Travel Safety in Mozambique
Overview
There are several security risks in Mozambique. Crime is an issue in urban centres, particularly in Maputo and Beira. Petty crime is most common, but violent crime also occurs. Banditry is known to take place in some rural areas of the country. The crime risk in general is less significant in popular tourist areas such as Pemba, Inhambane, Tofu, Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane, Vilanculos and the Bazaruto archipelago.
Demonstrations take place relatively frequently in cities like Maputo, and can be violent and disruptive.
Foreign nationals (mostly resident businessmen of South Asian origin) have been kidnapped in Maputo, Beira and other cities by criminal gangs. The risk to short-term visitors is far lower.
There is an ongoing Islamist insurgency in Cabo Delgado province, which has led to elevated risks of crime, terrorism, conflict and kidnapping. These risks extend to the districts of Memba and Erati in eastern Nampula province, which border Cabo Delgado.
Medical services are poor across the country and acceptable care is only available in Maputo.
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Basic information
Medical:
198 (fire), 117 (ambulance) and 112 or 119 (police). Operators may not speak English. Response times and services are likely to be poor.
Money:
The currency is the Mozambican new metical (MZN).
ATMs that accept foreign bank cards are not widespread and likely to only be available in Maputo and tourist areas.
Credit cards are only accepted in some international hotels, restaurants and higher-end retailers.
Language:
The country’s main languages are Portuguese, Emakhuwa and Xichangan. English is not widely spoken.
Water:
Tap water is generally not safe to consume.
Connectivity:
3G and 4G available.