Best Time to Travel in Mozambique

Mozambique is an ideal destination for any traveller, offering everything you could want on an island paradise, from the warm water of the Indian Ocean and endless beaches to the great fishing and diving opportunities.

This information is offered as a guideline, as weather patterns and marine life rhythms are never predictable and can never be guaranteed at a specific time or in a specific area.

Birding: November to February

Mozambique has 600-odd bird species. Due to Mozambique's ecosystem, there is a range of habitats from forest, woodlands, rivers, marshland and wetland. For the avid bird watcher being there at the right time is very important.

Late November to February is the best time to see the various bird types. Special types of Cuckoo can be seen in November and December. February is best for rare migratory warblers that could appear.

Botany: January to December

Mozambique has a wonderful climate allowing various plants to flourish throughout the year. Mozambique has pristine coral reefs, clear blue waters, white sand beaches, dune forests and freshwater lakes, creating an ecological fortress.

The vegetation along Mozambique mainly includes a variation of exotic flowers, woodland; wetlands open savannah, small forest areas, 21 vegetation types and 191 tree and shrub types.

Marine Life

Over 1200 species of fish have been recognised along the coast of Mozambique, most of which live along the coral reefs, mainly off Maputaland, around Inhaca Island, in the area of Inhambane and Pebane and along the Quirimbas Archipelago is the far north. The reefs of Mozambique are on a par with the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.

Marine life to be seen include: kingfish, mackerel, marlin, barracuda, dolphin, the infamous dugong, sharks and much more. Five species of turtle use Mozambique as a breeding ground; it's a unique experience to see a sea turtle.

Niassa Reserve

In far northern Mozambique you will find Niassa Reserve, one of the biggest protected Miombo Woodland Ecosystems. Niassa Reserve has some amazing features and lovely concentration of wildlife. Niassa is surrounded by many rivers and it's twice the size of Kruger National Park.

Wildlife includes: 12 000 Elephant, 9000 Sable antelope, Cape Buffalo, Hartebeest, Eland, Zebra, Kudu, Bushbuck, Impala, Wildebeest, Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Hippo, Duiker and Warthog. Lion, Leopard and Spotted Hyena can also be seen. Up to 200 endangered African Wild Dog can be found in Niassa.

Inhaca Island

Inhaca Island is the closest island getaway, only 24 kilometres (15 miles) from Maputo. Inhaca Island has one small village with a small restaurant and market. Inhaca is perfect for avid bird watchers and snorkellers.

Vilankulo

Vilankulo Island is the gateway to the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago which contains 1200 recognized marine life species. Vilankulo is a bustling place, full of life and friendly locals.

You will note that the highlights of Vilankulo are the pristine beaches, the crystal blue water and amazing sea life. A guest could spend time snorkelling and scuba diving to get a glimpse at the various marine animals. For the keen fisherman, fishing at Vilankulo is very exciting.

Bazaruto Archipelago

The Bazaruto Archipelago is like any archipelago, situated along the coast of Mozambique including a string of islands. The Bazarutos islands are quite large and stunning. The Archipelago has an amazing natural ecosystem due to its isolation. Bazaruto was declared a National Park in 1971; it sustains a diverse population of fauna and flora including forest, savannah and wetland.

Sunsets, peace and solitude is something you can really enjoy on the Bazaruto islands. Guests to Bazaruto can indulge in the stunning beaches, excellent bird watching, superb diving and snorkelling as well as some of the best fishing.

The Archipelago includes an island named Bazaruto Island which is the biggest island in the Archipelago. The island is made up of sand dunes, grass and scrubland. Wildlife includes: dolphin, dugong, humpback whales, and 5 species of marine turtle, Crocodile and small antelope.

Another island on Bazaruto Archipelago is Benguerra Island. Various types of vegetation grow on Benguerra Island, such as: coconuts, sweet potatoes, onions, Mlala palms, paw-paws, Cashew nut trees and Casuarina trees.

Pemba

Pemba is the capital of Cabo Delgado Province. Pemba Bay is the third largest bay in the world. In central Pemba there are wonderful arts and crafts markets. Pemba is perfect the various water sports and fishing.

Some of Pemba's attractions include: the Quirimbas Archipelago with its 30-odd islands and Ibo, previously a major trading post for the Portuguese. Very beautiful structures holding some of the ancient Portuguese design can still be seen.

Mozambique is infamous for its fishing; here at Pemba you can catch marlin, sailfish, dogtooth tuna, mackerel, bonefish and the many species of kingfish. Boats and fishing tackle can be hired at almost any one of the lodges.

Quirimbas Archipelago

The Quirimbas Archipelago stretches from Pemba to the Rovuma River, which forms a border between Tanzania and Mozambique. The Quirimbas Archipelago has never been developed and remains an unspoilt tourist paradise.

Some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving can be done along the Quirimbas which includes some 30-odd. There is 1200 recognised marine species on the coast of Mozambique. The Indian Ocean waters are so warm and clear, you can truly enjoy an island paradise adventure.

The Quirimbas Archipelago still holds some of the oldest history of Mozambique, going back to AD300 when Arab traders set up trading posts. However, Vasco da Gama who arrived in 1498 is still seen as the discoverer of Mozambique.

Inhambane

Inhambane is very much like the rest of Mozambique in the aspect of the tropical feel, friendly people and the natural beauty from the ocean to the sand. Inhambane is dotted with Coconut palms and Cashew nut trees. Some of the other fruits in Mozambique is pineapples, mangoes and oranges.

Inhambane is famous for its age old boat building standards. Some of the activities are sea-kayaking, scuba diving, horse riding along the beach in Barra, snorkelling and fishing. Boating trips are available as well. Features include a museum and the 200 year old Cathedral.

Water Sports

Mozambique offers some amazing water sports so, that you may a get a closer look at the stunning marine life. Snorkelling along the coral reefs, you see various species of fish and the smaller but interesting sea life. On a scuba dive, you get to see sharks, rays, dolphins, the bigger fish and of course the very famous dugong!

Boating trips and sunset cruises are lovely. Feeling the sea breeze against your face in the midst of a tropical oasis is unlike any other experience. Fishing trips can be arranged or you can fish from the beach.

Climate

The dry season in Mozambique goes from April and May to October and November. Temperatures range from 24 to 27 degrees C (75 to 81 degrees F) with some areas along the coast and inland being cooler.

The rainy season goes from November to March. Temperatures range from 27 to 31 degrees C (81 to 88 degrees F); areas in the north are warmer and more humid. The usual rainfall in the capital of Maputo is 750mm per year; in the wetter parts the rainfall can be as high as 1,800-2,200mm.