Mozambique
The information on this page is, as far as we know, correct. However it’s important that you verify before travelling to Mozambique. For any information contact us
General
Mozambique is the world's 35th-largest country. The country is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west and Swaziland and South Africa to the southwest. The capital and largest city is Maputo. Mozambique lies between latitudes 10° and 27°S, and longitudes 30° and 41°E.
Along Mozambique's 2 500 kilometres of beautiful, unspoilt coastline lie rich, colourful coral reefs which are host to some of the most amazing marine life the world has to offer. Scuba Diving off the coast of Mozambique is amongst the world's finest.
Portuguese is the official and most widely spoken language of the nation, spoken by half of the population. Most Mozambicans living in the cities speak Portuguese as their first language. Christianity is the most practised religion.
Mozambique holidays are about more than just lazing on soft sandy beaches. Once one of Africa's top big game destinations, the country’s wild reserves are recovering rapidly and are becoming a top choice for off-the-beaten-track safaris. In fact, Mozambique’s flagship park – the beautiful and diverse Gorongosa National Park – was recently the subject of an award-winning National Geographic documentary “Africa’s Lost Eden” and it won't be long before Mozambique regains its reputation as both a game viewing and beach holiday destination.
Seasons and Temperatures.
Mozambique has a tropical climate with two seasons, a wet season from October to March and a dry season from April to September. Climatic conditions, however, vary depending on altitude. Rainfall is heavy along the coast and decreases in the north and south.
Windy months are usually February (when there is a higher chance of cyclones) and August, although, again this is not always the case. When winds are strong, the sea can become rough but diving is still possible. A dive rarely has to be cancelled due to bad conditions.
The water temperature in the summer months is on average 27-28 degrees C but sometimes drops to 22-23 degrees C (although this is rare). Water temperature in the winter months is average 22 degrees C but can go as high as 24 degrees C and as low as 18 degrees C. Visibility is variable all year round with highs of 30m and lows of 5m.
Currency
Mozambique’s official currency is the Metical (plural Meticais) but if you’re travelling in southern Mozambique both the South African Rand and US Dollar are widely accepted. In the north it’s best to carry dollars. If you want to use a foreign currency instead of Meticais when souvenir shopping at markets and craft shops then we'd recommend that you bring small denomination notes.
Most hotels and lodges have credit card facilities but there are a couple of exceptions so be on the safe side and check with your Africa Safari Expert before you travel.
Tipping
A 10% tip for service in most Mozambique restaurants is standard. Tipping tour guides is at your discretion and depends on the size of your group and the level of service you feel you’ve received.
For more information, here's an excellent article by Getaway Magazine (January 2014).
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