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Mozambique Introduction


Mozambique is often referred to as the ‘Land of the Boa Gente' (the gentle people). That’s how the early Portuguese settlers described the local inhabitants of this enigmatic country.
 

Located close to the southeast tip of Africa, the Republic of Mozambique is bordered by Tanzania in the north, Malawi and Zambia in the northwest, Zimbabwe in the west, South Africa in the southwest and the warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean to the east.

With about 1500 miles (2 400 kilometres) of wild pristine coastline, Mozambique boasts some of the most gorgeous beaches on earth.
 

With a rich maritime history, the territory (once known as Portuguese East Africa) was first colonised in the early 1400’s. Vasco de Gama landed in what is the present day town of Inhambane, making it one of the oldest harbours in the world. From 1752, the Portuguese influence of the colony ended with independence in 1975. Long lasting civil wars before and after independence however, left a sad scare in what was once one of the poorest countries in the world.
 

The good news is that recent government reforms, stability within the sub-region, and a thriving tourism industry have turned the tide in Mozambique. Mozambique is now the leading scuba, beach and honeymoon safari destination in Southern Africa.
 

Beach resorts are Mozambique’s greatest assets by far. Ranging from laid-back secluded reed and palm frond lodges, to top end international luxury villas and hotels.
 

The Mozambique Channel, with its jewelled islands known as the String of Pearls, is picture perfect. Secluded beaches, coral lined tidal pools, palm fringed coves and isolated islands transform Mozambique into a tropical heaven.

Mozambique’s sprawling capital city of Maputo is the country’s commercial hotspot; while the coast gets progressively wilder the further north one travels.
 

The early Portuguese sailors were right about one thing – people here are incredibly friendly. Considering the draining saga of civil wars, considerable disinvestment since independence, as well as the disasters of major floods in 2001, a warm mood of progress is evident.
 

Infrastructure has grown leaps and bounds of late, and Mozambique is a country on the move. With the historical Limpopo Transfrontier Park linking the Kruger National Park, the interior is developing too and although known as a ‘beach and scuba safari destination’, Mozambique boasts some of the last remaining true bushveld wildernesses in Africa.
 

Historically, Mozambique is a fascinating blend of old Portuguese colonialism, ancient Arabic influences and a respected African culture. Bullet riddled colonial-style buildings serve as reminders of a troubled past, ancient light-houses bear testimony to the early mariners, the chaotic charm of previously decaying towns, vibrant colourful markets and interesting Muslim influence are all well worth exploring.
 

It’s on the white beaches (that are so clean the sands squeaks underfoot) and out on safari in the wild interior, that Mozambican time transcends the past and literally stands still.