Like many African countries, Mozambique has a turbulent past. The Portuguese colonialists were followed by turbulent independence efforts in the 1970s, which culminated in a long civil war between the Frelimo and Renamo parties. Fortunately, since the 1990s there has been peace and a spirit of optimism and positive development in most parts of the country.

From a tourism point of view, the country is divided into two: a well-developed South with picture-perfect beaches, a decent public transport network, good restaurants and resorts, hotels and guesthouses in all price ranges. The north, on the other hand, is more suitable for travelers who are looking for authenticity and adventure and are not afraid of long journeys on bumpy roads.
The southern part of Mozambique is ideal for a beach holiday after a safari in South Africa’s Kruger National Park or in Kwazulu Natal. You either fly to Maputo or drive a rental car across the border at Komatipoort or Ponta do Ouro. There are fantastic hideaways like the White Pearl Resort, Machangulo Beach Resort on the Inhaca Peninsula or Anvil Bay in the Maputo Special Reserve.
Driving north from Maputo, on the way to Vilankulos, one passes the popular beaches of Bilene, Xai-Xai, Tofo and Barra, with many diving, snorkelling and other water sports. This stretch of coast is very popular with South African “beach hoppers” and can get a bit crowded during the South African summer holidays. Vilankulos can be easily reached by plane from Maputo or South Africa and is the gateway to the famous Bazaruto Archipelago with a fantastic underwater world and a few very exclusive accommodations such as the Anantara Bazaruto Island Lodge, the Azura Benguerra Lodge or the Benguerra Island Lodge.
The most beautiful safari national park in Mozambique – Gorongosa – is best reached on a domestic flight to Beira. The few lodges in the park reliably organized the transfer from there.

Photo credits: www.pixabay.com / www.unsplash.com – please see  photo credits for more details