Getting Around Mozambique

Public Transport

Mozambique does not have a very good public transport network. There are limited train services within Mozambique, which link its neighbouring countries to the Indian Ocean. A service operates from Johannesburg to Maputo via Komatipoort, Nelspruit and Pretoria three times a week. Another line links Nacala with Liwonde in Malawi, via Nampula and Cuamba.

Buses only operate between major towns where roads are in good condition. In rural areas you may catch a ride in converted passenger trucks, chapa-cems (or just chapas) or normal trucks (camions). Along the coast there are some ferry services. These are more frequent along the northern coast with regular services operating between Quelimane and Beira, and Quelimane, Nacala and Pemba.

Roads

Driving in Mozambique is not always as easy as it could be. The combination of the civil war and the floods has had a severe impact on the condition of the roads and in many parts of the country a 4x4 is essential. Roads are gradually being improved, however, and the roads south of Beira tend to be in good condition.

Potholes are actually the biggest road hazard in Mozambique. Other hazards to be aware of are roadblocks (make sure you have your driving license, vehicle registration, temporary import papers and traffic triangles, and that you are wearing your seatbelt), vehicles without lights at night and livestock on the roads.

Car hire is possible in most major towns, but should be booked in advance. There is a good network of petrol stations, though not in game reserves. For ecological reasons, we urge you not to drive on dunes and beaches. Driving in Mozambique is on the left side of the road.

Border Posts

Malawi: Mandimba/Chipode Milange/Mulanje Uongwe/Dedza Zobue/Mwaza

South Africa: Pafuri Ponta do Ouro/Kosi Bay Ressano Garcia/Lebombo

Swaziland: Namaacha/Lomahasha

Zambia: Cassacatiza/Chanida (open 24hrs) Zumbo/Luangwa

Zimbabwe: Cochemane/Nyama-Panda Espungabera/Mt Selinda Mecumbura/Mukumbura Zumbo/Kanyemba Machipanda/Forbes-Mutare

View our map of Mozambique

View our map of Africa

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