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Mozambique is an exotic paradise of long sandy beaches fringed by swaying palms, turquoise seas, a mix of fascinating cultures, and a perfect example of laid-back tropical island life. The country borders on South Africa and Swaziland to the south, Zimbabwe to the west, and Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania to the north.
A popular destination for 4x4 holidaymakers from South Africa, tourism to Mozambique is on the rise because of its pristine natural beauty and the fact that it has been untrampled by hordes of tourists. Most of the country’s attractions are located along the southern coastline, or are discreetly tucked away on unique islands like the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Mozambique’s southern coastline also regularly plays host to a wide variety of marine creatures. Humpback whales, dolphins and whale sharks follow routes along these shores between certain months each year. Giant leatherback and loggerhead turtles nest in the sand dunes from October to March on an annual basis. The Bazaruto Archipelago is home to over 1 200 species of fish, and supports five marine turtle species – leatherback, loggerhead, green, hawksbill and Ridley. The largest remaining population of dugongs also survives in the Bazaruto Archipelago.
The East African coast commands some of the most pristine coral reefs in the world, and popular activities for visitors include snorkelling, scuba diving, big-game fishing, sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking and dhow cruises. And for the less active, simply hang in a hammock and get your nose stuck into a good book!
Mozambique embraces a cultural mix of Brazilian, Indian, Portuguese, Arabian and African influences, and this is evident in the architecture when you visit some of the original colonial towns. Mozambique Island has a fascinating town full of 17th and 18th century ruins of mosques, churches, palaces and colonial buildings. The island is a World Natural Heritage Site, and some of the Arab buildings date from the 12th century.
The official language spoken in Mozambique is Portuguese, however there are around 14 other indigenous languages spoken. Local people are proud and courteous, while white-faced local woman are a common sight – they make a paste of root extract from the nciro tree and use it as a moisturising sun protection mask on their faces. The highlight of local cuisine is mouth-watering seafood, most notably prawns, which are usually served with a peri-peri sauce.
Mozambique is fast becoming the rising star of African tourism – with dazzling beaches, world-class coastal resorts, superb seafood and an underwater spectacle that is hard to match; Mozambique is a paradise that should be on everyone’s “must do” list!
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