Mozambique Road Trip: Ultimate Guide To Getting There Safely

For South Africans, Mozambique is an ultimate destination and great as it is a self-drive holiday. Tropical islands, succulent peri-peri prawns, marimba bands and more – there are so many reasons to go on holiday in Mozambique! But before you pack your bags and hit the road, there are a few important things you need to know. From the proper documentation to muddy roads and car troubles, we've got you covered with this handy how-to guide for your self-drive Mozambique holiday.

 

Skip the rainy season

Summer in Mozambique is not only super hot, it's also pouring with rain. This means that the roads become muddy and troublesome – not ideal travel conditions. Stick to the winter season (from May to November) when the weather is cooler and drier for a smoother journey.

Mozambique is a tropical paradise come to life, offering a delightful escape for sun-seekers and beach lovers. With its idyllic Indian Ocean coastline, Mozambique boasts warm and sunny weather during the summer months, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F).

Sort out your paperwork

You might get stopped by traffic officers for a routine check on your journey. The best way to avoid delays is to have all your paperwork in order. Carry your car's registration papers and valid driver's licence with you. If you're still paying your car off, you'll need a letter of permission from the bank. South Africans don't need a Visa but you'll need a passport that's valid for at least 6 months after your return. Be sure to get certified copies of all your paperwork before you go, so you have some spares if necessary.

Get proper cover

Third-party vehicle insurance is a must when travelling to Mozambique by car. Get this sorted before your trip, and make sure that your insurer covers travel in a foreign country and off-road travel. Just to be sure, get a letter from your insurance broker confirming that Mozambique is covered.

Reflective Vests and Two Red Triangles

It's a strict law in Mozambique that everyone in the car must wear a reflective vest when stopping to fix or load a vehicle on the side of the road. Always carry enough vests for every passenger. You'll also need two red triangles placed about 50m from the car (one in the front and one at the back). Your vests and triangles need to follow a few specific size and other regulations, take a look here for more details.

ZA Stickers

You'll also need a ZA sticker on the back of your car, caravan or trailer before you cross the border. Make sure to stick it in a visible spot at least 150mm from your rear number plate.

Service and spares

This one's a no-brainer. If you're taking any long-haul road trip, a car service is a must. This is especially true for a trip to Mozambique, where the roads can be a bit rugged and it might be hard to find a repair shop. Even better, take a few spares such as a fan belt, fuses, a basic tool kit and jack. Make sure that the spare tire is ready for action too.

Stick to the rules of the road

Since you may be stopped along the way for some spot checks, it's worthwhile getting to know a bit more about the best way to interact with traffic officials. First off, the official uniform for traffic officials is a white shirt and navy blue trousers. Only traffic officials are allowed to fine you for traffic violations. Regular police officers (wearing grey) aren't able to issue traffic fines but they can check your car for contraband (so keep everything above board!). If they find something, they have the right to take you to the nearest police station Always follow the traffic rules, stick to the speed limit, wear your safety belt, and be polite and friendly. Here's a more detailed list of Mozambique officials and how it all works.

Check out the news

It's not a bad idea to brush up on current affairs in Mozambique before you go. This way you'll have a bit of a heads up if there's likely to be any unrest, roadblocks or unpleasant weather.

Emergency numbers

Tourism Green Line (for help or advice):

+258 800 460 460

South African High Commission:

Maputo (office hours) +258 21 24 3000

Maputo (after hours) +258 84 304 4600

The country's vibrant marine life and coral reefs make it a fantastic spot for scuba diving. Mozambique's rich cultural heritage and delicious seafood cuisine add an extra layer of charm to this summertime destination. From ocean safaris, pristine beaches, spotting whale sharks and manta rays, this beautiful country will leave you breathless and you will not want to leave Mozambique.

Here are the top 10 things to do when you visit Mozambique:

1. Relax on Pristine Beaches: Mozambique is renowned for its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches. Visit Bazaruto Island, Inhaca Island, or Tofo Beach for pristine sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and excellent water sports.

2. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant underwater world of Mozambique. The country boasts some of the best diving spots in the world, with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.

3. Gorongosa National Park: Experience incredible wildlife and beautiful landscapes in this national park. Go on a safari to see lions, elephants, and more in their natural habitat.

4. Island Hopping: Discover the country's archipelagos and islands. From the Bazaruto Archipelago to the Quirimbas Archipelago, each offers its unique charm, water activities, and cultural experiences.

5. Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse cultures of Mozambique. Visit local markets, interact with friendly locals, and explore historic cities like Maputo.

6. Historical Sites: Explore historic sites like the Island of Mozambique, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved colonial architecture and cultural significance.

7. Seafood Delights: Savor Mozambique's mouthwatering seafood. Be sure to try the local dishes like peri-peri prawns and Matapa, a traditional stew made from cassava leaves.

8. Water Sports: Enjoy a wide range of water activities, including kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, dhow trips and deep-sea fishing.

9. Whale Watching: If you visit between June and October, take a whale-watching tour to witness humpback whales migrating along the coast.

10. Explore Maputo: The capital city offers a blend of modern and historic elements. Visit the Central Market, Independence Square, and the National Art Museum to get a taste of urban Mozambican life and culture.

These are just a few of the many incredible experiences Mozambique has to offer. Whether you're into relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Mozambique has something for everyone.

Take note and you're good to go!