Mozambique is a south-east African country with a long coastline bordering the Indian Ocean. I have visited Maputo, the Bazaruto Archipelago, Vilanculos and Hlane Royal Park. One of the main reasons of my Mozambique trip was scubadiving.
Take me to the paradise of Mozambique
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Africa, Mozambique is a country of natural beauty and cultural richness that has remained largely undiscovered by visitors. With its long stretches of pristine coastline, breathtaking marine life, and diverse wildlife, I saw how Mozambique offers a unique and unforgettable African experience .
Mafalala visit
Mafalala is a Maputo suburb that accentuates that differences between the old and the new Mozambique, the pre and post-colonial Mozambique, the Christian, Muslim and Animist Mozambique, the foods, the dances, the hardships and the joy. In these spiralling laneways many of Mozambique’s most famous and influential people were born and then nurtured. Together with guide Derson we have spent half a day in this unique Maputo suburb.
Mozambique is home to some of the most stunning beaches and islands in Africa. Many islands are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and swimming, and are home to an array of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.Unfortunately i did not get to see any whale sharks on my days of diving. So,despite the whaleshark season has started, we did not encounter any, but we saw lots of alive coral and many colorful fish.
HONEYMOON WEDDING CEREMONY
For the honeymoon usually the groom and the bride spend their honeymoon at their “new” home or in a hotel.
They usually need to go the church because Mozambique has a very strong religios community.
Its part of the Mozambican traditions that on the wedding day the husband is not allowed to see the bride until they meet at church, as it is considered to be bad luck to see the woman before. The botanical garden is a popular photoshoot location.
After that they have a big party with family and friends.
Another must-visit destination is Bazaruto Archipelago, located in the southern part of the country. The islands offer a mix of luxury and adventure, with activities ranging from island-hopping, horseback riding, and dhow cruises to scuba diving and deep-sea fishing. The archipelago is also home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
The lively seaside town of Vilanculos is ideally located for exploring the three main islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago (Bazaruto, Benguerra and Magaruque), lying just off the mainland of Mozambique. The Bazaruto Archipelago is Mozambique’s premier travel destination – a tropical beach paradise with clear turquoise waters and palm fringed islands. As a protected area, the reefs are pristine and the sea life here is spectacular. This cluster of five unspoiled tropical islands is considered one of the most beautiful places in Africa. Mozambique’s only marine reserve, Bazaruto is world-renowned for its superb diving and snorkelling given the abundant sea creatures inhabiting its intact reefs. Marine life includes an impressive variety of tropical fish, whales and dolphins, as well as the rare Dugong (sea cow) and Nile crocodiles. Some of the aquatic creatures sighted on dives include whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, lobsters, barracuda, clown fish, Moorish idols and mackerel. Antelopes, Samango monkeys and around 180 bird species also inhabit the Bazaruto islands.
The Beach of Tofo is one the best of southern Mozambique. It is picturesque and a great place to relax. I unfortunately have only 1 day here to spent before i will head back to the capital.
Back in the capital of Mozambique: Maputo.
Because of the election results, the country is facing a difficult situation.
We will not going to Maputo National Park, 2 hours south, as planned, but we will choose for an alternative to Swaziland, tomorrow.
My guide explains:
Hi Mr. how are you? I am worried, the actual biggest opposition leader of Mozambique has announced 7 days march starting from 31st October to 7th November. He is calling people from all the provinces of Mozambique to come to Maputo city to march for power and those who can’t come to march in Maputo should do in their own provinces. Maputo is at risk of being the most unsafe place in the country during the 7 days. On the other hand It is unbelievable that it will happen because we have never experienced anything like this in history. But something is true, he has closed the country, first for 1 day and second for 2 days, He is the most followed politician at the moment although being also the most wanted person by Mozambican authorities. If it happens, the roads will be closed, I hope it doesn’t happen….
Mozambique is not just about its beaches and islands. The country is also home to a diverse range of wildlife and natural habitats. Gorongosa National Park is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Mozambique, but difficult to reach. I love wildlife and now i am in Africa! My plan was to visit Parque Nacional de Maputo.
Due het current situation in Mozambique, and the risique of blocked roads there was a proposal to visit Hlane Royal National Park in Eswatini.
3 hours driving from Maputo.Hlane is an affordable lowveld destination with exciting species lists including impressive ancient hardwood habitats, big game and rich birdlife.This 22,000 ha park, once the region’s rich hunting grounds, still boasts the largest herds of game in the Kingdom with speciality species being lion, elephant, vultures and marabou stork. So i can recommend Hlane Royal Park in the kingdom of Estwatini (Swaziland).
Mozambique is a country with a rich cultural history, influenced by Portuguese, African, and Arab cultures. The capital city, Maputo, is a hub of cultural activity, with art galleries, museums, and markets. I explored the historic Maputo Central Market, known for its fresh seafood, spices, and handicrafts, i visited the National Art Museum aswell, which showcases the country’s contemporary art scene. Together with my friend Derson we aswell to the Fortress, the Central Market, and the railway station,the Maputo City Hall, the Cathedral, the Botanical Gardens and the Iron House…
I love to visit trainstations when i am traveling.
Maputo railway station is one of the most gorgeous buildings in Maputo built in 1895. Mostly known as CFM by Mozambicans, Maputo railway station represents the heart of Maputo because it was thanks to the existence of this building that Maputo (named Lourenço Marques during colonialism) picked up its development pace. Soon after it was built, it started attracting people from all over the world, businesses, infrastructure projects, jobs among many other things. It was because of the railway station that Maputo eventually became, THE CAPITAL OF MOZAMBIQUE
The island of Mozambique, a UNESCO World Heritage site is further north. The island was a trading hub for the Portuguese in the 16th century and is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Baluarte, the oldest surviving European building in the southern hemisphere.
Mozambique is a hidden gem in Africa that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The locals are friendly.From its stunning beaches and islands to its diverse wildlife and rich cultural history, Mozambique has something for everyone. The country is the perfect destination to explore. I might come back one day.
