Mozambique:
Where the sunny skies are aqua blue by Darren Ravens
Located on the south-eastern
coast of the continent, Mozambique is considered one of Africa's coastal
jewels. It is renowned for its crystal blue waters, fantastic coral reef
and its amazing diversity of marine life.
This former Portuguese colony,
a unique melting pot of diverse cultures, is a major attraction for travellers
seeking an African adventure experience. Devastated by a bloody civil war
that raged for about 17 years, since the end of the war in 1992, Mozambique
has been actively rebuilding itself. This has begun to open up a host of
travel opportunities for visitors eager to get a taste of this tropical
African paradise.
Great Neighbourhood
Mozambique, bordered by Tanzania,
South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi is the ideal base
for the traveller hoping to explore these countries aswell. Equally, a
visit to Mozambique can easily be incorporated into a tour to any of these
countries.
Getting Around
Mozambique's road network
is reasonably well-established and most major routes are regularly maintained.
Most of the major centres and popular areas are accessible by two-wheel
drive vehicles. Of course, a 4x4 offers a special advantage and opens up
a range of further travel possibilities. There are several car-hire companies
in Maputo, catering for the needs of the traveller
interested in a self-drive holiday.
If you prefer the convenience
and added security of being driven by a professional, there are a number
of private mini-bus operators and reliable public transport companies operating
in the major centres.
If you wish to experience
Mozambique travel as part of a more comprehensive African experience, the
packages offered by overland adventure travel companies are a good option.
Usually, these companies put together overland tours, which pass through
a number of countries and provide travellers with a unique opportunity
to enjoy a diverse African travel experience.
Climate and weather
Mozambique enjoys a warm,
tropical climate with an average temperature of around the high 20s (degrees
Celsius) range. The weather is warm and sunny all year round, ideal for
maximum enjoyment of the countries coastal charms.
The summer months, from October
to April, are often very hot, humid and rainy. From April to September,
the winter months are cooler, drier and more comfortable for visitors not
accustomed to heat and humidity normally associated with the warm season
in tropical areas.
That's not to say that you
shouldn't embark on Mozambique travel during summer though, since actual
temperatures and rainfall varies by region within the country. The higher-lying
Nampula and Niassa provinces are the coolest, while the north-eastern coastal
regions are the hottest. The northern region receives far more rainfall
than the south.
If you're hoping for a Mozambican
safari experience, the best time of year to visit is towards the end of
the winter months. This drier season normally sees animals congregating
in larger groups than they do in summer. The summer months offer excellent
fishing opportunities with the larger fish populating the coastal waters
during this time of the year.
Diving in Mozambique
Mozambique is a world-famous
dive location with numerous fantastic reefs supporting an amazing variety
of marine life. The relatively warm water temperature and a multitude of
interesting creatures including the dugong, sharks, dolphins, whales and
shoals colourful fish, makes for an awesome diving experience. The area
most popular amongst diving enthusiasts is the Bazaruto
Archipelago, consisting of four islands; Bazaruto, Benguerra, Margaruque
and Santa Carolina. The archipelago's coral reefs and clear, crystal blue
waters provide what is regarded as the best snorkelling and scuba diving
in Africa. If your trip to Mozambique is to be limited to just one destination
in the country, then this group of islands must be it.
Currency
The unit of currency is the
Metical. Introduced mid-2006, this relatively new currency is used alongside
the older Meticais, which is being phased out. In the southern parts of
the country, the South African Rand, US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are
also accepted. In the north, US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are widely
accepted. Credit cards are accepted to some extent, but only by the larger
hotels or businesses geared specifically towards tourists. Generally, it
should be assumed that your credit card will not be readily accepted.
Health Precautions
Mozambique is a malaria-risk
area, so it's vital that visitors take proper precautions. To minimise
the mosquito risk, travellers are advised to wear long sleeves and trousers
when possible and to use an effective mosquito repellent on exposed skin.
Treated mosquito netting should be used and the doors and windows of your
accommodation should be screened to keep mosquitoes out. A fan or air-conditioner
can also help limit night-time mosquito activity to some extent.
Also important is the use
of and effective anti-malaria medication. Be warned though, certain medications
cause side-effects, so consult you doctor or travel clinic well before
you intend to be exposed to the risk to ensure that you are adequately
protected.
With a painful history of
war and destruction, Mozambique has rebuilt itself and looks to the future
by capitalising on its natural beauty. Whether you are after an adventure,
leisure or the perfect eco-tourism experience, Mozambique is an idyllic
tropical destination that will not disappoint. It is truly a slice of paradise.
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