and a unique Mediterranean/African atmosphere that attracted a wealthy cosmopolitan crowd. During the war of the 1970s and 80s, the proud city fell into a dismal state of disrepair, however Maputo has worked hard to recreate some of its former glory, and today the bustling capital reveals many restored Portuguese-style colonial buildings, and offers culture and old world charm, along with numerous places to enjoy Mozambique's famous peri-peri prawns.

Lying just off the coast of Maputo is the popular Inhaca Island, which has extensive coral reefs, a fascinating maritime museum and historical lighthouse. Most of the wildlife reserves are located in the central and southern parts of the country, with the exception of the important Niassa Reserve on the northern Tanzania border, and although largely decimated during the civil war, they are currently being restocked and improved with large populations of elephant, buffalo and antelope. North of Maputo there are beautiful beaches and a number of centres that offer some of the best fishing in the world, particularly the areas around Guinjata Bay and the Mozambique Channel.

Climate

The climate varies in the different regions of the country, but generally the inland areas are slightly cooler, although more humid than along the coast in the rainy season. Winter is the dry season lasting from April to September, and 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 80ºF (27ºC). The rainy season coincides with the heat and humidity from October to March, with average coastal temperatures of 88ºF (31ºC).

Health

Visitors require a yellow fever certificate if travelling from infected areas. Malaria is a risk throughout the year in the whole country and is reported to be resistant to chloroquine. It is recommended that visitors take precautions against typhoid, bilharzia, hepatitis and cholera in particular. AIDS/HIV is prevalent. Diseases caused by unsanitary conditions are common throughout the country, and untreated water should be considered unsafe to drink. Hospital facilities are generally poor and outside the major cities of Maputo and Beira medical facilities are limited. Comprehensive medical insurance is essential and it is recommended that visitors carry personal medical supplies with them.

The basics

Time

Local time is GMT +2.

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. The rounded three-pin plug is common, particularly near the border with South Africa and in Maputo. Two round- and flat-pin plugs are also found.

Language

Portuguese is the official language, and there are 13 main national languages spoken. English is taught in secondary schools, but is only spoken in the southern tourist regions.

Tipping

Tipping is generally not expected, although in tourist areas a tip of 10 to 15% is appreciated.

Safety

Many unexploded landmines lie scattered about the country, and visitors are advised that it is extremely risky to wander off well-travelled paths and roads; local information should be sought before going off-road outside provincial capitals. Violent crime is on the increase, including car hijackings and armed robbery. In the cities, particularly Maputo, muggings, bag snatching and pick-pocketing is common, and visitors are advised to be alert in public places, to keep valuables out of sight, and to avoid walking anywhere at night. Identity documents should be carried at all times. Women, in particular, should not walk alone on any beach in Mozambique. Overland travel after dark is not recommended, and travellers should be especially alert when driving near the Mozambique-South African border. Police checkpoints are common and foreigners are at risk of frequent harassment. Many roads can become impassable in the rainy season (November - April). An earthquake measuring 7.5 on the Richter Scale struck the northern province of Manica on 23 February 2006 in what is reported to be the largest quake to hit the area in over 100 years; over a thousand people were affected.

Customs

Visitors should be cautious about taking photographs of military or government related subjects, such as government buildings, bridges, soldiers and airports.

Communications

The international dialling code for Mozambique is +258. City codes are also required. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). Outgoing international calls, other than for South Africa, must go through the operator. Two mobile phone GSM 900/1800 networks provide limited coverage in and around Maputo, Beira, some coastal locations and a few other isolated towns. Internet cafes are available in Maputo.

Duty Free

Travellers to Mozambique may enter the country with the following items and not incur customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 250g tobacco; perfume for personal use; and 750ml of spirits. Drugs are strictly prohibited.

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