8 recommended tourist spots in Mozambique! Enjoy marine sports!

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Mozambique is a country located in Southern Africa, boasting a stunning coastline along the Indian Ocean that stretches for 2,500 km.

The country offers a rich blend of historical influences, including the traditional Swahili culture, the legacy of Arab culture that thrived through gold trading, and the nostalgic Latin culture as a former Portuguese colony. Alongside this cultural diversity, Mozambique is a paradise for marine sports enthusiasts, with its pristine white sand beaches, shallow coral reefs, and opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. Here, we present some of Mozambique's top recommended tourist attractions!

1. Mozambique Island

Mozambique Island is a unique destination where cathedrals, mosques, and Hindu temples coexist in harmony. This blend of cultural heritage earned the entire island UNESCO World Heritage status in 1991. The island flourished as a trading hub and shipbuilding center under Muslim rule until the 10th century. After Vasco da Gama's arrival in 1498, it became a Portuguese colony and an important trading port linking Africa and Europe, dealing in gold, ivory, spices, and slaves.

With a length of 3 km and a width of 200–500 meters, the island is small enough to explore on foot.

2. Gorongosa National Park

Located at the base of Mount Gorongosa (1,863 meters high) near Beira, Mozambique's second-largest city, Gorongosa National Park is a symbol of ecological recovery.
The park was severely impacted by poaching during the Civil War but has made an extraordinary comeback in just 15 years. Today, it is home to 450 elephants, 400 buffaloes, and 40 lions.

Visitors can stay at the park's Chitengo Camp, a safari resort featuring luxurious amenities such as a swimming pool and fine dining, making it a popular tourist attraction.

3. Bazaruto Islands

Famous as one of Mozambique's premier resort destinations, the Bazaruto Archipelago offers a diverse ecosystem with coral reefs, mangroves, and tropical coastal forests. Visitors can encounter dolphins, numerous shark species, rays, and vibrant tropical fish. The islands are also a key nesting ground for sea turtles.

Activities include scuba diving, cruising tours, and riding a traditional dhow (sailboat) unique to Mozambique. You can spot humpback whales from August to October and sharks from April to July, so plan your visit accordingly.

4. Beira Grand Hotel

Located in Beira, one of Mozambique's oldest cities, the Beira Grand Hotel stands as a relic of its former glory. Built-in 1952, it was once a modern marvel and one of Africa's largest and most luxurious hotels, earning the nickname "Pride of Africa."

Today, it is an abandoned structure, fascinating visitors with its contrast of former grandeur and current state of decay. However, be cautious during visits as squatters inhabit the area.

5. Inhaca Island

Inhaca Island is located 35km offshore from the capital, Maputo. You can get there by chartering a small Cessna or taking a one-hour boat cruise. Apparently it was part of the Mozambican mainland until 7,000 years ago!

In particular, it is famous for snorkeling on the white beaches in the north and seeing pelicans and flamingos at Cape Santa Maria in the south, so we recommend taking a day to go around the island.

6. Maputo Central Station

Maputo Central Station is a building that evokes the history of the Portuguese colonial period as "Little Lisbon". It was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the designer of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. You can enter the station without using the train, and there are many sightseeing spots to see, such as the pistachio green exterior and marble balconies, and the interior space where works by local artists and artists, sculptures, and paintings are exhibited!

A museum about the history of railways in Mozambique is scheduled to open inside the station soon, so be sure to check it out.

7. Feima

Feima, located in the heart of Maputo, is a vibrant plaza featuring markets and restaurants. It is a great spot to shop for souvenirs like accessories, wooden crafts, and colorful artwork, often at more affordable prices than city shopping malls if you negotiate.

Don’t hesitate to try your bargaining skills with phrases like "Muito caro" ("Too expensive"). For dining, the plaza offers slightly pricier but clean restaurants, and having lunch under the shade while enjoying the art displays is a must-try experience.

8. Museum of Natural History

This is also a tourist spot in Maputo, Mozambique. It is worth visiting just to see the Malangatana murals, its majestic Manueline architecture, and the gardens. There are so many exhibits, including replicas and stuffed animals of Mozambique's animals, exhibits related to Mozambique's ethnic groups, crafts, and stuffed sea creatures, that tourists will never get bored.

It is also famous as the only tourist spot where a collection of elephant fetuses is on display.

Summary

Mozambique is a hidden gem among African nations, blending unique cultural history, stunning coastlines, and rich biodiversity. Its diverse attractions offer something for every traveler, making it a must-visit destination!