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MOZAMBIQUE
Visa Info for Mozambique
All nationalities, apart from Malawians and South Africans, require a visa to enter Mozambique. Visas are to be obtained prior to departure as entry visas will not be issued upon arrival at any border post or airport. This applies to all passport holders.
Please Note: South Africa signed a visa waiver agreement with Mozambique on April 15th 2005 which means that citizens of both countries can stay in South Africa or Mozambique for 30 days without a visa. Please check with the consulate for full details.
A single entry visa is valid for up to 60 days, although with Consul's approval this may be extended to 90 days. A multiple entry visa is valid for six months, though each entry is only valid for a ten day stay.
Requirements for a visa are: a passport with at least six months' validity, two passport photographs, a visa application form, and (usually) a copy of your airline ticket / itinerary. Sometimes proof of permanent resident status or valid entry visa for country of origin is required.
The cost of the visa will depend on where you are applying. Prices range from about US$20-40 for a single entry visa and US$40-100 for a mulitple-entry visa. Visas take about a week to process and you must enter the country within a month (or two) of the date your visa is issued.
It is advised that you carry certified copies your passport and all travel documents, and always have either your passport or these copies with you.
Banks
Local banks have branches in most cities which are open from Monday to Friday from 07:45 to 11:00 or 12:00. The main banks include Banco Commercial de Mozambique (BCM) and Banco Popular de Desenvolvimento (BPD), which both have branches throughout the country, as well as Banco Standard Totta.
Credit cards are usually accepted at more upmarket hotels, but apart from this your credit card will be of little use.
Currency
The unit of currency is the meticais (M) which is divided into 100 centavos. If you are travelling in the southern parts of the country, South African rands, US dollars and pounds stirling are also accepted and can be used to pay for accommodation. North of Beira US dollars and stirling are widely accepted.
Exchange Rate
The exchange rate is in your favour. Generally you will find that fine cuisine, wine and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world. Private exchange bureaus in Maputo usually offer better exchange rates than banks. Changing money on the black market is strongly discouraged.
Safety
You should be aware of the risks of crime, poor road safety standards and minimal health facilities in Mozambique. That said, Mozambique is a relatively low-risk country as far as crime is concerned and the vast majority of visits to Mozambique are trouble-free. Keep a close watch on your possessions in busy places and keep all your valuables in a hidden money belt.
Never drive at night and set off as early as possible so that you have as much time as possible to deal with delays. When dealing with officials, be friendly and patient and treat them with respect. They are likely to reciprocate.
If you are visiting the Bazaruto Archipelago, the only real dangers are razor clams which are exposed at low tides. It is recommended you wear sandals to avoid cutting your feet on these.
Water
Tap water is usually safe to drink, but bottled water is available should you prefer this. Avoid eating food which has not been cooked or peeled.
BANKS
Most banks are open Monday-Friday 7:30-11:15 am.
Banco Comercial do Moçambique, PO Box 865, Av 25 de Setembro 1800, Maputo (tel: 307-533, 307-471, 307-532; fax: 307-564, 307-557, 307-543).
Banco Internacional de Moçambique SARL, Av Zedequias Manganhela 478, Maputo (tel: 429-390/3; fax: 429-389).
Banco Standard Totta de Moçambique SARL, PO Box 2086, Praça 25 de Junho Nr 1, Maputo (tel: 423-041/5, 424-405, 301-616; fax: 426-967, 423-029).
Banco de Fomento SARL; Av. Julius Nyerere 1016, Maputo (tel. 494-010/1; fax: 494-401).
Banco de Moçambique, PO Box 423, Av 25 de Setembro 1679, Maputo (tel: 428-150/9; fax: 429-721).
BIM Investimento SARL, Av Kim III Sung 961, Maputo (tel: 490-085/7; fax: 490-212; e-mail: bimi@vircom.com).
BNP Nedbank (Mocambique) SARL, PO Box 1445, Prédio 33 Andares; Av 25 de Setembro 1230, Maputo (tel: 306-700; fax: 306-305; e-mail: bnpnebank@bnpnedbank.co.mz ).
Novo Banco SARL, Av.do Trabalho, 750-Sede, Maputo (tel: 407-755/6, 408-209; fax: 407-755/6, 408-210; e-mail: novobanco@teledata.mz ).
Uniao Comercial de Bancos (Moçambique) SARL, Av. Fredrich Engels 400, Maputo (tel: 499-900, 495-221-5 fax: 498-675; e-mail: banque_fc@teledata.mz ).
