Why go?
Mozambique's sunny capital is becoming known for its fresh seafood, pretty architecture and a mix of Bantu and Portuguese culture. The wide avenues of the old town, or baixa, are lined with market stalls and jacaranda trees. And it's in this leafy neighbourhood that you’ll find both the impressive Maputo Central Train Station and the Municipal Market, where vendors display tall piles of fresh fruits and spices.
Along the waterfront, lobster, prawns and calamari can be cooked fresh to order at the famed fish market, while across the city, Portuguese-style bakeries prepare fresh bread and custard-filled tarts. At arts and crafts market, FEIMA, there are Mozambican food stalls, musicians and artisans selling paintings, fabrics, wooden carvings and jewellery.
The Sunday market is a nice spot to stroll around and look for traditional souvenirs
Head to one of the city’s many nightclubs to see how much the locals love to dance, before catching a ‘chapa’ (minibus) back to your hotel to really feel like a local. For a relaxing day trip, idyllic beaches such as Bilene are just a few hours’ drive away.
When to go?
The promenade by Maputo Bay, downtown on Avenida 10
Maputo is pleasant all year round, with the summer months of October to March the hottest and rainiest. The rest of the time it’s breezy and clear, with September probably being the best option for both good weather and low prices.
Where to stay?
Palmeiras Guest House Maputo – Maputo, Mozambique
Palmeiras Guest House Maputo
For a homely stay, Palmeiras Guest House is a top choice. The rooms are comfy and large, the private garden is full of flowing water and lush plants, and the breakfast is homemade. Guests loved the attentive service of Celia, the manager, who can help you arrange day trips.
Polana Serena Hotel – Maputo, Mozambique
Polana Serena Hotel is housed in a large Portuguese colonial building facing out to sea, with a massive pool and landscaped grounds. The entire complex is filled with fountains, richly-painted decorations and lavish furnishings. Guests especially liked the spacious rooms and personalised attention from the staff.
Montebelo Girassol – Maputo, Mozambique
Montebelo Girassol
This clean, modern property is in the centre of Maputo. The rooms are state of the art, with sweeping views over the city and sea. You can have a meal or drink at the restaurant, which has a terrace on one of the upper floors.
Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence Maputo – Maputo, Mozambique
Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence sits in a modern building across an avenue from the Indian Ocean. It has all the trappings you’d expect from a 5-star hotel – bathrobes, comfy beds and a delicious breakfast spread. You can choose from suites, double rooms and even one- or two-bedroom apartments.
GuestHouse 1109 – Maputo, Mozambique
GuestHouse 1109
This friendly spot is located right in the city centre, a short walk from the Fortress of Maputo, Cathedral of Maputo and Tunduru Botanical Gardens. The owners pay great attention to detail, with shampoo, conditioner and an espresso machine in each room, along with super-soft bedding. The quiet terrace is lovely for escaping the bustle of the city.
15 Places To Visit In Mozambique
There are many interesting places to visit in Mozambique. We’ve shortlisted 15 of them based on their popularity and beauty. Take a look:
- The Quirimbas Archipelago
- Machilla Magic
- Paroquia Santo Antonio
- Inhaca Islands
- Niassa Reserve
- Bazaruto National Park
- Fort Sao Sebastian
- Tunduru Botanical Gardens
- Macuti Lighthouse And Shipwreck
- National Money Museum
- Maputo Elephant Reserve
- Maputo Central Train Station
- Museum of Natural History
- Nampula
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