Mozambique🇲🇿
Mozambique is located in the southeastern coast of Africa and shares borders with six countries: Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, and South Africa and Eswatini to the southwest. The nation is recognized for its stunning coastal beaches, bustling markets, and diverse cultural heritage. The colonial charm of Maputo, the Afro-Portuguese flavor of its cuisine, the preserved historical island of Mozambique, and startling natural beauty of Gorongosa National Park, and the Roosevelt Archipelago are few of its signatures. With its extensive coral reef systems and wildlife sanctuaries, the country is gradually becoming a prominent ecotourism destination.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid walking alone at night in major cities, specifically in known crime hotspots.
- Avoid drinking tap water. Opt for bottled water instead.
- Avoid swimming in freshwater bodies due to the risk of bilharzia.
- Avoid handling matters related to law enforcement without the presence of a legal counsel.
- Avoid discussing politics, especially sensitive issues like the civil war or the 'hidden debt' scandal.
- Avoid displaying valuable possessions such as jewelry or expensive electronic devices.
- Avoid visiting the Cabo Delgado region because of the ongoing armed conflict.
- Avoid ignoring local customs and traditions - religion and traditions are deeply rooted in Mozambican society.
- Avoid visiting remote areas without hiring a reputable local guide.
- Avoid non-essential travel during the rainy season (November - March) due to cyclone risks.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Mozambique has encountered a high crime rate, predominantly encompassing petty street crimes and occasional violent crimes. The crime rate in urban areas such as Maputo and Beira is higher in comparison to rural areas. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from cars are common in crowded places, transport hubs, and tourist destinations. Carjacking incidents and residential break-ins are of concern too.
Terrorism 💣
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Mozambique faces ongoing insurgency in the Cabo Delgado Province, the northeastern part of the country. The terrorist group, Al-Sunna wa Jama’a, has conducted numerous violent attacks since 2017 causing massive displacement and casualties. Large scale attacks in March 2021 on the town of Palma have intensified concerns over security.
War ⚔️
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Mozambique is relatively peaceful since its end of a protracted civil war in 1992. However, the current conflict in the Cabo Delgado province with Islamist insurgents causes unrest. Additionally, tensions post-civil war era and political rivalries sometimes result in isolated violent clashes.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Mozambique is vulnerable to extreme weather conditions including cyclones, floods, and drought. Tropical Cyclone Idai in March 2019 and Cyclone Eloise in January 2021 caused devastating effects leading to immense loss of life, property, and infrastructural damage.
Medical Care 🏥
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Despite improvements, Mozambique's health care system still grapples with challenges like poor infrastructure, inadequate staff, and low access to medicines. Care in rural areas is noticeably lower than in major cities like Maputo. Medical facilities are often ill-equipped to handle serious illnesses or emergencies.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in Mozambique is generally considered unsafe for consumption without prior treatment. This is due to lack of proper sanitation and risk of waterborne diseases. Most people prefer to drink bottled water, especially in rural and remote areas.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Endemic diseases like malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS pose a significant public health challenge in Mozambique. The nation was severely impacted by HIV/AIDS pandemic, with high prevalence rates. Disease control measures have improved but incidents remain high, especially in rural regions.
Corruption 💸
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Mozambique has been grappling with widespread corruption across all sectors. The hidden debt scandal, where government officials secured loans over $2 billion without parliamentary approval in 2016, resulted in a financial crisis and public discontent.
Safety for Women ♀️
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While progress has been made, women still face challenges such as gender-based violence and social inequalities in Mozambique. Reports of sexual violence and harassment are concerning, especially in isolated and conflict-affected regions like Cabo Delgado.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Although homosexuality was decriminalized in Mozambique in 2015, acceptance varies throughout the country. Discrimination and stigma may be experienced, although violence is not common. Queer community may find greater tolerance in urban settings like Maputo than in traditional, rural areas.
Censorship 📺
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Freedom of speech and press are constitutionally guaranteed in Mozambique, but instances of censorship and self-censorship occur occasionally due to intimidation and violence against journalists. Journalist Paulo Machava was shot dead in 2015, leading to heightened fears for press freedom.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation in Mozambique is relatively reliable, but not without issues. Services can be inconsistent outside major cities, roads often poorly maintained, and overcrowded minibusses or 'chapas' cause safety concerns. Road accidents are relatively common.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Safety in Mozambique varies across regions. While major cities are fairly safe with basic precautions, ongoing conflict in northern regions of Cabo Delgado presents safety concerns. Be cautious of high crime rates, particularly in urban areas, and risks of natural disasters during cyclone season. Ensure you stay updated with local news and advisories.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Numerous foreign embassies are located in the capital city, Maputo, including the United States Embassy, British High Commission, German Embassy, French Embassy, Canadian High Commission, and the Australian High Commission.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Recommended vaccinations for Mozambique include routine vaccines, as well as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Cholera, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Meningitis and Polio. Anti-malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Mozambique houses several species of dangerous animals such as crocodiles, sharks, and venomous snakes like the black mamba and puff adder. Mosquitoes can carry diseases like malaria and dengue. In wildlife parks, always follow ranger advice and view animals from a safe distance.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Mozambique. Visas can usually be issued on arrival for tourism purposes, but it's recommended to obtain one prior to travel.
💲 Currency
The official currency is Mozambican Metical (MZN). Numerous ATMs and exchange bureaus are available in main cities and tourist locations.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Major credit cards are accepted in large hotels, restaurants and upscale tourist establishments. However, cash is essential for local markets and in rural areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Certain conservation projects and non-governmental organizations offer volunteering opportunities for work and travel in Mozambique. However, it's not typically a top destination for paid temporary work due to economic and language barriers.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Mozambique is a relatively affordable destination for travelers. Accommodation, local transportation, and food can be low cost. However, activities related to wildlife safaris, diving or high-end resorts can increase expenses.