Exploring Mozambique: Underrated Spots & Must-Try Experiences

Mozambique is a coastal gem in Southern Africa that’s often overlooked by travellers. Its landscape is vast and impressive, packed with rich culture, untouched beaches, and unique cuisine. Although it would be impossible to explore all of Mozambique on your holiday, the country offers a range of experiences perfect for curious adventurers.

Shop at FEIMA (Maputo)
In the heart of Maputo lies FEIMA – the Feira de Artesanato, Flores e Gastronomía. This busy market is a goldmine for handmade crafts, local art, and colourful textiles. It’s a great place to interact with artisans and pick up souvenirs, and it is one of the most meaningful things to do in Mozambique.

Snorkel at Dom Carlos (Bazaruto)
Off the southern coast of Mozambique, the Bazaruto Archipelago is famed for its unimaginably clear waters and striking coral reefs. Dom Carlos Point, in particular, is a snorkelling paradise, where you’ll spot clownfish, parrotfish, and even turtles amid gorgeous underwater landscapes. Resorts like Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort typically offer excursions to the site, driving past iridescent white dunes, picturesque bays, and even a charming lighthouse.

Sail on a Traditional Dhow (Southern Mozambique)
Embrace the traditional way of sea travel by hopping on a dhow, a handcrafted wooden sailboat. Sunset sails along the coast near Vilankulos or Tofo offer breathtaking views and a fascinating experience rooted in Swahili heritage.

Try the Iconic Matapa (Nationwide)

Image by Wikimedia Commons

No adventure in Africa is complete without trying some regional dishes. A staple in Mozambican cuisine, Matapa is made with cassava leaves, ground peanuts, garlic, and coconut milk. Often served with rice or seafood, it’s a must-try dish that captures the soul of the nation’s flavours, found all over the country.

Mozambique Wildlife Safari

Mozambique isn’t the typical urban country where high-rise buildings are all you see. The country and its people are very much in tune with nature ad attempt to protect their wildlife. This is exactly what makes a safari here so exciting.

The abundance of wildlife

The Limpopo National Park in Mozambique is one of the most impressive parks which has been merged with South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Now wildlife in the two regions roams free. A safari here is one of the top things to do in Mozambique.

Gorongosa National Park

This was the regions most abundant national park in the 1960s. But once the civil war began, animals were poached for ivory and meat. Now projects have begun to bring the park back to its former brilliance and visitors get to see it all.

Judy GallagherAfrican Lion – Panthera leo, Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique (45650835935)CC BY 2.0

Moving to water

When it comes to wildlife, Mozambique is also blessed with rich marine life. There are many diving and snorkelling opportunities available to witness it all.

Tours and places to stay

Now that the country has recovered from the civil war, there are many hotels belonging to large chains like Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas that have decided to set up here. They may even organize your tours.