The banks and the Bureau de change at most airports offer the best exchange rates, but it is also possible to change money at the hotel reception
CREDIT CARDS
Travellers' cheques in any currency are acceptable, while Visa and MasterCard are generally accepted throughout the region, but American Express and Diners Club are not. Usually only the large hotels and retail outlets will accept credit cards.
CURRENCY
With the exception of South Africa and Namibia, the preferred - and in some cases only - acceptable currency is the US Dollar. In South Africa and Namibia, US Dollar, Pound Sterling, Deutsche Mark, and South African Rand are accepted as cash. Therefore, any cash payments to camps for curios, or gratuities to guides or staff, need to be in one of these currencies.
It is advisable to take travellers cheques or currency in US dollars or South African rand. Travellers entering Mozambique have to fill out a statement detailing the amount of currency in bank notes, cheques and travellers cheques being brought into the country. The declaration is passed over to the Exchange Control Office at the point of entry.
Best time to visit Mozambique
The best time to visit Mozambique is during the winter months from April to September. The southern parts of the country are generally dryer and less tropical than the north.
The best months for game viewing are August and September, towards the end of the dry season. The best time for bird-watching is usually November and December, which is the hot, rainy season.
A wide variety of fish are attracted to the warm waters of Mozambique, with larger fish populating the waters in summer, and small to medium sized fish in winter, making the coast a good fishing and diving destination.
CLIMATE
Mozambique has two main seasons: a hot, normally wet season from October to March and a cooler, mostly dry season from April to September. In the extreme south the mean annual temperature is around 23 degrees Celsius (C), with a difference of about 8 degrees C between the hottest and coldest months. In the north the mean annual temperature is about 25 degrees C. The temperature in Maputo is influenced by the direction of the wind and wide variations are experienced, especially during the cool season. Temperatures in Maputo can reach as high as 45 degrees C. Most rain falls in the second half of the hot season. Northern regions receive 640–1,280mm and southern regions may receive 260–1,540mm. The average is 770mm.
INFORMATION:
Capital: Maputo
Languages: Portuguese and English
Currency: Metical, SA Rand and US Dollars
Time: Same as South Africa, GMT +2
Driving: International drivers licenses
Climate: Summer all year round average 25 – 30 C
Electricity: 220V AC
FACTS ABOUT MOZAMBIQUE AND IT'S ISLANDS
Mozambique lies along the southeastern coastline of Africa and boasts 2000 kilometers of pristine coastline. Formerly a Portuguese colony, it has once again become the playground of South African and international tourists who visit the turquoise waters of various islands and coastal resorts.
The Capital City of Mozambique is Maputo, situated in the south. The official language is Portuguese, although English is quite widely spoken especially at the various resorts.
ENVIRONMENT
The coastal plain, in the south, rises to mountains and plateaus in the north and west. Two of Southern Africa’s longest rivers, the Zambezi and the Limpopo, flow through Mozambique. Other major rivers include the Save and the Rovuma, which forms the northern border with Tanzania. Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa, forms part of the border with Malawi.
As you go westward, the land changes abruptly from a narrow, palm-studded strip of beach along the coast to a broad belt of savannah and woodland, then forested mountains. Trees include hardwoods, acacia and papaya. Fauna include the rare, endangered black rhinoceros.
There are many regional variations in Mozambique, but generally the hot, rainy season is from October to March with the average daily high hitting 31°C (88°F). The dry season runs from April to September, when the average daily high tops out at 27°C (80°F) on the coast, while it is somewhat cooler inland.
GETTING THERE
One can drive from Johannesburg to Maputo, or travel by bus or train. To reach the magnificent islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago, it is better to fly. South African Airways and LAM (Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique) fly regularly to Maputo. LAM also has flights via Maputo, further north to Vilankulo, Pemba, and various other centres in Mozambique.
A new operation, TTA Pelican Air now flies directly to Vilankulo, which is the gateway to the magnificent islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Visas for Mozambique are no longer required by SA Passport Holders. Other passport holders can obtainVisas in advance, or even on arrival in Mozambique. Please contact us if you have any queries.
HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
No vaccinations are required when visiting Mozambique. However, as a precaution, Malaria tablets should be taken. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Except at the upmarket resorts, it is not a good idea to drink unbottled water. We recommend you bring along the following personal medication: Insect repellent, suntan and blockout creams, Immodium, Malaria tablets and antihistamine creams.
CURRENCY
The unit of currency is the Metical (plural Meticais), however US Dollars and South African Rands are the more readily accepted currencies.
