Mozambique

Mozambique is located on the south eastern coast of Africa and is bordered by Tanzania to the North, South Africa and Swaziland to the South, Zimbabwe to the West and Zambia and Malawi to the northwest. This area of Africa was explored by Vasco da Gama in 1498, and later colonized by Portugal in 1505. Five centuries as a Portuguese colony then came to a close with Mozambique's independence in 1975. A prolonged civil war (1977 – 1992) severely hindered the country's subsequent development, although politically it now appears to be reasonably stable. However, although Mozambique’s economy is growing at a much improved rate, it is still considered one of the planet's poorest and most underdeveloped countries.

There is no shortage of interesting things to see and do in Mozambique, and attractions are plentiful. However, outside of the capital city, facilities and services for tourism remain limited.  Nevertheless Mozambique should be regarded as an up and coming holiday destination, and many areas in the country are now deservedly becoming top tourism hotspots, with luxurious and exclusive beach lodges. 

The capital of Mozambique is Maputo in the south, which has regular flights from Johannesburg and Nairobi.  The beautiful sandy islands of Bazaruto and Benguerra lie just off the coast from Vilanculos in the south of the country, while in the far north is the exclusive Quirimbas Archipelago, a chain of 32 idyllic coral islands, off the mainland from Pemba. There are limited safari game viewing opportunities in the country since the game reserves are not long established so the effects of poaching are still very noticeable and wildlife numbers are not at the same level as in neighbouring countries.

So far as AfricaAway is concerned, Mozambique is a perfect place for a beach holiday after a safari in neighbouring (and land-locked) Zambia, although getting here does involve going through distant Johannesburg. Mozambique is especially suitable for honeymooners, families, divers and water-sports enthusiasts, plus those looking for an exclusive retreat from the modern world. There is a large variety of activities and plenty of interesting marine wildlife to interact with - try snorkelling with whale sharks, swimming with dolphins or diving with manta rays for an unforgettable experience.