Tourist Resources in Maputo
The Ministry of Tourism (MITUR) manages tourism in Mozambique. Their website provides a good overview of tourism in the country. They do not have a local office in Maputo that caters to tourists.
Sightseeing in Maputo
In the 1960s and 70s, Maputo was often-regarded as one of Africa's most cosmopolitan and artistic cities. In the post-war era, the city is slowly rebuilding itself to its former glory - and this period of reconstruction makes the capital all the more interesting to explore.
- The Train Station: Designed by an associate of the Eiffel Tower, this station is more than an architectural delight - during the day, it houses an art gallery and at night it transforms into one of the city's most popular clubs.
- Praça da Independência and Cathedral of Nossa Senora da Conceição: In the center of the city, a large statue of the country's independence hero/first president, Samora Machel, is surrounded by neo-classical architecture and an impressive cathedral.
- Municipal Market and Casa Elefantes: Dive into local shopping as you explore the endless rows of the ever-stocked municipal market, before walking across the street to Casa Elefantes to pick up some of Mozambique's best capulanas.
- The Beach: Get out of the city center and venture out to Mozambique's stunning coastline by driving to Costa do Sol or taking the ferry to the ever-more-stunning Inhanca or Catembe.
- Hotel Polana: A stunning and luxurious oceanfront hotel, housed in one of the city's oldest buildings. Enjoy a dip in the pool or a cocktail on the patio, before indulging in a spectacular seafood meal at the hotel restaurant.
Tours in Mozambique
A number of South African and Mozambican companies operate tours in and around Maputo. Most offer tours and services in English, which is especially helpful for those who are new to the city and do not speak any Portuguese. Some of the most popular operators include:
There are also a number of international operators that organize country-wide tours for groups and individuals.
Festivals in Maputo
Mozambique's festivals are a jumble of historical celebrations and modern cultural shows. Some of the most popular festivals among the expatriate and South African communities include:
- AZGO Festival: An art and music festival held annually in May.
- STRAB Festival: A huge rhythm and blues festival held in May in Ponta Malongane, near the southern South African border.
- Independence Day: Celebrated with parades and parties on June 25 across Mozambique.
- FORR Festival: A rock and roll festival held in September, also in Ponta Malongane.
- Maputo Fashion Week: An annual celebration of local fashion, held in December
Discounts
Discounts are not often extended to expatriates in Mozambique. Usually, pricing will be divided into national and foreigner rates, with occasional discounts for students.
Update 15/06/2015
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