Destinations
Traveling to Mozambique
Introduction

Mozambique is a southeastern African country with over 2,500 kilometers of coastline along the Indian Ocean, making it a prime destination for marine enthusiasts. It shares land borders with six countries: Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, and Eswatini and South Africa to the southwest. This geographical diversity gives Mozambique a unique combination of beach and bush experiences.
What makes Mozambique truly stand out is its own national parks and South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park, which is only about an hour’s drive from Maputo, where Maputo Dive Center is based. This allows visitors to experience the “beach and bush” combination, where you can dive Mozambique’s vibrant coral reefs and encounter marine life in the morning, then cross into a safari park to see Africa’s Big Five – lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and leopards – later the same day.
While many global destinations offer exceptional diving, Mozambique’s proximity to safari parks makes it one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy both underwater and wildlife adventures in the same day.
How to Get to Mozambique

Mozambique has several international airports that serve as gateways to different parts of the country, including Maputo Airport (MPM), Vilankulo Airport (VNX), Nampula Airport (APL), Nacala Airport (MNC), and Pemba Airport (POL). Here’s a breakdown of each airport and its international flight connections:
Flying into Maputo International Airport (MPM)
Maputo International Airport is the main entry point for travelers visiting Mozambique, offering the widest range of international connections. It’s the best option for those heading to dive in Ponta do Ouro or Inhaca, embarking on a safari in Kruger Park, or beginning or concluding their trip in the capital, Maputo.
International Flights to Maputo
Below are the suggested routes based on where you are traveling from:
- From Europe:
- TAP Air Portugal (Direct from Lisbon)
- Turkish Airlines (Connecting via Istanbul)
- Qatar Airways (Connecting via Doha)
- Ethiopian Airlines (Connecting via Addis Ababa)
- From the United States:
- South African Airways (Connecting via Johannesburg)
- Qatar Airways (Connecting via Doha)
- Ethiopian Airlines (Connecting via Addis Ababa)
- Turkish Airlines (Connecting via Istanbul)
- From Latin America (Including Brazil):
- South African Airways (Connecting via Johannesburg)
- TAAG Angola Airlines (Connecting via Luanda)
- TAP Air Portugal (Connecting via Lisbon)
Domestic Connections
Once in Maputo, domestic flights connect you to various parts of Mozambique, such as:
- Inhambane: Gateway to Tofo.
- Vilankulos: Gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago.
- Nampula: Gateway to Mozambique Island and northern Mozambique.
Alternative Options: Vilankulos Airport
Vilankulos International Airport is an ideal entry point for travelers heading to the Bazaruto Archipelago or beginning their journey in Tofo before continuing south to Ponta do Ouro or Inhaca Island for diving or a Kruger Park safari. Vilankulos places you just offshore from the Bazaruto Archipelago, and offers a more convenient option than flying into Maputo, which would involve a much longer drive north. Moreover, Tofo is about a 5 hour drive south by car from Vilankulos, making Vilankulos a practical entry point to the full day’s drive from Maputo to Tofo.
For those visiting Vilanculos and or Tofo in combination with southern destinations like Ponta do Ouro, Inhaca or Kruger Park, the best route is to fly internationally into Vilankulos and drive south. You can then depart from Maputo International Airport. This itinerary works equally in reverse, however, we recommend traveling north to south, as ending your trip with a safari is a great way to off-gas after multiple dives.
International Flights to Vilankulos:
- From Johannesburg (Airlink)
“Note: flights into and out of Vilankulos are limited to Johannesburg, South Africa, which may restrict your options for international connections to your home country.
Flying into Nampula Airport
Nampula Airport serves as the main gateway to northern Mozambique and is the best option for travelers heading to Mozambique Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or exploring the northern coastal regions like Nacala and Pemba. The area is known for its rich cultural history and stunning marine environments.
International Flights to Nampula
International flights to Nampula are limited, with the most common connections via major African hubs:
- From Kenya (Kenya Airways)
- From Johannesburg (Airlink)
Local Language and Communication

In Mozambique, Portuguese is the official language, but you’ll also encounter a rich diversity of local dialects. Depending on the region, you may hear Tsonga dialects such as Changane in the south, Sena in the central areas, and Makua-Lomwe dialects in the north.
English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but outside of these zones, English speakers may be rare. If you’re visiting rural areas or engaging with local communities, learning basic Portuguese phrases can be very helpful. Other European and Asian languages are rarely spoken.
Visa and Entry Requirements

