Mozambique on the South East coast of Africa with Bazeruto island and Inhaca Island

The country’s tribal communities first settled in the region between the 14th and 18th centuries. During this period extensive trading by India, Persia, China and the Arab world took place along the Mozambican coast for gold, ivory and slaves. However, it was gold that first attracted the Portuguese to the area and in 1505 they built their first trading post at Sofala.

Others followed rapidly and a brisk trade was conducted, particularly in slaves, the trade bolstering the economy of the Portuguese colonies until the late 1840’s. The Portuguese remained in Africa as a colonial power for five centuries until 1975, when they withdrew almost overnight.

History:
Mozambique’s 10 provinces reflect its colourful and dramatic past, each province with its own inheritance of events. The provinces are Niassa, Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, Tete, Sofala, Manica, Imhambane, Gaza and Maputo. Those most popular with tourists are along the coast.

The capital, previously known as Lourenco Marques after the Portuguese explorer who navigated the coastline, was established as a trading post in 1545. Renamed Maputo in 1976 in honour of a 16th century chieftain, it retains some of the charm of a Portuguese colonial city. There are several buildings of historical significance, the old fort and the railway station being particularly notable examples. The National Art Museum with its contemporary paintings and sculptures and the Museum of the Revolution are also worth a visit.

Island hopping:
The four main islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago are Magaruque, Benquerra, St Carolina and the largest, Bazaruto. These islands have been declared a national park and their coral reefs offer some of the best snorkelling, scuba diving and game fishing in the country. These islands are also renowned for their birdlife, the elusive crab plover and green coucal being found here. Accommodation on the islands is of an international standard, in exclusive lodges with access by sea or air.

Still further north are the ports of Beira, Quelimane and Pemba, which is close to the border with Tanzania. Beira is the second largest city in Mozambique and retains a certain colonial air, especially around the main square. Between Quelimane and Pemba lies the fascinating island of Ilha de Mozambique, joined to the mainland by a bridge. This small island, 2,5km long, was used for centuries as an important trading post for gold, ivory and slaves. Numerous buildings dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries are still standing and include churches, mosques, and a palace. There are in fact so many historical buildings that UNESCO has declared it a World Heritage Site.

Fishing is a way of life in Mozambique and it is worth the time just to stand and watch local fishermen bring in their daily catch.

This simplicity and unhurried pace of life, together with the many lonely beaches dotted with palm trees and traditional dhows and the vibrant mix of African and Portuguese cultures, makes Mozambique a unique destination.

Health:
There are hospitals and private clinics. If you travel to the countryside it is essential to take required prophylaxis.

To prevent malaria, it is recommended that you use mosquito nets to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. It is also recommended that visitors take sufficient medication to treat minor ailments.

The long tropical coastline that has endless white beaches fringed with coconut palms and warm blue seas for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving.
The vibrant Maputo nightlife on Friday and Saturday nights, which starts late and continues until dawn in the city’s hotels, restaurants and nightclubs.
The fascinating island of Ilha de Mozambique, which, in spite of years of civil war, has retained its numerous 16th to 19th century buildings.
The bulging fishing nets brought in by local fishermen at the end of a long day at sea in the ancient dhows.
The bustling markets with all the colour, sights, sounds and smells of a developing economy.
The deep-sea game fishing which attracts fisherman from all over the world in search of marlin, barracuda, sailfish and swordfish.
The vibrant mix of African, Portuguese and Arab cultures which gives the country a fascinating ambience of the tropics and Mediterranean.
Bird watching on the Bazaruto Archipelago and spotting the rare crab plover and green coucal, which are just two examples of the abundant birdlife on these islands.
The coastal town of Vilanculos, which offers a gateway for the adventurous traveller.
The beautiful islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago, which are accessed by sea or air.
Rich and diverse historic and traditional cultures.
Bird and crocodile watching on Bazaruto island and Casa Msika in Manica province.
The place where the Queen of Sheba used to collect seashells in white beach sands of Sofala.
One of the richest marine biodiversities in the ward Indian Ocean.