Planning a Trip to Mozambique

Despite being a capital, Maputo is not that bad to walk around compared to some other capitals ... especially near the sea ... check out its famous historical hotel that also served as a political base and watch the photos on its walls ... and have a tea or drink in its sea-facing gardens ...

Despite being a capital, Maputo is not that bad to walk around compared to some other capitals... especially near the sea... check out its famous historical hotel that also served as a political base and watch the photos on its walls... and have a tea or drink in its sea-facing gardens...

If you're going to Mozambique by bus (specially from Johannesburg), remeber to get your Mozambican visa before the departure. Many of the bus companies won'nt even allow you to get into the bus going to Mozambique if you don't have the visa. It takes some time for it to be obtained at the border post, so, to avoid problems with the bus and/or driver, get it in advance.

One of the most surreal experiences one can have, go and sit at the Barlavento, enjoy the Deuce M beer and listen to the locals telling you about their history, a stop gap until most can get back into Zim was my conclusion

you can easily get there prom Maputo, take any bus (from Xiapamane) in a direction to Maxixe or Bilene. Lonely Planet travel book does not explain that very well, Bilene is 35km from the lagoon unlike what the guide book says. The bus (chapas is travelling in this direction more ferquently and it's only 200mz)will take you only to Bilene then you have to find something to Praia do Bilene. It's quite easy, you may also ask for help with this at the place you're staying. I recommend Praia do Sol - http://www.pdsol.co.za/ - they are bit aside from the main road but really great place, with fantastic food and atmposphere.

If you are moving to Pemba, Mozambique, here are some tips on things to bring that you will not be able to find over there: An electric water pitcher (the ones that boil water in less than a minute), a strainer (for noodles, etc.), silverware, solar shower, mosquito net(s), deodorant, a hand-held mirror, first-aid items, pens, paper, and any sources of protein that do not include meat (ie: peanut butter, protein bars, etc.). You can get many things in this city through two more "western" shops, although the prices are exorbitant due to import costs and the like; but by all means, if you have a need, bring enough money and buy what you need while there.
Don't, as "westerners", go walking outside past sunset unless you are in a LARGE group. The banditos (thieves/gang members) are very prominent in Pemba, and have a lot of control over the city. Violence towards tourists is not uncommon, so just be aware of your surroundings. Usually the natives are wonderful, hospitable people. Interact with them, try to learn some Portuguese, or Makua, Pemba Delgado's most widely spoken tribal language. The locals enjoy interacting with foreigners, and I think we enjoy our time spent with them as well, so make some effort to be kind and receive the kindness back two-fold. Don't be fooled by the Mozambicans' cunning way of manipulating though, and make sure to bargain when buying souvenirs groceries, or it ruins the experience for the rest of the visitors coming, whom the natives will think are all then just as capable of paying the highest price they could possibly think to ask.
To women travelers: Be careful, stay in groups while in public, hold tight to your purses/any valuables, and try not to look the male Mozambicans directly in the eye, they find it attractive and intriguing...unless you are looking to attract attention.

Take a boat ride over to one of the islands. cheapest is Benguerra island and definately worth it!

A small nest as point to start a trip to the Querimba Islands north. Most beautiful beaches in Mocambique can be found there. Getting here/away direct to Johannesburg, Dar Es Salam or Maputo!