Mozambique is situated on the Indian Ocean coast of Southern Africa and borders South Africa in the South.
Originally a Portuguese colony, the country gained independence in 1975 and became officially the Peoples Republic of Mozambique. The official language is Portuguese.
Today Mozambique is an up and coming hot-spot and is one of Southern Africa’s perfect holiday destinations with spectacular palm lined white sandy beaches and dazzling turquoise ocean. Its long coastline is ideal for snorkeling, diving or simply enjoying the ideal conditions for beach lovers, scuba divers and fisherman alike.
Before independence Maputo, the capital of Mozambique as well as the largest city, was known as Lourenço Marques and was very popular with South African holidaymakers up until the mid 1970’s. Two decades of guerrilla warfare made many of the attractions of Mozambique difficult to visit, but now that the turbulent times are only a memory, the buoyant ambience has turned it into one of Africa’s most desirable destinations.
The cuisine of Mozambique can be counted amongst some of the best in Africa with its trendy mixture of Portuguese, African and Indian influences and its reputation for outstanding seafood such as prawns and crayfish. The taste of Peri Peri Prawns is something not to be missed as well as the famous “Galinha Zambeziana” (chicken with garlic, peri peri and lime sauce). There are many other speciality dishes available.
The environmental conservation areas have become one of the main tourist attractions comprising 6 national Parks and 6 Reserves. It is also an advantage that when visiting Mozambique, visitors are in easy reach of South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province which includes the Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon and many other attractions.