MAPUTO AND SURROUNDS
Mozambique’s capital, Maputo is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Since the end of the civil war, roads have been resurfaced, running water and electricity have been restored, and a lot of development is taking place. There are several museums and other places of interest, including the well-known Mercado Municipal market, an 18th century fort, and the Roman Catholic Cathedral, which is one of Maputo’s most impressive buildings.
There are numerous hotels offering a range of accommodation, but visitors looking for a beach holiday would do better to find accommodation out of Maputo as Maputo does not have the lovely sandy white beaches found further north and on the islands. Only the Holiday Inn in Maputo is situated on the beachfront; others offer wonderful sea-views, but do not have access to any beach. The business hotels are excellent and usually offer complimentary transfers to the main business areas and to the airport. It is only a short drive from Mavelane International Airport to the city centre.
ILHA DA INHACA
Inhaca Island is the closest island getaway, situated in the bay of Maputo, just 40 km from the capital. It is easily accessed with daily air transfers, just 10 minutes flying time from Maputo. There are also some boat companies that arrange boat transfers for larger groups. There is only one resort on Inhaca Island, the Pestana Inhaca Lodge Island Resort. There is a small village on Inhaca, with a rather quaint but well-known restaurant called Lucas’ and a small market. One can also visit the Marine Biology Museum and excursions are taken to the lighthouse and to Portuguese Island, just a few minutes from Inhaca Island. Portuguese island is totally deserted with magnificent expanses of beautiful white sandy beaches, and safe bays for swimming.
VILANKULO
Approximately 800km north of Maputo lies the town of Vilankulo, (formerly Vilanculos). Vilankulo is the gateway to the romantic islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago. It is easily accessible by two wheel drive vehicles, and the International Airport has flights arriving regularly from Johannesburg and Maputo.
Vilankulo is a busy, bustling town with friendly people and a lively atmosphere. Electricity is generated by means of natural gas. At the Vilankulo markets fresh produce is readily available, and there are shops selling basic supplies, as well as a petrol station and a clinic with competent doctors. There are also numerous restaurants serving a variety of fresh seafood and Portuguese cuisine.
SCUBA DIVING & SNORKELLING
Scuba diving in the Bazaruto Archipelago has been likened to diving at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The corals alone can keep the diver spell-bound as the full spectrum of coral species are present. Over 600 species of fish have been recorded during Scuba diving. Humpback whales, dolphins and moray eels often accompany the diver on explorations of the marine world. Leatherback, Loggerhead, Green and Hawksbill turtles and the mystical dugong are also sometimes sighted.
FISHING
The big game fishing around the Bazaruto Archipelago is world-renowned. Being on the very edge of the deep Mozambique Channel, Bazaruto is Africa’s most productive area for Marlin (Black, Blue and Striped) and Sailfish as well as warm water game fish such as Giant Kingfish, Wahoo, King Mackerel, Dorado and Bonito. October to March are the prime Marlin months with June to September being best for Sailfish. Many other species of fish are caught all year round. With regard to Rock & surf fishing, it may be necessary to hire a Landrover to reach the best spots. Boats can also be hired for fly-fishing. Kingfish, Bonito, Bonefish and Gars are prevalent at evening high tide.
BIRD LIFE
Approximately 164 different birds have been identified and confirmed on the islands in habitats varying from the coastal dunes, open grasslands and fresh water lakes to savannah and acacia woodlands. The shores fringing the islands are a paradise for plovers, sandpipers and other wading birds. Thousands of Palearctic migrants cram the shallow waters during the summer months and a keen eye and a good pair of binoculars will reveal many rarities among them. Other animals to be seen are the plentiful Red-tailed squirrels, Samango Monkeys, Suni and Duiker, which have been re-introduced to the islands.
ILHA DO BAZARUTO
The largest island in the Archipelago is Bazaruto Island, approx. 37 km in length and 7 km at its widest point. The name Bazaruto originates from a local word; “Ushurutswa”, which means “island of the mist”; the Portuguese later converted it to Bazaruto. Legend has it that pearls were collected for the Queen of Sheba off the coast of Bazaruto.
The eastern strip of the island is composed of enormous sand dunes. The remainder of the island is thicket, grassland, scrub and wetland. Wildlife species include dolphins, dugongs, humpback whales and marine turtles. The freshwater lakes are home to big crocodiles. Near the north point of the island is an old lighthouse, the Farol do Bazaruto, built by the Portuguese over 100 years ago. This has not been in operation for many years, but the view from the top of the lighthouse is truly spectacular. Bazaruto Island has two airstrips, one near each of the resorts.
