Travelling Maputo
Before You Travel
Maputo, the capital city of Mozambique, is located to the south of the country. Formerly known as Lourenco Marques, it evokes much of the atmosphere of its Portuguese colonial past with its wide streets lined with acacia and jacaranda trees. This Mozambican city has excellent hotels, restaurants, nightclubs – even a casino - and offers visitors the opportunity to view innumerable sights of historical, cultural and scenic beauty. The Cathedral, on Independence Square, is a particularly imposing sight as are the neo-classical City of Council Chambers nearby.
The gothic-style Museum of Natural History houses exhibits on many of the animal species in Mozambique while the Fortress, one of Maputo’s oldest buildings, is now a colonial history museum. Other interesting buildings in this city of Mozambique are The House of Iron, imported from the World Exhibition in Paris; the Railway Station; and the Yellow House, the seat of the first colonial government.
The Botanical Gardens; the Central Market, which offers a wide variety of handicrafts in addition to fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs; and the Fish Market may also be of interest. Inhaca Island, 34km out into Maputo Bay, is easily accessible by boat or light aircraft while the Maputo National Reserve lies 80 km to the south of the city.
The vibrant city of Maputo (formerly Lourenco Marques) is the capital of Mozambique and was once all the rage for jetsetters in years gone by. Its exotic Portuguese colonial history and beauty drew many visitors prior to the civil war in the 1970s and 80s.
The war years took a heavy toll but Maputo is back in the spotlight and in the process of rejuvenation. Visitors to this Mozambique city can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage, architecture and customs while enjoying fresh peri peri prawns and great local beer at numerous restaurants and hotels. The city enjoys a reputation for good nightlife with a variety of bars and discos.
The best time to visit the capital of Mozambique is during the dry winter months from April to September when the days are sunny and nights are cool - Maputo tends to be hot, wet and humid in summer from October to April.
Maputo Tours
