Mozambique is one of the undiscovered countries of Africa with a massive range of things to see and do.
Mozambique is a large country in Southern Africa with a large coastline of the Indian Ocean. It is a nation with a fledging tourist industry but many things to see that only a few ever get to see. Mozambique’s beaches along the Indian Ocean are stunning and full of marine life. Perhaps the best place in Africa to explore the stunning Indian Ocean is the historic and dreamy island of Zanzibar in Tanzania.
Most people who visit Africa go to top destinations like South Africa and Kenya, but there are many stunning countries to explore in Africa. One of the best countries to visit in West Africa is Senegal, while Zimbabwe has an ancient lost city called Great Zimbabwe.
What To Know Of The Southern African Country Of Mozambique
Mozambique has had a difficult history since independence. It was colonized by the Portuguese (and Portuguese remains the official language of the nation). Colonization started in the early 1500s and ended with independence in 1975. But soon after independence, the country fell into civil war until 1992, which devastated the country.
- Independence: 1975
- Official Language: Portuguese
- Population: Around 30 Million
Today there is still an ongoing insurgency in the northernmost parts of the country, and it is one of the poorest countries in the world. That being said, the country has been growing since 2001.
While the country has many natural resources, its economy is very undeveloped, and tourism is almost non-existent, although it is growing. This makes it a destination for intrepid travelers with experience traveling. As of 2022, the U.S. Department of State had a Level 2, “Exercise Increased Caution” advice for Mozambique.
The capital and largest city of Mozambique is Maputo.
What There Is To See & Do In Mozambique
Mozambique is full of stunning landscapes and coastlines with rich cultures and traditions. For intrepid travelers, this is something of virgin territory with very few other tourists. People who get there can discover dune-fringed beaches, stunning turquoise waters, well-preserved corals, archipelagos, colonial-style architecture, and vast tracts of the African bush.
However, travelers need to be prepared that there is very little tourist infrastructure – or infrastructure in general. Travelers need to have patience with long bus rides, bad roads, etc. But there is an accompanying sense of adventure.
In parts of the country, it is popular for international divers to come and see whale sharks, manta rays, and marine biodiversity. Mozambique also has a number of national parks – one of the most notable of which is the Gorongosa National Park.
Gorongosa National Park occupies the southern end of the Great African Rift Valley. It is in the center of the country and has a variety of distinct ecosystems. It has dry forests, savannahs, and rainforests. Unfortunately, the civil war and poaching have led to many animals being killed.
Guided Tours Around Mozambique
For most travelers, the best way to visit Mozambique for the first time is with a guided tour. There are a number of tour companies offering guided tours around Mozambique. Safari Bookings offers a range of extended tours lasting from four days to 10 days. These are a great way to get out and explore the country in relative comfort and hassle-free. Some of the tours explore the neighboring countries as well – like South Africa and Eswatini.
Tours Maputo offers tours of the capital city and the surrounding area.
Day Safari From Maputo
It is possible to go on a safari close to the capital Maputo. One tour they offer explores the Maputo Elephant Reserve, only 75 kilometers from the city. The tour package includes entrance fees, lunch, and an experienced guide.
Cost Of Safari:
- 2 Persons: $225 Per Person
- 3 Persons: $190 Per Person
The safari starts at dawn and heads to the reserve that is now teeming with elephants and has a unique beachside setting. Other animals in the park include crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, hippos, monkeys, and other African animals. There is the chance of seeing lions and other wild cats.
The safari includes pick up and drop off anywhere in Maputo City.
Traveling in Africa with guided tours is typically reasonably expensive. However, it is possible to backpack on a budget through Africa. One of the best ways to see the wildlife in Southern Africa is to hire a car and enjoy a self-driving tour of the stunning nation of Namibia.
Source : The Travel