There are two lodges on this island; the 4-star Pestana Bazaruto Lodge Island Resort, which is situated in a sheltered bay below the lighthouse, and the newer 5-star Indigo Bay Island Resort, further south.
ILHA DE BENGUERRA
Also known as Benguerua Island is approximately 55 square kilometres in extent. Benguerra Island was originally named “Santa Antonio” by Portuguese explorers and was later named Benguerra after a local Tribal chief. The island is approximately 11km in length and 5,5km wide and lies 14km offshore from the mainland and the town of Vilankulo.
Cashew nut trees are indigenous and grow on the seaward side of the island. The locals harvest the nuts and the toxic husk from the nuts is used to brew very intoxicating liquor. Wild orange trees contain a natural strychnine poison when green but can be eaten when ripe. Sisal plants are plentiful and are used in a manufactured form by the locals to repair their fishing nets. Mlala palms are in abundance and the leaves are used for the weaving of mats, baskets and hats, which are then sold. The sap from the stem of the plant is also used to brew potent liquor. The locals who grow a small amount of sweet potatoes, paw-paws and onions also harvest coconut palms. On the southern point of the island you will find Casuarina trees planted by convicts from Penal colonies in the area during Portuguese rule. The trees are not indigenous and were planted to prevent erosion on the island. The island has a usable hard grass airstrip. Co-ordinates are: 21.51.00S 35.27.00E 1000 metres
There are two upmarket lodges on Benguerra Island; Benguerra Lodge and Marlin Lodge.
ILHA DE MAGARUQUE
The third largest island in the Archipelago. The hotel is being refurbished. Magaruque has a tarred airstrip, and is the closest island to the town of Vilankulo. The island boasts superb snorkelling and scuba diving on a reef just a few metres from the front of the hotel.
ILHA SANTA CAROLINA
Known previously as Paradise Island, and sometimes referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian ocean”, is a tiny island midway between Bazaruto Island and the town of Inhassoro, on the mainland. The old hotel is not operational at this time, but the island is truly beautiful, and well worth a visit if staying at one of the Lodges on Bazaruto.
NORTHERN MOZAMBIQUE
PEMBA& THE QUIRIMBAS ARCHIPELAGO
Direct flights from Johannesburg to Pemba in the northern most Cabo Delgado Province have recently been introduced, which is opening up the beautiful unspoilt area of Pemba, and the little-known group of 32 islands that make up the Quirimbas Archipelago, that begin some 70 km north of Pemba and continue right up to the Tanzanian border.
Pemba, formerly known as Porto Amelia, is the vibrant capital of Cabo Delgado Province. The city lies on the south shore of Pemba Bay, the third largest bay in the world. The modern port, the international airport, world-class hotels and restaurants, and a network of newly-repaired roads combine with the historic charm and colonial architecture of the old city to give a fascinating and vibrant destination situated on this stretch of Mozambican coast.
In central Pemba there is an authentic local market or Souk, where arts and crafts, as well as traditional silverware can be bought - a bargain hunter's delight.
Pemba is also renowned as being a prime destination for water sport and diving enthusiasts as the coral reef lies close to the shore and their magnificent display of colourful coral species, thousands of tropical fish and mammals like whales and dolphins are waiting to be explored. The abundant fishing waters at St Lazarus Banks are also within easy reach.
There are many pristine, white beaches along the coast, including the famous Wimbe beach. Nestling amongst swaying palm trees and the warm Indian Ocean, the 5-star Pemba Beach Hotel offers you the ultimate getaway. Situated just outside of Pemba, the hotel offers exclusivity and tranquillity in an idyllically beautiful and tropical setting on the unspoilt Mozambican coastline.
Pemba is close to a number of breathtaking attractions. These include the beautifully untouched Quirimbas Archipelago, a group of 32 islands, including historic Ibo; a major trading centre in previous centuries when Africa’s East Coast was controlled by Arabs, and later became a Portuguese colony.
Two forts guard Ibo, one of them a magnificent example of Portuguese architecture in the 1800s, the other reduced to a ruin. Yet Ibo itself remains a bustling local centre, silversmiths still practicing their fine work outside these forts to offer unique mementos of a special place in Africa.
The Quirimbas Archipelago stretches from Pemba (the capital of Cabo Delgado Province) to the Rovuma River, which forms the natural frontier between Tanzania and Mozambique. The area has never been developed and remains an unexplored tourist paradise.
The southernmost 11 of these coral islands and a vast expanse of mainland forest are included in the Quirimbas National Park - a conservation effort to preserve and protect the area.
