Off most travellers’ lists, but Mozambique has a lot to offer, especially as a pre- or post-safari beach break destination.
Mozambique’s largely unspoilt, dune-fringed coastline stretches 2,500km along the east of Africa on the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Here the tropical islands of the southern Barazaruto Archipelago and the coral islands of the northern Quirimbas Archipelago offer white beaches and exciting diving activities.
The main islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago are Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque and Santa Carolina. Benguerra is famous for its stunning white sandy beaches, tropical vegetation and indigenous forest, while the coast is renowned for a sea that’s rich in coral and over 1,200 species of fish – superb for both scuba diving and big game fishing.
From July to November, southern right and humpback whales arrive in the warm coastal waters of the Mozambique Channel to mate and calve.
Mozambique follows a southern African weather pattern, with the rains falling largely between December and March. Humidity can be uncomfortably high during this period. By around April or May the rains subside, the sun comes out and the humidity drops – better weather spreads gradually from the south to the north.
June to October is the dry season, with often perfect tropical weather: clear skies, plenty of sun and almost no rain. This is the best time to visit Mozambique.
Visas are required by all visitors except citizens of South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, Tanzania, Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius and Zimbabwe. They can be obtained on arrival at port of entry. While a yellow-fever-vaccination certificate is not officially required to enter Mozambique unless you’re entering from a yellow-fever-infected area (including Tanzania), carrying one is advised: it’s often requested.
