An untamed  Indian Ocean coastline which is INTRO to abundant marine life (turtles, swordfish, scratch Manta, shark etc) and multi-coloured coral reefs, Mozambique is a paradise for keen divers. It has neverending stretches of beach, warm crystalline waters all year round - a haven of tranquillity for those who long for an idyllic setting. This country is characterised by cultural diversity with its African, Arab and Portuguese influences and boasts a rich architectural heritage. Can you resist such overwhelming charm?


USEFUL INFORMATION

Visa
A valid passport is required to enter Mozambique. The date of expiry should be at least six months after the visitor intends to end his/her stay in the country. All visitors to Mozambique require visas, which are valid for 90 days.
Important Note: This is a guide only - please check with your nearest Mozambican consulate, embassy or Mozambican diplomatic mission for up to date information.

Time Difference
Two (2) hours ahead of GMT. Mozambique does not observe daylight savings time changes.

Electricity
220 V. Plug type is the round two pin.

Currency & Credit Cards:
The currency is the Metical (MZM). Credit card are not widely accepted in Mozambique. Travelers are advised not to rely solely on ATMs as a source of funds in Mozambique’s other cities and towns. Major international credit cards (VISA, MasterCard and Amex) may be used for payment at hotels, restaurants and some shops in Maputo and the major towns, but rarely accepted elsewhere.

Language
Portuguese is the official language.

Tax
VAT is applicable on the transaction of goods and services within the national territory, as well as on imports of goods to the country. The VAT rate is 17%.

Tipping
Tipping is common practice in Mozambique for a range of services. In restaurants the accepted standard is around 10% of the bill.

Weather
Mozambique has two seasons, summer and winter.
Summer runs October to April and is hot and rainy. The heaviest rain falls between January and March.
Winter runs April to September and is dry and mild.
 
Malaria
Malaria risk exists throughout the year in the whole country. Tourist can help reduce the risk of malaria by using personal protection measures (mosquito net at night, long sleeves and long trousers at night, apply mosquito repellents to skin and clothing…) and prophylactics.

Communication
Mozambique is operating with two mobile service providers: mCel and VodaCom. Both of them have good network coverage in Maputo province and in almost all areas of the country including Sofala province.

Safety
Mozambique is a relatively low-risk country as far as crime is concerned and the vast majority of visits to Mozambique are trouble-free. Some minefields have warning signs, but most are unmarked and often only get discovered when someone gets blown to bits. For this reason it is simply not safe to go wandering off into the bush anywhere without first seeking local advice - and even then your safety isn't guaranteed. Stay on roads and well-worn tracks where other people have obviously gone before.

Driving
Driving is on the left hand side and  International Driving Licence is required.

Vaccinations
No specific vaccination is required for entry in the country. However it would be recommended that the following vaccines be administered or up-dated prior to coming to the country: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, anti-polio and anti-meningoccocal meningitis vaccines.

Shopping
Mon-Fri 0800-1230 and 1400-1730
Sat 0800-1800