What you need to know
Portuguese is the official language, although this is generally only spoken by the more educated amongst Mozambique’s population. Beside this, more than 60 different dialects of Bantu languages can be found in Mozambique. English is generally spoken in hotels and beach lodges.
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.
Bank notes come in large denominations (up to MT100,000) so it’s useful to keep smaller notes with you as vendors often don’t have change. ATMs will accept most visa cards, and most credit cards can be used in accommodating lodges and hotels.
Banking hours are usually from Monday to Friday – 08h30 to 15h30 and Saturdays – 08h30 to 10h30
There is WIFI available at most upmarket lodge and hotels, although some are located in remote areas that will not be covered by internet or mobile reception. SIM cards can be purchased for cell phones in most shops and service stations.
Cell phone reception is widespread and you can purchase a local line relatively cheaply. The major local service provider is mCel and pay as you go cards are readily available in many stores. South African service provider Vodacom is also widespread in the country. You can also opt to have international roaming enabled on your phone although this can be an expensive option.
The International Dialling Code for Mozambique is +258, followed by an area code. Calling from Mozambique, you dial 00 plus the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States, or 0044 for the United Kingdom).
All visitors to Mozambique must possess a passport valid for at least six months after their departure from the country. Visas are required by everyone except citizens of South Africa, Zambia, Botswana and Swaziland and can be bought at most borders for between US $35 and US $80 depending on your nationality. However, due to recent reports of visitors being refused this service, we strongly advise you obtain your visas in advance from your nearest Mozambican Embassy.
For visa requirements for your country, please send us an email at info@faranwide.com
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About Mozambique
Mozambique is Southern Africa’s tropical paradise travel destination, with pristine shores and remote islands for the ultimate beach vacation.
With an area of nearly 800,000 sq. km, Mozambique is three times the size of Great Britain. It is located in the southeast of Africa and borders six other nations: Zimbabwe to the west, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia to the north, South Africa, and Swaziland to the south. The 2,500 km long coastline is home to many excellent beaches surrounded by small islands, lagoons, and coral reefs.
Most visitors to Mozambique head for the country’s Indian Ocean coast. While the mainland has large expanses of palm-fringed beaches, the traditional “desert islands” and unspoiled coral reefs can be found in the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos. This area has some of the best dive locations in the Indian Ocean, and the marine life is amazing. One of the year-round highlights is diving with whale sharks and manta rays, which peaks in concentration from October to April.
Iconic Mozambique Destinations
Bazaruto Archipelago
Bazaruto Archipelago
This archipelago lies within 20km of the eastern coast of southern central Mozambiique. Vilankulo, with its international airport, offers the easiest access to this group of islands. It is a tropical paradise offering some of Africa’s finest beach vacations in small intimate lodges on private islands.
Quirimbas Archipelago
Quirimbas Archipelago
Dotted along the northern Mozambican coastline are 32 idyllic islands that make up the Quirimbas Archipelago. Here, a plethora of marine life, ranging from turtles and dugongs to whales and dolphins and a thriving coral reef beckon to diving enthusiasts. The magnificent Quirimbas National Park offers nature lovers the opportunity to explore a vast expanse of enchanted forest.
The Quirimbas boast enormous cultural and historical value. The islands represent a melting-pot of Portuguese, Arabian and African influences, while historic landmarks such as the old fort on Ibo Island, tell tales of slavery, pirates and the ominous ivory trade.
The Pontas In The South
The Pontas In The South
The Pontas, in southern Mozambique, include Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane and Ponta Mamoli. There is so much on offer including diving, swimming with dolphins, horse riding and deep sea fishing. These are the quickest to access points from South Africa.
Read MoreMaputo, Machangulo and Inhaca
Maputo, Machangulo and Inhaca Island
The vibrant city of Maputo stands as Mozambique’s capital, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, complex history, and interesting customs. The Machangulo Peninsular and Inhac Island are both situated with 40km of Maputo and offer exceptional beach and bush experiences.
Read MoreInhambane
Inhambane
The Inhambane Province is situated on the east coast in the southern region of Mozambique; the capital being Inhambane town; once a significant port and one of the oldest villages on the east coast. Inhambane is famous for its music and the extensive Inhambane coastline that offers the ideal location for a beach holiday. Exceptional diving at Barra Reef is renowned in the area, as well as mouth-watering seafood fresh from the ocean.
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