Free from over-development and now safe to visit, Mozambique's
vast unexplored 2 500km coastline makes it a paradise for
sun and sea lovers. The coral reefs are some of the richest
in the world and home to a kaleidoscope of tropical fish,
while game fish abound in the deeper waters. This abundant
marine life and excellent visibility make it a mecca for
scuba divers, snorkellers and anglers from around the world.
Fast Facts
| Population: |
19 million |
| Capital: |
Maputu |
| Other major cities: |
Beira, Nampula |
| Currency: |
Meticais (Mt4 100 = R1.00) |
| Official language: |
Portuguese |
| Dialling code: |
+258 |
Weather & Climate
The best time to visit Mozambique is during the dry season
- April to October-with the averages temperatures
along the coast of 27ºC. The rainy season coincides
with the heat and humidity from November to March, with
average coastal temperatures of 31ºC.
Health
Visitors require a yellow fever certificate if travelling
from infected areas. Malaria is a risk throughout the year
in the whole country and is reported to be resistant to
chloroquine. It is recommended that visitors take precautions
against typhoid, bilharzia, hepatitis and cholera. Consult
your doctor or a travel clinic before you leave for suitable
prophylaxis.
Food
Typical Mozambique cuisine is delicious. It basically consists
of some traditional Portuguese dishes added to Arabic influences
and Indian spices. Coconut milk, cashew (caju-nut) and peanuts
are used on curries and vegetarian dishes. Mozambique is
also very well known for its variety of seafood.
Currency / exchange
The Mozambique monetary unit is the Metical (MTZ). There
are coins of 500, 1000 and 5000 Meticais and notes of 5000,
10'000, 50'000 and 100'000. Exchange of
currency may be done at banks, exchange houses and hotels.
However, US-dollar and Rand are current currency in Mozambique.
Exchanging traveler cheques is very expensive in Mozambique.
Major hotels and some bank accept credit card transactions
but you will be charged a commission.
Communications
The international dialling code for Mozambique is +258.
City codes are also required. Outgoing international calls,
other than for South Africa, must go through the operator.
Two mobile phone GSM 900/1800 networks provide limited coverage
in and around Maputo, Beira, some coastal locations and
a few other isolated towns.
Electricity
Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. The rounded three-pin
plug is common, particularly near the border with South
Africa and in Maputo. Two round- and flat-pin plugs are
also found.
Safety
Many unexploded landmines lie scattered about the country,
and visitors are advised that it is extremely risky to wander
off well-travelled paths and roads. Women should not walk
alone on any beach in Mozambique except on the islands.
People, Religion & Language
The official language is Portuguese, however English is
largely spoken all over Mozambique as well as different
ethnic dialects. Religions are mainly Roman Catholic, Muslim
and Hindu. Many also follow traditional beliefs.
Time
Local time is GMT +2.
Photography
Visitors should be cautious about taking photographs of
military or government related subjects, such as government
buildings, bridges, soldiers and airports. |
