Mozambique

Mozambique spans Africa’s southeastern coast between Tanzania and South Africa, known for its long tropical coastline, offshore islands, and rich marine life. Previously a Portuguese colony, the country gained independence in 1975 and emerged from civil war in 1992, though some instability continues in the far north.

Gorongosa National Park showcases the country’s wildlife recovery. Though facilities are modest compared to those in neighboring countries, the park hosts large populations of waterbuck and warthog, with growing numbers of elephants, lions, and various antelope species. This revival represents one of Africa’s most encouraging conservation stories.

The country’s Indian Ocean islands are some of Africa’s finest. The Bazaruto and Benguerra archipelagos offer pristine beaches and diving, while just off the coast and a little further north Ilha de Mozambique, a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserves fascinating Portuguese colonial architecture and rich Swahili heritage.

The best time to visit is during the cooler months from May to September. October brings heat, followed by rains until March, with cyclones occasionally affecting the central coast during this period.

Mozambique combines well with other regional experiences – combine its beaches with South Africa‘s Cape wine region or a wildlife packed safari such as Botswana‘s Okavango Delta for a diverse southern African journey.