Mozambique

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

Two main seasons, one wet and the other dry, divide the climatic year. The wet season, from November to March, has a monthly average temperature of between 26.6°C and 29.4°C (80°F and 85°F), with cooler temperatures in the interior uplands. The dry season lasts from April to October and has June and July temperatures averaging 18.4° to 20°C (65° - 68°F). The average annual rainfall is greatest (about 56 inches) over the western hills and the central areas, and lowest in the Zambezi lowlands averaging 16 to 32 inches.

Climate Chart for Maputo

For today's weather forecast see     CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

Visas are required by all nationals and passports must be valid for at least 6 months and is valid for a stay of 1 month , which can be extended in the Maputo.

Mozambican visa regulations (December 08, 2004) The Mozambican government has advised that ALL persons travelling to the country are to obtain visas prior to their departure as entry visas will no longer be issued upon arrival at any border post or airport, effective immediately.

Listing of Mozambique Embassies, Consulates, Tourist Offices and/or High Commission located around the world

MONEY

Official Currency:    Metical (MT)=100 centqavos
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

There are no restrictions on the import of foreign currency but the import and export of local currency is not allowed. Travellers cheques are widely accepted and readily exchanged but to avoid commission they are best taken in IS Dollars. The South African Rand is widely accepted as a form of currency and accommodation prices are often quoted in Rand. Many up-market hotels insists on payment in foreign currency so have a reasonable amount of cash.

Major hotels and some bank accept credit card transactions but you will be charged a commission.

BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS

Banking:    Monday to Friday: 0730-1115 and 1500-1630
Shops:     Monday to Friday: 0900-1300 and 1500-1830.     Saturday: 0900-1300
Governmental offices:     Monday to Friday: 0900-1200 and 1400-1730

LOCAL TIME

Mozambique is two hours ahead of GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:	International Flights from Europe to Mozambique Click for flights from Europe with KLM LAM  From Zimbabwe & South Africa Domestic Flights LAM The national airline, operates a domestic service between Maputo and Beira, Nampula, Pemba and Tete. Flights are very often delayed or cancelled.
Railways / Train Services:	There is a rail link between Beira and Tete and from Mocambique and Macala, via Monapo to Nampula and Lichinga. A train service also operations from Maputo to Goba and Ressano Garcia and onwards to Zimbabwe. The service can be overcrowded and if you want a seat you will need to book in advance. More Info - Central East African Railways Company Ltd. Mozambique Railways (CFM) - National passenger and freight railways in Mozambique - website in Portugese
Public Transport:	There are daily regular bus services covering most the main towns and this is the most inexpensive way to see the country. Intercape Mainliner Luxury Inter City Transport provider covering Southern Africa. Travel in the lap of excellance with Intercape Mainliner.
Road:	The Africa Guide's recommended Map Globetrotter Travel Map of Mozambique  (Maps Worldwide) Published by New Holland Publishers (U Series Globetrotter Travel Maps This travel map of Mozambique is part of a series of enlarged, fold-out maps which allow the traveller to locate cities, towns, major roads and scenic routes, airports, holiday resorts, parks and nature reserves, places of interest and other features. The reverse side incorporates area maps and town and city plans of the major centres, highlighting historical monuments, key buildings, and areas of special interest Other Maps & Atlases for Sale
	Driving is on the left hand side and and International Driving Licence is required. Main roads are tarred and in reasonable condition but if travelling on gravel roads you may require four wheel drive. Never drive off-road, there many remaining land mines left from the civil war. There are only a few car hire firms in Maputo and it is advisable to book in advance.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ELECTRICAL POWER

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Mozambique, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

	Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected while you're away.
	- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies, single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get your quote and policy on-line....
	Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel insurance needs. .
	Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55 years of age.