Mozambique
Mozambique’s long Indian Ocean coastline is its biggest draw, with the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos offering some of Africa’s most pristine beaches, coral reefs and diving. The capital, Maputo, blends Portuguese colonial architecture with a laid-back seafront atmosphere and a lively arts and live-music scene. Centuries of Portuguese influence show up clearly in the food, from grilled peri-peri prawns and piri-piri chicken to fresh seafood and cassava-based staples. Beyond the coast, the country offers wildlife recovery success stories in parks like Gorongosa, making it an increasingly popular add-on to a broader Southern Africa itinerary.
Explore Mozambique Destinations: Maputo.
Capital
Maputo
Main Gateway Airport
Maputo International Airport (MPM)
Currency
Mozambican Metical (MZN)
Languages Spoken
Portuguese (official), Swahili and numerous Bantu languages
Climate & Weather
Tropical, hot and humid along the coast; wet season November to March, dry season April to October
Best Time to Visit
April to October, dry season with pleasant temperatures for the coast and safaris
Popular Cities to Fly To
Maputo is the main gateway, with connections to Vilanculos (for Bazaruto) and Pemba (for the Quirimbas)
Popular Attractions
Bazaruto Archipelago, Quirimbas Archipelago, Gorongosa National Park, Maputo's Fish Market and colonial architecture
Food & Culture
Peri-peri prawns and piri-piri chicken, fresh seafood, cassava staples, a strong Portuguese colonial and Afro-Portuguese cultural blend