Joanna James
From opportunities to unwind on sun-soaked shores to swimming with dolphins and finding your way through local markets, Mozambique is an absorbing adventure awaiting its next visitor.
Situated in the nation’s capital of Maputo, the Municipal Market hands curious globetrotters the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Mozambique. Packed to the rafters with stalls inclusive of long rows where locals sell an assortment of goods and products, the Municipal Market beckons travellers who have a soft spot for authentic and rewarding cultural trips in Mozambique. Consider getting here early in a way to beat the crowds but be sure to bring your camera along for the journey. Select from pungent spices to the freshest produce imaginable before moving onto the next destination on your itinerary.
Formerly the Fort Nossa Senhora da Conceicao of Lourenco Marques, the staggering site of Maputo Fortress is one of the finest historical landmarks that you will have the privilege of exploring when in this part of Mozambique. Found at Praca 25 de Junho, this stronghold was the work of the Portuguese colonists and was expertly built, purely from red stone. Equipped with a square floor plan, Maputo Fortress showcases remnants from Portuguese rule together with a tiny museum and the sealed, wooden coffin of Ngungunhane – the last ruler of the Empire of Gaza.
Made up of astounding scenes and captivating wildlife that come in all shapes and sizes, the wilds of Gorongosa National Park cannot be excluded when holidaying in Mozambique. Be it savannahs, fever tree forests and green floodplains, this ecological haven is home to a wonderful collection of animals. These include lions, elephants, hippos, wildebeest, buffaloes, sable antelope, impalas and a vast array of birdlife, some of which are deemed endemic to the region.
Laying claim to the 6 islands that comprise the Bazaruto Archipelago, the acclaimed Bazaruto National Park, located in the country’s south is a glimmering gem that you must explore at your own pace and leisure. Extending for 1,400 sq km, Bazaruto National Park is where you will encounter a host of marine mammals, ranging from green turtles, elusive dugongs to playful dolphins. In fact, should you decide to be based at Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, which is among Mozambique luxury beach resorts during July to September, then you will be well placed to witness the annual migration of humpback whales.
If you fancy spending long hours on spotless and isolated beaches, then do make journey for Zongoene. This is where you will come into contact with numerous beaches, punctuated with patches of greenery and magnificent sand dunes to traverse. In terms of the main activities, look forward to learning how to fish, riding a canoe and enjoying some quad biking in dense forests.
Although only accessible to the pubic on Heroes Day, which falls on the 3rd of February, time spent at Praca dos Herois Mocambicanos in Maputo will fill you with plenty of admiration for some of the country’s fondest sons. At its very center is a white marble structure, shaped in the form of a star that contains the remains of the national poet – Jose Craveirinha together with Samora Machel and Eduardo Mondlane; renowned names who bravely fought in a revolution in the hope of securing independence.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
