Marvellous, magical Mozambique

 Have you thought about taking an exotic holiday this year? Does the cost of overseas travel make you gulp a little in the current global economic climate? Have you considered looking closer to home? We are lucky enough to live in a part of the world where exotic is just around the corner or… just across the border.

In days gone by Mozambique was the destination of choice. Childhood memories of holidays spent on the beaches of Beira abound! Sadly that came to an abrupt end as Mozambique plunged into a devastating civil war. That war is over. Mozambique is once again a destination of choice, for good reason:

Offering an amazing variety of holiday possibilities Mozambique has something to whet the appetite of even the most discerning traveller. Malcolm Warrack, who owns the Casa Barry resort in Tofo, says that Mozambique has it all. With options ranging from exclusive resorts to rustic adventures and dramatic diving safaris you can’t go wrong in Mozambique. If you are looking for adventure Malcolm recommends, above all else,snorkelling with a Whale Shark: “this is an experience that you can’t explain to somebody else, you just have to do it.”

There are so many different options to choose from in Mozambique, there are the self catering accommodation lodges all along the coast, which are very popular with South African families. Camping facilities are also available in abundance, but choose your facility carefully as you could be surprised by Mozambique style ablutions. Then there are the hotels and the island lodges, which also offer great holiday packages.

So now that you’ve decided to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime by visiting the exotic shores of neighbouring Mozambique, how do you go about it? Here are some travel tips and advice to get you started:

Visas South African passport holders do not require visas for a holiday to Mozambique. Most other nationalities need a visa, and while it is said borders and airports may issue them on arrival, don't count on it, it is safer to obtain a visa before arrival.

Travelling by Air

Flights from Johannesburg to Maputo operate daily with occasional flights also operating from Durban. Flights from Johannesburg to Pemba, in the North, also operate during the week. Check with any travel agency or on the internet for availability.

By Car Car hire is only possible in the major towns in Mozambique so many South Africans prefer to drive. Current registration papers or a letter of permission from the owner are required to get the car across the border. With a 4X4 Mozambique can also be accessed through Kruger National Park via the new Giriyondo border post. This takes you to the Limpopo National Park and then onto Massingir. Most of the southern tourist areas of Mozambique are accessible by car, the further North you go the greater the need for 4X4. Mr. Warrack advises to make sure you have the wherewithal to buy fuel as petrol cards do not work in Mozambique. By Bus Safe and affordableoptions by bus include the Intercape Mainliner, Greyhound and Translux.Thesetravelbetween Johannesburg and Maputo in both directions on a regular basis. A bus service also runs from Durban to Maputo 3 times a week.

Health

Malaria abounds in Mozambique and so it is advisable to see your doctor for a reliable protection before you go. Also ask about precautions against tetanus, malaria, hepatitis and yellow fever. Malcolm also advises: “The local beer is also great, so you might need to take some hangover medication along, just in case.”

Safety

As with anywhere make sure you are aware of pick pockets, muggers and the like, but in general the people of Mozambique are warm, friendly and welcoming. Malcolm says that guests are constantly telling them how safe they feel in Mozambique.

Currency

In most tourist centres Rands are readily accepted. It is also very easy to exchange local currency at any bank or exchange when you get there. Speak to your nearest ABSA branch for more information.

Climate

The summer months from October to April are the best for the beach, however if you don’t like the heat May through to September can be a pleasure with warm days and cool nights. Mozambique is great all year round.

Malcolm’s top tip for ensuring a pleasant trip to Mozambique: “remember that nobody is in a rush in Mozambique, so things normally take quite a bit longer to happen than most people are used to, relax and don’t get upset if they do. The first world owns the watches, Africa owns the time.”