Mozambique

Situated on the south-eastern 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. A holiday in Mozambique provides a combination of glorious weather, gorgeous scenery, friendly people and great value for money, ensuring that this country is becoming an increasingly trendy destination for global travellers. In fact, Mozambique has become the 5th most-visited country in Africa in recent years, drawing nearly 2.5 million annual tourists to its welcoming shores.

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 the 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 Maputo, formerly Lourenzo Marques, 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. The civil war left the city in a dismal state of disrepair, and although still tainted by shabbiness, Maputo is slowly recovering some of its former glory and today the bustling capital reveals many 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 a 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 they were 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, perfect for summer holidays, 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.

Mozambique is that rarest of holiday destinations that offers a complete package to visitors.Whether you're seeking a sun and sand beach holiday, or sport fishing and off-road adventures, warm and welcoming Mozambique will cater to your every desire.

Climate

Mozambique's climate varies in the different regions of the country, but generally, the inland areas are slightly cooler but more humid than the coastal areas during the rainy season. Winter is the dry season, lasting from April to September, and is the best time to visit Mozambique. 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).

Money

The official currency is the New Metical (MZN), which is divided into 100 centavos. In the southern parts of the country, South African Rand, US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are also accepted to pay for accommodation. Credit cards are accepted in some upmarket hotels in Maputo, but facilities throughout the rest of the country are limited; it is advisable to carry cash or travellers cheques. ATMs are limited and tend to be unreliable, but local banks have branches in most cities.

Passport Visa

All foreign passengers to Mozambique must hold return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. Visitors of most nationalities can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival in Mozambique: the visa fee is USD 66, and further 30-day extensions are possible. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Mozambique, if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mozambique. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mozambique. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mozambique. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mozambique. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mozambique. No visa is required, for stays of up to 30 days.
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mozambique. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Mozambique. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Health

Health regulations in Mozambique require visitors to have a yellow fever certificate if travelling from infected areas. Malaria is a risk throughout the year in the whole country. Cholera and other water-borne diseases are prevalent during the rainy season. Diseases caused by unsanitary conditions are common throughout the country, and untreated water should be considered unsafe to drink. The government has declared tuberculosis (TB) a national emergency and it is expected to be a problem for the next 15 years. 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.

Embassy Consulates

• Mozambique Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Canada): +1 202 293 7146.
• Mozambique High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 (020) 7383 3800.
• Mozambique High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 401 0300.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Maputo: +258 21 492 797.
• British High Commission, Maputo: +258 21 356 000.
• Canadian High Commission, Maputo: +258 21 492 623.
• Australian Consulate, Maputo: +258 (0)1 322 780.
• South African High Commission, Maputo: +258 21 491 614.
• Irish Embassy, Maputo: +258 (0)1 491 440.
• New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Mozambique): +27 (0)12 435 9000.