Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Simplified E-Visa System
Mozambique has streamlined its e-visa process for 2026, allowing most travelers to apply online for a 30-day tourist visa (€50 fee) that's processed in 3-5 business days. This replaces paper applications at many borders, making entry smoother for digital nomads and adventure seekers.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Mozambique, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Ensure it meets these standards to avoid issues at immigration; renew early if needed, as some airlines check validity before boarding.
Children under 18 require additional parental consent forms notarized for international travel.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of countries like South Africa, Portugal, and several SADC nations can enter visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism purposes.
This privilege supports regional travel, but proof of onward travel and sufficient funds (around $50/day) must be shown at entry points.
Always verify with your embassy, as exemptions can change based on diplomatic relations.
Visa Applications
For e-visas, apply via the official Mozambique Immigration website (€50 fee), uploading a passport scan, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, and yellow fever certificate if coming from endemic areas.
Processing typically takes 3-5 days; print the approval letter to present at the airport or border.
Visa on arrival is available at major airports like Maputo and Pemba for $50 cash, but e-visa is recommended to skip queues.
Border Crossings
Airports in Maputo, Beira, and Vilanculos offer efficient entry with e-visa scanners; land borders with South Africa and Malawi may have longer waits during peak seasons.
Expect questions about your itinerary and funds; COVID-era health declarations are no longer required but basic health checks persist.
Sea arrivals via dhows or ferries from islands require pre-arranged visas to avoid complications.
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for visa applications, insurance must cover medical evacuation (up to $100,000), emergencies, and trip disruptions; policies from $10/day are sufficient for most travelers.
Focus on malaria-prone areas coverage, as northern regions like Cabo Delgado require robust health protection.
Providers like World Nomads offer tailored plans for adventure activities such as diving in the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Extensions Possible
Extend your 30-day visa up to 90 days total by applying at the nearest immigration office in Maputo or provincial capitals before expiration, with a €50 fee per extension.
Provide justification like ongoing work or medical reasons, along with proof of funds and accommodation.
Overstays incur fines of $5/day; plan ahead to avoid penalties during your extended beach or safari stays.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Mozambique uses the Metical (MZN). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Maputo or Pemba by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for internal flights to the Quirimbas.
Consider regional hubs like Johannesburg for cheaper connections to Mozambique's coastal gateways.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at mercado municipal stalls for affordable meals like matapa under $5, skipping resort buffets to save up to 60% on food costs.
Local markets in Inhambane offer fresh seafood and cashews at bargain prices, supporting community vendors.
Opt for family-run barracas for authentic flavors without the tourist markup.
Public Transport Passes
Use chapas for inter-city travel at $10-20 per leg, or rent a scooter for $15/day in Vilanculos to explore independently.
Group tours via local operators can bundle transport and entry fees, reducing solo costs by 40%.
Avoid peak holiday periods when fares double on popular routes to the islands.
Free Attractions
Visit pristine beaches in Tofo, hike Gorongosa trails, and wander Maputo's markets, which are cost-free and offer authentic cultural immersion.
Many national parks have free entry days or low-fee zones for birdwatching and picnics.
Community-led eco-walks in the Niassa Reserve provide insights without high guide fees.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in urban hotels and tourist spots, but carry USD or MZN cash for rural areas and markets where ATMs are scarce.
Withdraw from bank ATMs in Maputo for better rates; exchange bureaus charge up to 10% commission.
Inform your bank of travel to avoid card blocks during your off-grid safaris.
Park & Activity Passes
Purchase a multi-entry pass for Bazaruto National Park at $25, covering boat trips and snorkeling for multiple days.
It pays for itself after two visits, ideal for extended island explorations.
Bundle diving certifications with eco-lodges to save on equipment rentals up to 30%.
Smart Packing for Mozambique
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, quick-dry cotton clothes for the tropical heat, including long sleeves and pants for malaria protection during evening safaris.
Include swimwear, sarongs for beach modesty, and neutral colors for wildlife viewing in reserves like Gorongosa.
Modest attire is appreciated in rural communities; avoid revealing clothes to respect local customs.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C/F/J/M), solar charger for remote areas, waterproof phone case for beach days, and a GoPro for underwater adventures.
Download offline maps like Maps.me for spotty coverage in the Quirimbas Archipelago.
Include a VPN for secure browsing and translation apps for Portuguese phrases in non-touristy spots.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, malaria prophylaxis (consult a doctor), DEET repellent, and a basic first-aid kit with anti-diarrheal meds.
Pack high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen, water purification tablets, and a mosquito net for bush camping.
Yellow fever vaccination proof is required if arriving from affected countries; include tetanus and hep A shots.
Travel Gear
Opt for a durable backpack with rain cover, reusable water bottle, snorkel gear rental alternatives, and a dry bag for boat trips to the Bazaruto Islands.
Bring passport copies, emergency cash in USD, and a money belt for security in bustling markets.
Pack a headlamp for power outages in rural lodges and eco-friendly toilet paper for remote areas.
Footwear Strategy
Choose breathable hiking sandals or lightweight boots for savanna trails in Niassa, and water shoes for rocky beaches and coral reefs.
Flip-flops suffice for resorts, but sturdy options prevent blisters on long walks in Vilanculos.
Avoid new shoes to prevent discomfort during multi-day dhow safaris or village explorations.
Personal Care
Include biodegradable soap, high-humidity shampoo, aloe vera for sunburns, and a wide-brim hat for intense UV exposure.
Travel-sized items like wet wipes and lip balm with SPF help manage sweat and dust in the dry season.
Pack eco-friendly products to minimize impact on Mozambique's fragile marine and coastal ecosystems.
When to Visit Mozambique
Cool Dry Season (May-August)
Perfect for wildlife safaris in Gorongosa with comfortable temperatures of 20-25°C and minimal rain, ideal for clear sightings of elephants and birds.
Fewer crowds on the beaches of Inhambane; great for hiking and cultural festivals without the heat.
Whale watching peaks in the south, with cooler evenings perfect for stargazing in the bush.
Warm Dry Season (September-October)
Hotter days around 28-32°C make it prime for diving in Tofo with excellent visibility and migrating humpbacks.
Expect vibrant markets and fewer mosquitoes; ideal for island hopping in the Quirimbas.
Pre-wet season means lush landscapes without heavy downpours, though book accommodations early.
Wet Season Start (November-December)
Temperatures of 25-30°C with occasional showers; budget-friendly for beach retreats in Vilanculos and emerging eco-tours.
Waterfalls in the highlands are spectacular, and sea turtles nest on beaches for unique viewing.
Lower prices on lodges, but roads may flood—perfect for relaxed, off-peak relaxation.
Peak Wet Season (January-April)
Hot and humid at 28-35°C with heavy rains; best for indoor cultural experiences in Maputo or cyclone-safe southern islands.
Superb for bird migration and discounted diving; avoid northern areas prone to flooding.
Harvest season brings fresh fruits and festivals, with resilient travelers enjoying uncrowded paradise.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Mozambican Metical (MZN). USD widely accepted in tourist areas; ATMs available in cities but carry cash for rural spots.
- Language: Portuguese is official; local languages like Swahili and Makhuwa common. English spoken in resorts and Maputo.
- Time Zone: Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC+2
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C/F/J/M plugs (mix of round and square pins)
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire; 119 for ambulance
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; 10% in restaurants, $1-2 for guides and porters
- Water: Tap water unsafe; drink bottled or purified. Boil or use tablets in remote areas
- Pharmacies: Available in major towns; look for "Farmácia" signs. Stock up on essentials in Maputo