Boasting the third longest coastline on mainland Africa – 2,750km of mostly deserted powder-white sand beaches, picturesque lagoons, untouched islands, and hideaway archipelagos, and so much more – Mozambique has been off the radar for years despite its rich tourism potential and only few people have discovered the breathtaking landscapes, enchanting scenery and serene surrounding.
Located in Southern Africa, Mozambique shares border with South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania, while the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean borders it on the east. A land mass of 801,537km² makes it the 36th largest country in the world and such a huge tourism potential, yet Mozambique has been a well-kept secret known only to discerning travelers, especially those from South Africa.
Mozambique enjoys a tropical climate with two seasons each lasting about 6 months. The wet season runs from October to March, while the dry season lasts from April to September. While the country can be visited all year round, the rains are heavy between January and March sometimes resulting washed out roads and flooding in the central and southern parts.
Although the official language is Portuguese, the Arabs were the first to visit the area, and the name Mozambique is derived from Moussa Ben Mbiki, an Arab trader who had settled on an island which the Portuguese referred to as Ilha de Moçambique (Island of Mozambique). Until 1898, Ilha de Moçambique in the Nampula district, north of the country was the capital of the colony before it was moved south to Maputo, then known as Lourenço Marques.
Apart from Maputo City, Mozambique has 10 other provinces which are: Inhambane, Nampula, Sofala, Niassa, Maputo, Gaza, Zambezia, Cabo Delgado, Manica and Tete, and each one has its set of interesting and unique attractions. From coast to inland, Mozambique offers exotic wildlife such as the rare dugong. Its landscape is dotted with colonial buildings and landmarks that tell of the country’s history.
The uncharted islands,pristine beaches and warm turquoise watersof the Mozambican Channel, along with the slew of exotic resorts and accommodations make Mozambique a significant honeymoon choiceand relatively cheaper alternative to the more popular and costlier destinations.
In terms of adventure, the waves of the ocean offer a world of water excitement with snorkeling, scuba diving, dhow safari, fishing, island hopping, and much more, while Mozambique has established itself as a paradise for food lovers and one of Africa’s greatest food destination, thanks to the strong influence of its multicultural heritage.
To cap it up, Mozambicans are one of the friendliest people and it’s a big delight to explore the culture, music, art and social life.
Discover Mozambique, a magical mosaic of culture and beauty. That’s how it has been described, and we can’t help but agree!
