East Africa's Indian Ocean paradise — pristine archipelagos, world-class diving, whale sharks, and a recovering wildlife scene in Gorongosa, all wrapped in warm Mozambican hospitality.
The dry season from May to November offers the best beach and diving conditions with calm seas and excellent underwater visibility. Whale sharks at Tofo are present year-round but most abundant from October to March. The wet season from December to April brings rain, humidity, and cyclone risk (especially January-March). Gorongosa is best visited from June to October when the floodplain dries and animals concentrate around the lake and river systems.
Mozambique ranges from very affordable on the mainland to expensive on the islands. Budget beach lodges from $20-60/night. Mid-range mainland resorts $80-200/night. Luxury island lodges (Bazaruto, Quirimbas) $500-3,000/night all-inclusive. Diving courses $350-450. Single dives $40-60. Whale shark snorkelling excursions $60-80/person. Gorongosa park fees and camps from $50-300/night. A 7-day beach extension from a South African or East African safari costs $1,000-3,000 mid-range or $4,000-15,000 luxury.
Maputo International Airport (MPM) receives flights from Johannesburg (1hr), Nairobi, and Addis Ababa. Vilankulo Airport serves the Bazaruto Archipelago. Pemba Airport serves the Quirimbas. Most nationalities require a visa — e-visas available ($50 for 30 days). Internal connections via LAM Mozambique Airlines are limited and sometimes unreliable. The EN1 highway connects Maputo to the coast, but road quality varies significantly. Island transfers are by boat or helicopter from mainland airports.