Visa Exempt Countries
Travelers from the following countries can enter Mozambique without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, with only a MT 650 entry tax payable upon arrival at the airport or land border post. The tax can be paid in Mozambican Meticais (MZN), US Dollars (USD), or South African Rand (ZAR), with approximate values of 10 USD or 200 ZAR. Ensure that USD notes are from 2013 or later and free of markings. While payment by card is generally accepted, it’s recommended to carry cash in case the card system is down. See Section 5 below for more info on locally accepted cards.
- Belgium
- Canada
- China
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Ghana
- Indonesia
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Norway
- Portugal
- Republic of Korea
- Russian Federation
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Singapore
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- The Netherlands
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
Mozambique eVisa System
For travelers from non-exempt countries, you can apply for a 30-day single entry visa via the Government of Mozambique’s portal here, at a cost of approximately USD 155. The process may take up to 5 days for approval. If the visa is approved, you’ll pay for it on arrival at the airport or border. While payment by card is generally accepted, it’s recommended to carry cash in case the card system is down. See Section 5 below for more info on locally accepted cards.
You will need the following documents for the eVisa:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Passport copy with at least 6 months of validity
- Proof of financial means
- [Proof of paid hotel reservation or a Termo de Responsabilidade from Maputo Dive Center]
- Return flight ticket
Entry and Exit Stamping Requirements
It is mandatory to have your passport stamped upon both entry and exit from Mozambique. Failing to do so could result in hefty fines, so ensure that immigration stamps your passport at all border points.
Additionally, all travelers must have at least 6 months of validity on their passport and a minimum of 3 blank pages.
COVID-19 Restrictions
All COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but it is recommended to stay updated on health guidelines prior to traveling.
Money

Cash
The official currency in Mozambique is the Metical (MZN or often abbreviated as MT). ATMs are found throughout larger cities, but you may not find them in more remote beach towns or islands. It’s a good idea to withdraw sufficient Meticais in the city or at the airport before heading to your diving destination.
Debit and Credit Cards
Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in major cities and most formal restaurants and shops in beach towns. However, American Express and Diners Club are rarely accepted. It’s a good idea to check with your bank before your trip to ensure your cards will work abroad.
Currency Exchange Tips
USD, Euros, and South African Rand (ZAR) can be exchanged easily at banks, airports, and official exchange houses (called “cambios”). Exchanging money on the streets is not recommended.
Make sure the USD notes are printed in 2013 or later and are free of markings, as older or damaged notes may not be accepted. Carry small notes as most officials and businesses often lack change.
You can check exchange rates before traveling using platforms like XE.com.
Health & Safety Guidelines

Health Precautions
- Vaccinations: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from, or transiting through, Yellow Fever regions. This includes passengers transiting through Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines flights. If you do not have the certificate, you may be required to get vaccinated upon arrival at the airport. Be sure to check the WHO website for the latest health advisories before your trip.
- Sun Protection: Mozambique’s tropical climate can be intense. For outdoor activities, especially diving, use sunscreen, wear a hat, sunglasses (preferably with a strap to secure them on your head while riding the boat), and a UV-protective shirt.
- Motion Sickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, bring appropriate medication. Maputo Dive Center can also provide motion sickness tablets for a fee, if required.
- Drinking Water: Avoid drinking tap water, Opt for bottled water instead.
- Malaria Prevention: Malaria is present in Mozambique, particularly during the wet season. Although mosquitos are not active during the day, they emerge at night. Precautionary steps include:
- Moving indoors in the evening
- Wearing long sleeves and pants to cover exposed skin
- Using insect repellent
Consider taking malaria prophylaxis like [Doxycycline] (check with your doctor before starting any medication). Alternatively, you can buy malaria medication locally to take home, as symptoms can appear up to two weeks after infection. It’s an easy 3-day treatment if needed. Maputo Dive Center can assist in acquiring these medications for a fee.
- Healthcare: Public health services in Mozambique are limited. Private clinics and hospitals are available only in large cities like Maputo, Nampula, and Nacala. Make sure you have travel health insurance that covers private care.
Safety Precautions
Mozambique is a relatively safe travel destination, with lower crime rates compared to other African countries. However, petty crime can occur, especially in larger cities. Here are some tips:
- Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in urban areas or on empty beaches.
- Do not display valuables such as electronics, jewelry, or large sums of cash.
- When driving in cities, keep car doors locked and windows closed. Be cautious about offering rides to strangers.
- Lock up valuables and ensure doors are secured at night to prevent opportunistic theft.