Mozambique is huge country and a perfect destination ideal for potential travelers interested in culture, wildlife and coasts as well as for those planning romantic honeymoons or family holidays with innumerable outdoor activities in the tropical sunshine and warm blue-green waters of the Indian Ocean. Thousands of miles of untouched beaches perfect for just lazing around on, golden nature, lush green forests, national parks, pristine coral reefs, enormous sand dunes and freshwater lakes are what make Mozambique an authentic tropical island.
Covering over 800,000 square kilometers and inhabited by an estimated population of 20 million, the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site Mozambique Island is located in Southern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and Tanzania. Formerly a Portuguese colony; it is now an independent nation (since 1975) where Afro-Arab, Goan, and European cultures converge. The country is generally a low-lying plateau broken up by 25 sizable rivers that flow into the Indian Ocean; the largest being the Zambezi that provides access to Central Africa.
Mozambique is essentially a hot country, the climate ranging from tropical to subtropical with the average annual temperature of 28C. The seasons are nearly indistinguishable but most people generally speak of two seasons: a wet (summer season) and a dry (winter season). During the winter months, April to September, the weather is cool and dry, thus providing the most comfortable tenure for travel. In summer (October to April) the weather becomes hot and rainy characterized with high humidity.
Maputo, the lush capital city of Mozambique is home to many attractions, including its Central Railway Station, the most famous structure designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1910 that features marble pillars, wrought iron work and a large central dome. Maputo's most important landmark is the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Conceiao which was the nucleus of the original settlement. Other Maputo attractions include broad avenues lined with acacias and jacarandas, Portuguises-style buildings, vibrant markets, several street cafes and bars as well as excellent nightlife and discos. History enthusiasts will enjoy Maputo's Museum of the Revolution or the historic lighthouse on Inhaca Island.
If you are seeking a relaxing lazy day on the beach head to the small town of Xai Xai located some 200 km north of Maputo, boasting a wide range of shops, restaurants and most of all superb scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. Nearby you can find fresh water lakes with the best kayaking, paddle skiing and surfing experiences.
Activities in Mozambique are plenty and diverse, including hiking tours, Safari drives, dune boarding, pony trekking, canoeing, water skiing, scuba diving and snorkeling, fishing, swimming and mountain climbing.
Mozambique is also famous for its rich flora and fauna and has great vegetation in the various parts of the country. The forests of Mozambique are full of such plants as mahogany, ebony ironwood and others, as well as many species of trees. The fauna boasts various unique species of animals, including hippopotami and crocodiles, many species of elephants, lions and zebras.
Mozambique Vacations and Hotels
Nestled in the warm shallow waters of the Indian Ocean, the still undiscovered gem of Mozambique is one of the genuine African greatest hotspots with rich history, magical offshore archipelagos and endless accommodation option. Though Mozambique is on its way to become a perfect tourist destination, it still offers something for every visitor to enjoy: from historical attractions and natural wonders to loads of land and water activities. There is so much to see and experience in the continental Mozambique and offshore islands that a visit or two is far from being enough to discover all the magic of this spectacularly beautiful island.Southern Mozambique is home to many magical and exceptional beaches with Africa's best kept secrets waiting to be discovered. Those looking for beaches should head straight to Vilanculos, where you will find golden beaches fringed by swaying palms and clear turquoise waters of one of the most untouched corners of the planet. And if you are a nature enthusiast, a visit to the Bazaruto Archipelago, a protected National Park, is a must. There are no roads, no shops or tourist attractions in this picturesque spot, the only thing the five pristine islands offer is the incredible natural beauty. Mozambique is also a perfect place to begin or conclude a safari in southern or eastern Africa.
With many Mozambique lodges, museums, restaurants, beaches, an upbeat atmosphere, overflowing markets activities and sights to see, a Mozambique vacation is all about relaxation and fun!
Mozambique is an ideal "getaway" for unforgettable family vacationers and romantic honeymooners, offering excellent accommodation options, from basic self-catering bungalows, game and safari lodges, motels, bush camps and small guest-houses to luxury intimate beach resorts, spas and world-class hotels, distributed in the capital Maputo and in different regions.
The superior Polana Hotel, one of Africa's finest five-star hotels situated in the heart of the capital Maputo, is a stunning and gracious haven recalling the elegance and splendor of old colonial times. The hotel features 168 spacious rooms, 9 executive suites and 9 garden suites, all with modern amenities and state-of-the-art facilities. You can find several restaurants with stylish international and piquant local cuisine, a superb well-equipped gym, conference center, one of Africa's most elegantly designed and panoramically luxuriant swimming pools, as well as a vibrant entertainment schedule.
Another best-known hotel in Mozambique is the Pemba Beach Hotel situated in the quiet town of Pemba, boasting 102 elegantly furnished charming rooms with private balconies overlooking the azure Indian Ocean. The idyllic Pemba Beach Resort Hotel represents the fusion of Arabic and African inspired architecture, offering guests a wide range of adventures and water activities, tennis courts, including sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, diving off coral reefs and many others.
Mozambique is a real paradise-with lots of sunshine, silky-sand beaches, superb cuisine and warm welcoming locals. One of the worst things about a Mozambique holiday is having to leave.