The 5-star secluded resort Quilálea, “the undiscovered island” rests in the marine sanctuary with Sencar Island in the Quirimbas Archipelago. Quilálea, with only 9 luxury Villas, is 12 kms from the mainland town of Quissanga and 55 kms north of Pemba. The island is 34 hectares in area and lies alongside a deep channel with direct access to the Indian Ocean.
Two more resorts are opening in the magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago. At Matemo Island Resort 24 luxurious thatched chalets are under construction. The island will be accessed from Pemba by a 20 minute light aircraft transfer. Medjumbe Island Resort is on a tiny, quaint island teeming with fascinating bird life, including the Black Heron. Game fish including marlin, sailfish, dogtooth tuna, mackerel, various species of kingfish and the infamous bonefish can be found here. Medjumbe Island, only one kilometre in length and 500 metres in width is close to the famous St Lazarus Banks and is accessed from Matemo Island with a 45 minute boat transfer. The Quirimbas Archipelago is a most unique area of Mozambique.
POWER
220 V AC, 50 cycles.
Road
Road access is possible from all neighbouring countries except Tanzania; good paved roads from South Africa and Zimbabwe. The condition of roads in Mozambique is poor and banditry along major highways threatens the safety of road travellers. Travel outside Maputo often requires four-wheel drive vehicles. There is a daily bus service from Maputo to Johannesburg and good bus links to other South African cities. A minibus service runs between Maputo and towns in Swaziland, crossing the border at Namaacha.
It is advisable to carry water and food on long journeys. Bus travel is the cheapest form of transport.
Health
Malaria in Mozambique
It is imperative that you obtain malaria prophylactics before entering Mozambique. When purchasing these, please tell your doctor or pharmacist that you intend visiting Mozambique. Whatever prophylactics you use, remember to complete the course as directed after leaving the malaria area. If you suffer from side effects, try taking your malaria prophylactics at night after dinner. Resistance to prophylactics is widespread so the best way to avoid getting malaria is to avoid being bitten. Take precautionary measures to prevent contact with mosquitoes, like: sleeping under a bed net or in a room/tent with mosquito proofing (remember to keep the flaps zipped at all times); spraying your accommodation with insecticide; making use of a mosquito repelling lotion or stick; and wearing long sleeved clothing, trousers and socks when outside at night.
Other precautions
No inoculations for smallpox, cholera or yellow fever are required unless you are coming from an infected area. This could change and you should check with the Mozambique Embassy when you obtain your visa.
However, travel clinics generally recommend that visitors should take precautions against yellow fever, cholera, tetanus, diptheria, polio, typhoid, smallpox, malaria and hepatitis A, particularly if you will be in the country for more than three weeks. If you are staying in lodges which have a good supply of water you should not encounter these problems.
Medical Services
There are private clinics, hospitals and pharmacies in most large towns, but you may need the help of someone who speaks Portuguese to communicate your needs. It is recommended you carry a good supply of medicines you may need, as well as a first aid kit. Doctors expect cash payment, so ensure your medical insurance covers your trip to Mozambique.
NATIONAL EMERGENCY NUMBERS
All services - 493924 (Maputo only)
Police - 119
Ambulance - 117
Fire - 198
What to Pack
- Generally, casual comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year.
- The following is a suggested list of clothing and accessories:
- Long sleeved shirts/blouses
- Extra passport photos
- Short sleeved shirts or T-shirts
- Vaccination certificates
- 2 pairs trousers or 1 pair and 1 skirt
- Money and traveller's cheques
- 1-2 pairs shorts
- Tracksuit pants
- Personal toiletries and towel
- Heavy sweater
- Water bottle
- Light sweater watch (inexpensive)
- Underwear sunglasses (inexpensive)
- Hat torch and spare batteries
- Water/windproof jacket
- Small sewing kit
- Boots or trainers
- Washing soap for clothes
- Sandals or thongs
- Plastic bags
- Swimsuit small
- Scrubbing brush
- Sleeping bag, sleep sheet and roll mat
- Penknife (Must be packed in Cargo luggage)
- Passport (plus photocopy)
- Toilet paper
- Music tapes (our vehicles are equipped with stereos)
- Light cotton tops and cotton trousers/shorts in summer
- Long-sleeved blouses/shirts for game drives, which will protect you from the sun and from mosquitoes
- Fleece or sweater and a warm jacket for game drives
- Swimwear, snorkel, mask, fins, sun lotion
- A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Sandals, especially to protect feet against razor clams on Bazaruto Archipelago
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera film and batteries (these are not easily found in Mozambique)
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