Top 20 experiences to enjoy in #MyMozambique
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting Mozambique, you know how our country sneaks into your heart. Mozambique becomes yours – #MyMozambique.
If you’re reliving the nostalgia of your Mozambican holidays, are planning your next trip as soon as you’re able or have always wanted to visit, journey with us online as we share our Top 20 #MyMozambique moments.
Here are our Top 20 favourite experiences that await you in Mozambique:
Bazaruto
Comprising five gorgeous islands off the coast of Vilanculos and Inhassoro, the Bazaruto Achipelago is the epitome of a tropical island paradise. The area was declared a protected marine park on 25 May 1971. The archipelago draws divers from across the world to swim amongst the thousands of species of tropical fish as well as avid birdwatchers.
The marine park was created to protect the only viable breeding population of Dugong within the western Indian Ocean. Additional attractions include horse riding, game fishing (catch and release), snorkelling, luxurious romantic resorts and dhow safaris.
Inhaca Island
This subtropical island off the East African coast is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Inhaca Island is around 52 km² and is home to over 300 bird species offering a natural playground of marine experiences, such as snorkelling, surfing and fishing.
Gorongosa National Park
Gorongosa National Park in the Great Rift Valley is arguably Mozambique’s most beloved park and one of Southern Africa’s most significant wilderness destinations. The wildlife population has increased dramatically in recent years and the park has become a favoured filming location for National Geographic documentaries.
Fort Sao Sebastian, Island of Mozambique
This is an absolute must-do for history buffs. Fort Sao Sebastian lies on the northern end of the Island of Mozambique and is the oldest complete fort still standing in sub-Saharan Africa. Initial construction on the fort began in 1558, and as you can imagine, there are many stories to be found within its walls.
Maputo Central Train Station
Another one for the history fanatics, this historic railway station was constructed over one hundred years ago. Today, it has been ranked by renowned international publications as one of the world’s most beautiful train stations.
Casa De Ferro (The iron house), Maputo
Designed to be the home to the governor-general many generations ago, but never occupied (understandable when you step inside on a hot day!), Casa De Ferro is a house constructed entirely of iron, designed by Gustav Eiffel, the designer of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The building was constructed in Belgium and then shipped over to Mozambique to be assembled in 1892. Today it’s an art gallery and houses an assortment of other odds and ends.
Saint Anthony Catholic Church, Maputo
Designed by Portuguese architect Cavreiro Nuno Lopes, the Saint Anthony Catholic Church or Paroquia Santo Antonio was built in the 1960s. Its unique conical shape resembles that of an inverted flower or a spinning carousel.
Museum of Natural History, Maputo
With records of animal migration, ancient pottery, and a modest ethnology exhibit, Maputo’s museum invites you into a world of intriguing displays. The museum is renowned for housing the only complete collection of elephant fetuses in the world. Even if you’re not a museum buff at heart, this one’s well worth the experience.
Tofo Beach
The curved Tofo Beach in southeastern Mozambique is a tourist favourite. Dolphins, whale sharks and migratory humpback whales can often be spotted frolicking from shore while two manta ray species, the reef manta ray and giant manta ray can also be seen here.
Maputo
No list would be complete without our fascinating and diverse capital city! Boasting Portuguese-styled colonial architecture, a historic baixa (old town) district, the seaside Avenida Marginal and vibrant local markets, join a guided walking tour to discover the city through the eyes of a local.
Barra Beach
Barra Beach is a favourite tourist beach in Inhambane. Choose from a range of accommodation options and do as little or as much as you please. Scuba diving is a popular pastime.
Quirimbas Archipelago and National Park
The magnificent Quirimbas Archipelago encompasses over 32 islands in northern Mozambique. Did you know that the park is the first park in Africa to be created at the request of local inhabitants? Today, the 750,600 hectares of mainly uninhabited islands remain covered in thick mangrove forests with countless species of birds and pristine white sand beaches that stretch for kilometres.
Ibo Island is an absolute must-do, where you can see how the forest is slowly taking over the old fortress and other historic buildings.
Lake Niassa
Nestled between Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania, this great African lake is known by different names depending on where you’re standing. In Malawi, it’s known as Lake Malawi, the Lake of Stars, whereas here in Mozambique, we call it Lake Niassa. Snorkel and kayak in the crystal clear waters of the freshwater lake, home to more endemic fish species than any other lake on the planet.
Colonial architecture in Pemba
Pemba city is renowned for its Portuguese architecture and expansive bay. Pemba is the gateway to the stunning Quirimbas Archipelago.
The Island of Mozambique
Just off the coast of Nampula Province, this enchanting island is connected to the mainland via bridge, making for a panoramic drive across the ocean. With a touch of African, Portuguese, Swahili, French and Goan flavours, this bustling location doesn’t disappoint.
Maputo Elephant Reserve
Maputo Elephant Reserve is fast becoming a must-do for wildlife lovers in Mozambique. The reserve lies in the country’s southernmost province, ideally located not far from the capital. Journey through the bush, marshes, rolling grassland and forest of the reserve while keeping your eyes peeled for the park’s namesake, the magnificent gentle giants, the African elephant, as well as other wildlife and birdlife.
National Art Museum, Maputo
Get your culture fix at Maputo’s National Art Museum, housing an extensive collection of works by some of Mozambique’s most renowned artists.
Macuti Lighthouse and Shipwreck
Dive into mystery when you explore the abandoned Macuti Lighthouse and shipwreck in Beira. The beach in front is a popular local hangout where you can grab a sundowner from one of the beach bars.
Cocktails at the Polana Hotel, Maputo
Check into the grandeur of Maputo’s Polana Hotel and order your choice of cocktail while you indulge in the scenery from their Aquarius Sushi Bar, overlooking Maputo Bay.
Feast on Mozambican seafood and food
No matter where you go in Mozambique, you certainly won’t go hungry. The quality of Mozambican seafood is as fresh and delicious as it gets. Taste the Portuguese influence in spicy peri-peri prawns and chicken. Feast on Matapa, prego rolls, tropical fruit, as many prawns as your body can handle, all washed down with a 2M beer.
Keen to explore these sights for yourself? View our day tours for the best way to explore Mozambique like a local.
More than ever, Mozambique needs your support. You can use this time to plan and book your trip now for later. Contact us for information on how you can safely and with peace of mind plan and book your trip.
You can also support Mozambique by sharing your #MyMozambique moments. Tag DanaTours on Facebook in your holiday photos and add the hashtag #MyMozambique.
