The Republic of Mozambique is a country in Southeastern Africa. It is washed by the waters of the Mozambique Channel and the Indian Ocean. This is an amazing place with s scenic wildlife and a long coastline. Divers from all over the world come here to plunge into the world of megafauna. Mozambique has many thrilling diving spots. For example, Kirimbas and Bazarutto marine reserves with their unique underwater landscapes and untouched nature. Another popular destination is Tofo Beach, where the Manta Reef is located. As the name suggests, manta rays are the frequent guests in these waters. During dives, you will meet humpback whales and different types of sharks. On the Wimbe beach in Pemba you will get close to dolphins, you can see humphead wrasse and sea turtles. Ponta de Ouro Reef became home to shrimps, snappers and huge rockfish.
Most of the dive shops are located in the city of Inhambane and on the coast of Tofu beach. You can book a dive tour or a diving safari. Equipment rental, instructor-guide services and special courses are also available.
Spring (from September to November) is the time of the southeastern winds. For these three months, it is a warm, sunny, windy weather. The air temperature ranges from +25 to 29°С, the water temperature fluctuates between +24 and 27 °С.
Summer in Mozambique is a wet season. From December to January, the weather is warm and rainy with high humidity levels. However, In February the rains stop. The air temperature is + 28-31 °С, while the water warms up to + 26-29 °С.
Autumn (from March to May) is a beautiful time of the year, with stable warm weather and small amounts of precipitation. April comes snaps into a bit of a colder weather. The air temperature drops to + 24-30 °С, water settles at + 24-27 °С.
Winter is a warm season without rain. July is considered the coldest and the driest month. The air temperature is + 22-25 °С, meanwhile, water temperature ranges between +21 and 23 °С.
There are many dive sites in Mozambique: Rush Hour, Rolas Rainbow, Neptune’s Arm, The Edge of Reason, Cocoons, Two Mile Reef, Pinnacles, Doodles, Paradise Reef, the Office, Giant’s Castle and the Gap in Pemba.
Medical services in Mozambique are limited. The service is cheap, but it is necessary to make an advance payment even if you have an insurance. Malaria, filariasis and plague are common. It is recommended to get vaccinated against malaria and avoid mosquito bites. High risk to get HIV, cholera, hepatitis, tuberculosis and rabies. It is recommended to buy bottled water or boil it, do not add ice. The country is not safe, you need to be vigilant and careful, especially on the streets. There have been many cases of fraud and petty theft. Nighttime walks are not recommended, it is better to take a taxi.
The Indian Ocean is inhabited by many dangerous marine creatures. Follow standard safety procedures during dives. You should beware of sharks, poisonous moray eels and jellyfish Physalia.
The basis of the local cuisine is seafood, cooked in the traditions of the Bantu people, with a mixture of Arab and Portuguese dishes. We recommend trying Matapa, the main ingredients of which are crabs or shrimp, pickled in spicy piri-piri sauce, with a side of rice and cassava. Take time to taste the seafood kebabs and salada de polvo — a salad with octopus and chickpeas. After eating, drinking freshly brewed coffee or Rooibos tea is a traditional habit. As for alcohol, you could try a local craft beer 2M, gin and tonic made with local vodka produced from cashew nuts. Boil tap water or drink bottled water only