Mozambique offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich Portuguese-African culture along Africa's southeastern coast. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilha de Moçambique to the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago, this tropical paradise combines world-class diving, fresh seafood, and warm hospitality in one of Africa's most underrated destinations.
Mozambique is generally safe for tourists in beach and tourist areas, with Maputo and coastal destinations welcoming thousands of visitors annually without incident. The main risks are petty theft in crowded urban areas, road safety issues, malaria, and the ongoing security situation in Cabo Delgado province in the far north.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise increased caution. Cabo Delgado Province: Do Not Travel due to ongoing armed conflict. Maputo and southern beach destinations: Exercise Normal Caution with awareness of petty crime.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution due to crime and civil unrest. Do not travel to Cabo Delgado Province.
Level 2 - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution due to high crime rates. Avoid Cabo Delgado Province and some urban areas after dark.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid travel after dark outside tourist areas
Do not travel to Cabo Delgado Province
Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps
Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying wealth
Stay informed about local demonstrations
Register with your embassy upon arrival in Mozambique and keep their emergency contact number saved.
Malaria is endemic - take prescribed antimalarials, use DEET repellent, and sleep under treated nets especially in northern regions.
Carry photocopies of your passport; police may request ID at checkpoints especially outside Maputo.
Be cautious at ATMs; use machines inside banks or hotels and avoid withdrawing cash after dark.
Petty theft is common on crowded chapas (minibuses) - keep bags on your lap and valuables in a money belt.
Swimming in unfamiliar ocean areas carries rip tide risk; ask locals before entering the water at new beaches.
Never drive after dark outside cities due to animals on roads, potholes, and absent street lighting.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Unofficial Guide Hassle
At tourist sites in Maputo and Ilha de Moçambique, unofficial 'guides' may attach themselves to you and demand payment for unrequested services at the end.
How to avoid: Politely but firmly decline from the start. Arrange licensed guides through your accommodation or tourist offices.
Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed taxi drivers at Maputo Airport and tourist areas quote inflated prices to new arrivals. Prices can be 3-4x the standard fare.
How to avoid: Use Uber or Bolt in Maputo. Agree on a firm price before entering any unmetered taxi.
Beach Vendor Pressure
Persistent craft vendors at Tofo, Vilanculos, and beach areas can be overwhelming, with some becoming aggressive if you engage or pick up items.
How to avoid: A firm but polite 'Não obrigado' (no thank you) and continuing to walk is most effective. Don't pick up items you don't intend to buy.
Money Changing Scams
Unofficial money changers on streets may offer good rates but use sleight of hand to underpay or pass counterfeit notes.
How to avoid: Only change money at banks or ATMs. Never exchange on the street regardless of the rate offered.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Recommended: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever (required if arriving from endemic country). Rabies for remote areas. Malaria prophylaxis essential for all areas and all seasons.
- Water
- Tap water unsafe to drink. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. 5-liter bottles from supermarkets are good value. Avoid ice unless certain of source.
- Food
- Cooked food from established restaurants is generally safe. Avoid raw salads washed in tap water at lower-end establishments. Seafood should be freshly cooked and hot.
- Facilities
- Maputo has Hospital Central de Maputo and private Clínica de Sommerschield for emergencies. Facilities limited in beach areas - medevac insurance strongly recommended for serious illness.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Mozambique is manageable for solo travelers who exercise normal caution. Maputo and beach towns are popular with solo backpackers. Use Uber in Maputo, avoid walking alone after dark in cities, stay in social hostels for security tips, and register with your embassy.
Female travellers
Female solo travelers are generally well-received and respected in Mozambique. Normal precautions apply: use ride-apps after dark, avoid isolated beaches alone at night, dress modestly in northern Islamic communities. Tofo and Vilanculos are particularly female-traveler-friendly with active backpacker scenes.
Families
Family-friendly with the right preparation. Southern beach destinations are safe and excellent for families. Malaria prevention is critical for children - consult a pediatrician about appropriate prophylaxis. Swimming only in areas confirmed safe by locals - rip currents can be dangerous at some beaches.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex acts are technically illegal in Mozambique but prosecutions are rare. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may attract negative attention, especially in conservative northern communities. Maputo and tourist beach areas are relatively tolerant. Discretion advised.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 119
- Medical
- 117
- Embassy
- US Embassy Maputo: +258 21 492 797. UK High Commission: +258 21 356 000. Australian Embassy (Pretoria, SA): +27 12 423 6000
- Tourist Police
- Contact regular police 119 - no dedicated tourist police in most areas