Last update: 23 Oct 2026
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Mozambique Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Mozambique – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Mozambican Metical (MZN) £1 ≈ MZN 84.98 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are accepted in some urban areas, but cash is more commonly used, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Mobile payments are becoming more popular.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is common in Mozambique, with a typical 10% in restaurants. Taxis may be rounded up, and small tips are appreciated for hotel staff and service providers. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally not allowed, and it is advised to consume alcohol in licensed venues. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in designated areas, though public smoking is restricted in many indoor places. |
| Independence Day (25 June) |
Celebrating Mozambique’s independence from Portugal |
|---|
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 119 (Police), 117 (Ambulance), 198 (Fire) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Bolt |
| Other: | Mozambique offers beautiful beaches, wildlife, and culture, but travellers should prepare for limited infrastructure in rural areas and the possibility of instability in some regions. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Mozambique, Mozambique
Dry season May to October is best for beaches, diving and safaris, rainy season November to April brings heat, humidity and cyclone risk
Cyclone season November to April, highest risk January to March, heaviest on the central and northern coast
Climate varies by region: Maputo and the south are drier and cooler, north (Quirimbas, Pemba) has stronger monsoon-like rains from December to March
Roads in the interior and north often become impassable during the rainy season
Don't miss
- 🐠 Dive among vibrant coral reefs in the Bazaruto Archipelago
- 🏖️ Relax on the pristine white sands of Tofo Beach
- ⛵ Sail on a traditional dhow along Mozambique Island
- 🏙️ Explore Maputo’s colonial architecture and lively markets
- 🐋 Spot dolphins and whale sharks off the coast of Vilankulo
- 🍤 Enjoy fresh seafood and sunset views at a beachfront bar
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Mozambique?
Mozambique's appeal lies in its remarkable combination of unspoiled beaches, rich marine life and cultural diversity without the crowds found in more popular African destinations. The country boasts some of the continent's most beautiful coastlines, with pristine beaches and coral reefs perfect for diving and snorkeling. Beyond the coast, you'll find wildlife reserves, colonial-era architecture and vibrant local markets that offer glimpses into the country's Portuguese-influenced heritage and traditional cultures. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. Infrastructure remains underdeveloped in many areas, with limited transportation options outside major cities. The country has struggled economically, with the average monthly salary around $361, significantly below living costs. While tourist areas have improved in recent years, healthcare facilities are limited in rural regions and the rainy season (November-April) can make some roads impassable.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Maputo
Capital city on Mozambique's southeastern coast offers a blend of Portuguese colonial architecture and vibrant markets. The waterfront promenade hosts lively street food stalls, while nearby museums showcase the region’s history. Maputo’s growing arts scene attracts creatives worldwide.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
AZGO Festival
-
Maputo International Music Festival
-
Independence Day (June 25)
-
Marrabenta Festival
-
Mozambique Fashion Week
-
Inhambane Diving Festival
-
Maputo International Film Festival
-
Wimbe Beach Festival
-
Mozambique Agricultural Fair
-
Maputo Carnival
Knowledge before you go
- Avoid Cabo Delgado province entirely due to active insurgency.
- Take malaria prophylaxis daily; use DEET repellent and mosquito nets religiously.
- Never drive after dark; roads flood heavily during November-April rainy season.
- Carry cash everywhere as ATMs unreliable outside Maputo; USD widely accepted at resorts.
How to travel to Mozambique
Most international visitors arrive in Mozambique through Maputo International Airport, with additional international airports in Beira, Nampula and Pemba. Flights from European cities like London or Paris typically range from MZN 700 – 1,200 (£8.23 – 14.11) one-way. Land borders with South Africa, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Eswatini provide alternative entry points, with bus services connecting to neighboring countries. As of March 2025, most visitors require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival at major entry points or in advance through Mozambican embassies.
Access summary
- Maputo: Fly to Maputo International (MPM) from Johannesburg, Nairobi, African hubs.
- Bazaruto/Vilankulo: Fly to Vilankulo (VNX) via Maputo or Johannesburg, then boat.
- LAM Mozambique Airlines hub at Maputo; regional African carrier, no major alliance.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Mozambique
Mozambique offers accommodations ranging from luxury beach resorts in the archipelagos to mid-range hotels in cities and budget guesthouses in smaller towns. In Maputo, you'll find international hotel chains alongside local options, while coastal areas feature beachfront lodges and eco-resorts. Budget accommodations start around US$20 – 30 (£14.94 – 22.41) per night, mid‑range options from US$60 – 100 (£44.82 – 74.70) and luxury resorts from US$200 – 300 (£149.40 – 224.10). During peak season (June‑September), popular beach destinations should be booked well in advance.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Mozambique
Getting around Mozambique can be challenging due to limited infrastructure. In cities like Maputo, local transportation includes buses, minibuses (chapas) and taxis, though these can be crowded and uncomfortable. For intercity travel, long-distance buses connect major towns, but schedules can be unreliable. Domestic flights are the most efficient way to cover long distances, especially to northern regions and archipelagos. For exploring coastal areas, dhow boats offer a traditional and scenic mode of transport.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Mozambique are around 56% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to MZN) is 2% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Safety varies across Mozambique. Major tourist areas are generally secure, but urban areas can experience petty theft. Exercise caution in Maputo after dark. Northern Cabo Delgado province has ongoing security concerns. Always check current travel advisories before visiting remote regions.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities are limited outside major cities. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential. Malaria is endemic throughout Mozambique, so antimalarial medication and mosquito precautions are necessary year-round.
Accessibility
Accessibility is challenging throughout Mozambique. Even major cities have limited infrastructure for mobility-impaired travelers, with few ramps, accessible public transportation or facilities. Natural attractions and beaches present significant barriers for wheelchair users.
Tap water
Tap water is generally not safe for drinking throughout Mozambique. Rely on bottled water with sealed caps, which is widely available in urban areas but may be limited in remote regions. Always carry water when traveling between destinations.
Packing recommendations for Mozambique
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
high SPF
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Waterproof jacket
if visiting during the wet season
🪰
Insect repellent
🩱
Swimwear
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Translation app or phrasebook
💊
Anti-malarial medication
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Related articles & guides for Mozambique
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