Mozambique, officially called the Republic of Mozambique, is situated along the south east coast of Africa. It is accompanied by the warm Indian Ocean and 2500 kilometres of pristine coastline. Mozambique borders on South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia and Tanzania. The Zambezi River divides the country into two topographical regions and overall Mozambique covers approximately 801 590km² of land.
Mozambique is divided into ten provinces and its capital city of Maputo is situated in the southern region of the country.
Official Languages.
The official language is Portuguese (as Mozambique was colonised by the Portuguese). English is however commonly spoken throughout the country. Bantus speak several different languages, the most widely used being Swahili, Makhuwa, Sena, Ndau, and Shangaan. Bantu languages as spoken in Mozambique have many words of Portuguese origin.
Mozambique Islands.
Mozambique consists of a number of islands. The closest of these being Inhaca Island situated in the bay of Maputo, just 40 km from the capital. There is only one resort on Inhaca Island, the Pestana Inhaca Lodge Island Resort.
Mozambique is also home to a chain of five other islands. These were all once a part of the mainland, which broke away from the continent 25 000 years ago, forming the Bazurato Archipelago. These islands comprise of the three larger islands, Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, as well as the smaller Banque and Santa Carolina, (previously known as Paradise Island).
There are a number of resorts on these islands including Azura, Marlin Lodge, Benguerra Lodge, Indigo Bay Island Resort and Pestana Bazaruto Lodge.
There is also the Quirimbas Archipelago, which is situated off the coast of Northern Mozambique. There is approximately 32 islands in this region and is home to some of the following resorts: Matemo Island Resort, Medjumbe Island Resort and Ibo Island to mention but a
Climate.
The Mozambiquian climate ranges from tropical to subtropical (humid and hot). The rainy season broadly coincides with the hot summer months in the Southern Hemisphere, being November to March. Rain however is experienced over 7 to 9 months of the year. Winter is generally in the months of July to September, although coastal area temperatures do not fall below 12 degrees Celsius.
Currency.
The local currency in Mozambique is the Metical. However, the American dollar and the South African Rand are accepted in many places. VISA, AMEX and MASTERCARD credit cards and Travellers Cheques are accepted everywhere. In addition the Euro has also recently been introduced as a means of transacting.
Environmental Issues.
Although water is treated in Mozambique, it is still considered unsafe in most parts of the country. It is recommended that you drink bottled water.
Mozambique is also home to Africa’s largest hydro electric power dam at its Cahora Bassa Hydroelectric (HCB) plant in the Tete province.
Health Concerns.
Inoculations against yellow fever, tetanus, hepatitis etc are currently not required when travelling into Mozambique. It is, however, advisable to consult your doctor with any concerns before visiting the country. Precautions should also be taken against Maleria.
Travel Documents.
To travel to Mozambique you will need a valid passport and an entry visa. Visas can be obtained from Mozambican embassies and consulates, as well as from Mozambique border posts. South Africans travelling on a South African passport to the country do not require visas.
Mozambique GSA.
Mozambique GSA has been in operation for over 10 years and will be able to help you with any information you require about Mozambique and travelling there. We are also able to arrange individual tour packages to any of the luxury beach and islands resorts to suite your individual requirements.
For more information please call +27 11 476 4143, email info@mozambiqueislands.com or complete our general enquiry script here >>.