The Lifestyle Magazine for Life in the fast lane

Local Life - May 2025

MAPUTO NEVER FAILS TO DELIGHT

SUN-KISSED AND HUGGED BY THE INDIAN OCEAN

The tropical vibrations of the Indian Ocean run through Mozambique’s capital city of Maputo. With more than 1.2 million residents, it is the largest city in the country and boasts picturesque streets, stunning beaches and exotic bazaars.
TEXT: Travelstart | IMAGES: Unsplash.com

share:

Why Visit Maputo?
The warm waters of the Indian Ocean caress the sandy white shores of Maputo. If you enjoy exploring under the sea, you’re in luck, as snorkelling is one of the top things to do. Alternatively, for a bit of sunbathing, take a tuk-tuk to the picturesque beaches of Costa do Sol and Bilene Beach.

Maputo Central Market and Praça 25 de Junho are fantastic markets run by local vendors that sell an extensive range of items and tasty treats. Maputo is famous for its nuts, especially peri-peri cashew nuts, which are well worth a try.

To spend some time in a completely unspoiled and natural environment, make a day trip to the Maputo Special Reserve, which is 100 km outside the city centre. The area is all bushveld, woodlands and hidden gems. The animals roam freely here, so you’ll need to go with a guide.

Where to Stay?
Whether you want to be in the city centre, in the tropical suburbs, or overlooking the Indian Ocean as you sleep – Maputo has accommodation for all.

You can find some of the best hotels in the middle of the city centre, on Avenida 24 Julho. The mid to-high-priced hotels here are the best in the city. Some beautiful guesthouses and B&Bs are available at much more reasonable rates between the Baixa and Museu areas – two trendy areas of Maputo. Hostel and backpacker accommodation is also available throughout the city.

Getting Around
There are many ways to get around the city, but speaking Portuguese – or having a Portuguese friend tag along – is really helpful when using public transport. Buses, mini-buses, and tuk-tuks are freely available.

Opt for a private taxi if you plan to travel out of the city or go out in the evenings. Often, drivers will not run the metre, so agree on a price before your journey starts. Private taxis are generally reasonably priced, so you should be able to travel comfortably without blowing your budget.

WARM TROPICAL VIBRATIONS RUN THROUGH MOZAMBIQUE’S CAPITAL CITY

Good to Know
The people of Maputo are warm and welcoming, and the city is relatively safe for travellers. However, as it is a big city, it is recommended that you leave valuables in your hotel, avoid walking around with large wads of cash and use a private taxi when travelling around at night.

Going for a general health check-up before going overseas is also essential. For your trip to Maputo, it is strongly recommended that you receive vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid.
You should also use anti-malarial medications and take the necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as malaria is a risk in Mozambique.

What to Expect From the Weather?
Mozambique has a tropical climate, with temperatures that are generally quite warm throughout the year, with the warmer days (November to March) bringing the most rain. The coldest (average 13°C) and driest months are also peak season: June to August. During this time, you will find days upon days of perfect weather and clear skies.

South Africans do not need a visa to visit Mozambique for short stays. You will be granted entry into the country at all access points on the presentation of a valid passport.

MORE FROM THE ISSUE

ROBERTSONS OWN YOUR FLAVOUR CAMPAIGN
Food & Wine

A Century of Spice Mastery

In a world where flavour is king, Robertsons has been reigning supreme for a remarkable 100 years. But what sets this brand apart from the rest isn’t just its legacy of spice mastery; it’s the way it’s shifting the quest

Read More »
Retro Romance
Entertainment

Retro Romance

Do you remember the slightly clammy hands of a first date at the movies? The anticipation of will he/won’t he hold my hand or accidently go for the popcorn when I do? Dinner and a movie is not a staple

Read More »

Exclusive to
subscribers

This month we’re giving a few lucky subscribers free tickets to a movie of your choice at a Ster Kinekor theatre near you!

Just click the ‘SUBSCRIBE’ button & start enjoying the best of Local Life & our exclusive subscriber offers & experiences.

ADVERTISING


SUBSCRIPTIONS


SUBSCRIBE

Subscribe now to get the full ‘Local Life’ magazine in your inbox and be the first to receive our fantastic subscriber special offers!

Where do you want any reader offers to be delivered to?
You must be 18 years and older to qualify for any reader offers
Please send me marketing communication.

VIDEO