Mozambique 7 Day Itinerary

Mozambique 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Maputo City Tour

  • Morning: Arrive at Maputo International Airport and take a taxi to your hotel in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Fortaleza de São Sebastião, a historic fort built by the Portuguese in the 19th century. Explore the nearby Mozambique National Museum of History and the lively markets of Baixa and Feira Popular.
  • Evening: Enjoy seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants along the Avenida Marginal waterfront.

Things to know:

  • Maputo is a relatively safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak English.
  • The local currency is the Mozambican Metical (MZN), although USD and EUR are widely accepted.

Day 2: Elephant Reserve and Beach Relaxation

  • Morning: Drive to the Maputo Elephant Reserve (approx. 1 hour) for a guided game drive and opportunity to spot elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife.
  • Afternoon: Head to the beautiful Praia de Bilene beach (approx. 30 minutes from the reserve) for lunch and relaxation.
  • Evening: Return to Maputo and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Transportation:

  • Rent a car with a driver or take a guided tour to the Elephant Reserve.
  • Be prepared for rough roads and possible delays.

Day 3: Inhambane Province

  • Morning: Fly from Maputo to Inhambane (approx. 1 hour) and transfer to your beach lodge in Tofo.
  • Afternoon: Spend the day relaxing on the stunning beaches of Tofo, known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Places to go:

  • Inhambane Province is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Tofo, Barra, and Tofinho.
  • Take a snorkeling or diving trip to explore the coral reefs and marine life.

Day 4: Whale Watching (Seasonal)

  • Morning: Take a guided whale watching tour (June to November) to spot humpback whales in their natural habitat.
  • Afternoon: Return to your lodge for relaxation and lunch.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and explore the town of Inhambane.

Things to know:

  • Whale watching season is from June to November. Book tours in advance to ensure availability.
  • Respect the marine environment and follow guidelines provided by tour operators.

Day 5: Vilanculos

  • Morning: Drive to Vilanculos (approx. 3 hours), a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and water sports.
  • Afternoon: Take a sunset dhow cruise (a traditional Mozambican sailing boat) to explore the coastline and surrounding islands.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and explore the town.

Places to go:

  • Vilanculos is a great base for exploring the Bazaruto Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
  • Take a kayaking or paddleboarding trip to explore the coastal waters.

Day 6: Bazaruto Island

  • Morning: Take a ferry or dhow to Bazaruto Island (approx. 30 minutes) and spend the day exploring the island’s beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
  • Afternoon: Go snorkeling or diving to spot marine life, including dugongs, turtles, and tropical fish.
  • Evening: Return to Vilanculos and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Things to know:

  • Bazaruto Island is a protected area. Respect the environment and follow guidelines provided by tour operators.
  • Be prepared for basic facilities on the island and limited internet connectivity.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Return to Vilanculos airport (approx. 30 minutes) for your flight back to Maputo (approx. 1 hour).
  • Afternoon: Spend the day exploring Maputo or last-minute shopping before departing Mozambique.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of certain countries, including the US and EU member states, require a visa to enter Mozambique.
  • Check with the Mozambican embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

Health and Safety:

  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about vaccinations and medications required for travel to Mozambique.
  • Take necessary precautions against malaria and sun exposure.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, wildlife, and relaxation, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Safe travels!