Mozambique
Capital:
Maputo
Official Language: English
Religions:
60% Traditional Beliefs, 30% Christian and 10% Muslim
Currency:
Metical = 100 centavos
Placements: Lake
Niassa Lodge
Map
Background
Mozambicans are putting their shattering past behind them and are rebuilding
their country at a remarkable pace. And there's a fair number of things to see,
including stunning beaches, World Heritage sites, funky colonial architecture
and colourful local culture.
Special Events
Major events.
Climate
Mozambique's south coast offers a pleasurable expanse
from April to November of consistently little rainfall and moderately hot 20 to
29°C (68-85°F) days. Closer towards the centre of the coast things get a bit
wetter but with the middle of the year still an optimum time to mosey around.
The mercury climbs as you head inland and towards the northwest; the moister
months from October to April can get a bit stuffy.
Travel Info
Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique (LAM) and TAP Air Portugal) fly into Maputo. But
if you're coming from Europe or a distant part of Africa, the cheapest option is
often to fly to Johannesburg (South Africa) and take the bus or train from there
to Maputo. LAM and South African Airways fly between Jo'burg and Maputo, while
Pelican Air flies between Jo'burg and Vilankulo. If you're coming from Tanzania,
LAM flies from Dar es Salaam to Maputo, and from Mtwara (in southern Tanzania)
to the town of Pemba (in northern Mozambique), avoiding the adventurous land
border crossing. The airport departure tax for international flights is 20.00.
The best land crossings are over the South African border. There are daily
trains between Johannesburg and Maputo, taking about 15 hours each way. There
are also minibuses running between Maputo and various South African towns, and a
daily direct luxury bus connecting Maputo and Johannesburg. Minibuses also run
between Maputo and towns in Swaziland, crossing the border at Namaacha,
Mozambique.
Other border crossings are less convenient and less reliable. You can cross
between Palma (at the very northeastern corner of Mozambique) and Mwambo,
Tanzania, but there's very little transport south of Palma and the roads are
terrible. The main crossing is at Cassacatiza, northwest of Tete. From Tete,
take any Moatize chapa over the bridge past the SOS compound to the petrol
station, where you'll find chapas to Matema. From Matema, there is infrequent
transport for the 200km (124mi) to Cassacatiza. There are two main crossings
between Mozambique and Zimbabwe: Nyamapanda on the Tete Corridor, and Machipanda
on the Beira-Harare Road.
Visas
All visitors need visas, which are good for up to three months, and proof of
onward travel.
Safety
Terrorism
Mozambique shares with other countries in
Africa a threat from terrorism to visibly Western and British interests. You
should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which
could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
Crime
You should not walk alone on the beach anywhere in
Mozambique at any time. In the past year, there have been several serious
attacks, including rape, against British nationals and other westerners walking
on beaches at Beira, Vilanculos, Inhambane, and other tourist centres. Beaches
may look isolated and safe, especially on offshore islands but they are not
policed. Much of the Mozambican population lives along the coast, even in remote
areas.
Robbery, often using knives and firearms, is prevalent on the streets of
Maputo, and is on the increase in other towns. Use well-lit, populated streets,
and avoid walking anywhere at night. If attacked do not resist.
There
have been several incidents of bag snatching from tourists and thefts when bags
have been left unattended on buses. Safeguard and avoid displaying valuables and
cash. Deposit them in hotel safes, where practical.
Vehicle theft, occasionally at gunpoint, can occur anywhere.
Avoid
isolated picnic spots.
Local Travel
Only travel by road
outside Maputo and other major cities in hours of daylight. As far as possible
keep to major metalled roads in reasonable states of repair, and travel in
convoy if you can in rural areas. Fuel (petrol & diesel) is often only
available in major towns.
Road Safety
Many roads can become
impassable in the rainy season (November - April). Vehicles should be stocked
with emergency supplies and be properly prepared for difficult conditions at all
times. Driving and vehicle standards are extremely poor.
There are still
unexploded mines on little-used roads around the country. Seek the advice of the
local Mozambican authorities if you intend to stray from major
routes.
Overland travel on public transport can be hazardous due to the
poor mechanical condition of many vehicles and the bad state of many
roads.
If you are visiting Mozambique for 90 days or less, your UK
driving licence is sufficient. Those staying over 90 days require a temporary
Mozambican licence, which is valid for up to a year.
Air
Safety
The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject
to an operating ban or restrictions within the community.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
You should carry identity documents at all times. You should not hand over
your passport to anyone other than for inspection and should ensure it is
returned to you. You should also keep separate photocopies of your passport and
other important documents.
Heavy penalties including long term
imprisonment and large fines are imposed on those caught drug smuggling. Local
prison conditions are harsh.
It is illegal to photograph public buildings
in Mozambique.
Health
Malaria is endemic. Before travelling you should seek
medical advice on suitable anti-malarial medication and after arrival, take
precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Diseases caused by
unsanitary conditions are common throughout Mozambique. Cholera and other
water-born diseases are prevalent particularly during the rainy season. You
should drink bottled or boiled and filtered water and eat only where food has
been thoroughly cooked and basic hygiene precautions have been
taken.
There is a high level of HIV and AIDS in the country; you should
be alert to the dangers of unprotected sex.
Hospital facilities are
generally poor. In cases of serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to
South Africa or the UK may be necessary.
Injections required
Immunisations advised
Diptheria/Tetanus,
Poliomyelitis, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow fever
Immunisations that
maybe required
Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Meningococcal
Malaria Yes
Reciprocal Health Care None
