When it comes to border crossings in Mozambique, it helps to have your wits about you. These are some basic guidelines to help make crossing the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post (also called the Komatipoort Border) go smoothly.
Navigating borders in Africa can be a stressful experience, especially if you are un-prepared to face the bureaucracy. The most important thing is to have all your papers in order. Here is a quick survival guide of tips to help things go easier when crossing the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post and travelling into Mozambique from Komatipoort, South Africa.
PLEASE NOTE: Border rules are constantly changing - this is a rough guideline - please speak to one of our Mozambique Destination Specialists for the latest information.
Stock Up at the Komati Oasis
It is a good idea to stop off at the Komati Oasis situated on the N4 approximately 1,4 kilometres before the Lebombo Border. This is a good place to fill up on fuel and grab supplies for the road. There is a small supermarket, ATM and a Bureau de Change where you can get Meticais - (the local currency).
The Bureau de Change is open from 08:30 - 3:30 during the week. You can also pay a small fee to use a clean toilet rather than use the facilities at the border.
Insurance - Have you remembered to get third party insurance?
If not then you can get insurance at the Global Alliance kiosk.
Make sure that all your paperwork is in order and have a working pen handy.
What Documents Do I Need to Cross the Mozambique Border?
- You will need a vaild passport (ensure it is valid for at least 6 months after your return date)
- Visas are not required for SA passort holders staying in Mozambique for up to 30 days
- An unabridged birth certificate for all minors travelling in your vehicle
- Original or SAPS certified copy of vehicle registration papers
- If you are not the registered owner of the vehicle you will need authorization from the owner or your bank to take the vehicle into Mozambique
- Valid drivers license
- Third-Party motor vehicle insurance
What Am I Allowed to Bring into Mozambique?
You are permitted to bring the following into Mozambique without having to declare them:
- 1 litre of alcohol (spritis) and 2.25 litres of wine per person (over 18). Please note beer is not permitted.
- 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars per person (over 18)
- Meat, food and groceries up to the value of 5000Mt (+- R1500)
Please note you will not be allowed to bring any fresh produce (meat, fruits and vegetables) back into South Africa after your holiday.
Lebombo Border Opening and Closing Times
The Lebombo / Ressano Garcia Border is open from 06h00 to 24h00 (midnight).
During Easter and from mid December to mid January it is open 24 hours a day.
Lebombo Border GPS Coordinates
-25.442380
31.985747
Once you arrive at the Lebombo / Ressano Garcia Border Post
The Lebombo border post is busiest over weekends and Christmas and Easter and if you are travelling at these times, it pays to be patient. If you are self-catering, remember that you are only allowed to take goods of a certain value into the country (Check with one of our Destination Specialists what the latest regulations are).
You may have to produce your till slips to prove the value of the goods so have them handy. However, Mozambique has fantastic fresh produce, so do not take to many provisions; rather enjoy the famous local cuisine.
The South African Side (Lebombo Border)
- As you enter the border post you will be given a gate pass.
- Once inside the customs building you will need to fill in the paperwork, including a Temporary Export Permit for the vehicle.
- You will have to declare any valuables such as laptops, iPads and Cameras. The lower you can realistically declare them at, the less likely you are to have hassles.
- Check that the form is stamped and keep it in a safe place as you will need to show it upon your re-entry into South Africa.
- Next you will have to complete immigration, so have your passport handy.
- Then go back to your car and as you drive through to Mozambique you will have to give your gate pass to the guard.
The Mozambican Side (Ressano Garcia Border)
- On the other side of the border you will be stopped by a guard and given another gate pass.
- Take some Rand in small denominations in with you and your passports.
- You will need to fill in a temporary vehicle import form.
- Each person in the vehicle will need to fill in an immigration form and have their passport stamped at the immigration counter
- You will each have to pay a nominal processing fee
- Then your vehicle will be checked by a customs official. Have your South African declaration form handy.
- You will need to pay the vehicle tax before leaving and handing your vehicle pass to the guard.
Look out for speed traps about 5km before the border post when travelling back to South Africa - adhere to the speed limit or you may be fined.
Where to Stay in Mozambique
Let us assist you in booking the best Mozambique accommodation to suite your needs, wants and budget.
Our Mozambique Destination Experts can assist in recommending and booking accommodation, car hire, excursions and create customized Mozambique package holiday itineraries.
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