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Mozambique

Offering a unique historical and cultural heritage, spectacular landscapes, 2500km of coastline, scattered with endless coral reefs and tropical beaches.

A mecca for scuba and snorkel divers, fisherman, sun worshippers and adventure explorers. The pristine coast is one of the few unexplored pleasures of the Indian Ocean and hosts a dazzling display of marine life.

.. Maps   .. About Mozambique   .. When to Go   .. Currency

Trips to Mozambique in 2010 with Cederberg4x4

September      24 to 3 Oct         Friday to Sunday

About Mozambique

Situated on the East Coast of Africa, Mozambique is ranked 33rd in the world according to its size with 10 provinces. Mozambique's distinct local style consists of a vibrant blend of African, Arab and Portuguese influences and provides a refreshing contrast to the other countries in the Southern Africa region.

The passion for life can be seen on every corner of this diverse country, from Maputo's modern, bustling city streets and pulsating night life to the colourful markets and small fishing villages which dot the coast.

Of the cultural traditions imbued in colonial times, the remnants of a Mediterranean charm lives on. Food is in the Afro-Potuquese style and contrasts favourably with the British culinary tradition prevalent in the other countries in the region.

Mozambique has had a rough ride over the past few decades: colonial rule was followed by many years of civil war, devastating famine and natural disasters. However, since peace was agreed in 1992, the country has been piecing itself together once again and opening its doors to tourism.

Mozambique is three times the size of the United Kingdom. It is situated on the east coast of southern Africa between 11° and 27°S with a coastline of over 1,900 kms. It is bordered on the west by Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.

Population: 19.4 million (via UN, 2006)
Capital: Maputo
Area: 812,379 sq km (313,661 sq miles)
Major languages: Portuguese (official), Makua-Lomwe, Tsonga, Shona, Swahili
Major religions: Indiginous beliefs, Islam, Christianity
Monetary unit: 1 metical (plural meticais) = 100 centavos
Main exports: Seafood, cotton
International dialling code: +258

When to Go

The best times to visit are between May and November, when both rainfall and temperatures are at their lowest. It's also possible to travel during the early part of the warmer, rainy season from November to January (though be prepared for high temperatures, especially in January). If possible, avoid the height of the rains - from about February to March/April - as many roads become impassable and flooding is common in the south and centre. Around Easter, Christmas/New Year's and in August, Mozambique's southern coastal resorts become overrun with the vacationing neighbours and advance bookings are highly advisable.

Although it extends outside the tropics, in the extreme south the whole country has a typically tropical climate. The extensive coastal lowlands are warm to hot for most of the year, while the interior plateau and the hills along the border with Malawi and Zimbabwe are mild to warm even in the cooler dry season from April to September.

The warm Mozambique current flows southwards along the coast and is an important influence on the climate of the country. The whole country experiences a single rainy season at the time of high sun, when the intertropical belt of cloud and rain is farthest south.

Currency

Mozambique´s local currency is the Metical, however US dollars and SA Rand are widely accepted.
It is advisable to carry cash or traveller cheques as credit cards are not widely accepted and obtaining a cash advance on a credit card in a bank can be a costly and time consuming process.

What you can take into the country

Travellers to Mozambique may enter the country with the following items and not incur customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 250g tobacco

• perfume for personal use

• 750ml of spirits.

• Drugs are strictly prohibited and a permit is required for firearms and ammunition.

MALARIA IS A RISK THROUGHOUT THE YEAR IN THE WHOLE COUNTRY

Should you be travelling with Cederberg4x4 to Botswana, any other questions you might have will be answered at the pre-trip briefing that is held around 2 weeks prior to the trip.

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