Mozambique Fact File

Getting there

The more northerly island groups like the Matemo and Vamizi are reached by small plane or helicopter from Pemba, which is in turn reached from Dar es Salaam or Johannesburg. The more southerly island groups like Benguerra and Azura are usually reached by small plane from Vilancoulos, which is in turn reached from Johannesburg or the Kruger. It is therefore a more complex journey than to the bigger resort islands like Mauritius, though the relative inaccessibility of these delightful hideaways is part of their appeal. You can fly in to Gorongosa National Park  from Beira and Vilancoulos on a scheduled light aircraft or by charter.

Seasons

Mozambique has an immensely long coastline stretching from South Africa to Tanzania. The southern islands are at their best from early April to December – very dry though a little cooler in July and August. From January to March temperatures are warmest though these months also see the most rain and the February cyclone season in particular should be avoided. The northerly islands like Quilalea and Vamizi  are nearer the Equator and generally dry most of the year though of course any Oceanic environment can produce sudden rain showers. Explore Gorongosa is open from April to December through the dry season.

Is Mozambique for you?

Mozambique is a land of scenic undiscovered wildlife reserves and gloriously remote tiny islands. Wildlife camps such as Explore Gorongosa are perfect if you are looking for a remote and adventurous safari somewhere new, while the islands are highly romantic and perfect for a honeymoon or for anyone who wants to be deliciously well looked after in a private ocean paradise. Islands like Vamizi and Benguerra are especially attractive if you love snorkelling or diving as the reefs are among the finest and most varied in the Indian Ocean and the fish are a revelation. Some islands do not accept children. If you are looking for nightlife, noisy watersports, kids clubs and that sort of thing this is definitely not for you.

Combining Mozambique

You will usually need an overnight stay in Dar es Salaam or Johannesburg before continuing to Mozambique and as flights operate several times a week they can be combined with most safari countries with careful planning.  A couple of days a week, you can fly direct from the South Africa’s Kruger National Park to Vilancoulos and from there it is a short hop to Benguerra Island.