Things we’ve learned
Previously a Portuguese colony, Mozambique has kilometers of white sand beaches and friendly people. Although in recent years, it hasn’t been the safest place to visit. There was conflict between Frelimo, the incumbent party, and Renamo. A temporary peace agreement was signed in December 2016 until May 4th. We arrived a few days before the contract expired, but upon arrival were told an indefinite agreement was underway. There were no problems during our visit, but we did see remnants of the conflict in the Central Region. The roads, especially from Beira to Quelimane, had not been repaired due to the political differences in the region. There was also a lack of wildlife due to poaching, especially during the time of war. This was also seen when visiting the islands and the lack of fish in the water. While it was not commercial fishing, the quantity of fish being pulled out of the water was incredible. We also witnessed fishing in restricted areas within the national park. It was also common to see trash everywhere. While on buses, people threw whatever they had out the window and the streets were lined with garbage throughout the country. There was also trash along the beach and floating along the shore. But probably the most disturbing was watching the people defecate near the water line during low tide and contaminate the transparent waters. Despite all of this, we loved our time in the country and hope to return one day.
Mozambique by the numbers
- 3166 kilometers in bus/chapa
- 115+ kilometers in boat
- 11 towns visited
- 1 National Park visited
- 1 UNESCO World Heritage sites visited
- Meds used: 54 antimalarials
- Items broken & fixed: Maria’s flip flops
- Items lost: Maria’s wedding ring (Don’t worry it wasn’t the real one)
Roam to Discover Awards
- Most memorable meal: Lulas and matapa from Sara’s Place
- Must-see location: Ilha de Mozambique
- Best island: Rolas
- Most beautiful beach: Carrusca
- Best underwater experience: Swimming with dolphins
- Most enjoyable day activity: Scuba diving near the lighthouse
- National drink of choice: 2M beer
- Most colorful sunrise: Ilha de Mozambique
- Most photogenic sunset: Ibo Island
Mozambique route
Overall helpful tips:
- Make sure you have a copy of your passport for police checks. Never hand over your actual passport unless you have to.
- It is important to get a receipt or ticket when paying for transport. In chapas, wait to pay until you are about to get out as there are no receipts.
Me encanta cuando haces el resumen del pais!!! ahora se mucho mas de lo que sabia de Mozambique… ya se donde esta y las maravillosas playas que posee. Gracias Patojos