Mozambique

Terrorism is a threat in Mozambique, particularly in the northern provinces of Cabo Delgado and the Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province. The security situation is unpredictable. 

Violent clashes between insurgent militants and security forces occur regularly in Cabo Delgado and Nampula. Attacks are highly likely to continue in these areas, and may occur in areas not previously affected by terrorist activity. 

Terrorists may target foreign nationals and foreign interests, including in towns and other areas where foreign companies operate and where expatriate staff reside. 

An attack could happen anywhere and at any time.

There are times when an attack might be more likely, including:

• major holidays
• religious events
• major sporting events
• significant dates and anniversaries
• during elections, especially at political events such as rallies

To reduce your risks:

• avoid areas previously impacted by terrorist activity
• consider likely terrorist targets and the level of security provided
• always be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report any suspicious items or activities to police
• take official warnings and reports of attacks seriously
• monitor the media for threats 
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's a terrorist attack:

• leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to do so
• avoid the area afterwards in case of more attacks
• let your family and friends know you're safe as soon as possible

Don't gather in groups after an attack. This also applies if you're evacuated from a building for security reasons, such as a bomb threat.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnapping can happen anywhere, even in places that seem safe.

There's a threat of kidnapping in Mozambique. 

Terrorist groups with links to Islamic extremism are present, particularly in the northern provinces of Cabo Delgado and Nampula. Kidnappings occur regularly in Cabo Delgado province and have also occurred in cities such as Maputo City, Matola and Beira. 

Organised criminal groups also operate throughout Mozambique, and kidnappings for ransom targeting individuals perceived to be wealthy, including foreign nationals, have increased.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide assistance in these destinations is extremely limited. 

You’re responsible for your own safety. You can find more information on how to reduce your risk of kidnapping here: Kidnapping

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Reducing the risk of kidnapping
• Scams that affect travellers
• Reducing the risk of piracy 

Violent clashes between armed militant groups linked to Islamist extremism and security forces have occurred in Cabo Delgado province. There's an increased presence of security forces in the province, and clashes between security forces and insurgents are frequent.

Raids on towns and villages, roadside ambushes and other attacks can occur. 

Militants have used machetes and firearms to conduct lethal attacks, as well as destroying vehicles, buildings and infrastructure. It is possible that violence could spill over into other districts. 

We advise do not travel to Cabo Delgado, and the Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province.

Attacks have also occurred on the EN1 road between the Save River and Muxungue and from Gorongosa to Caia, and on the EN6 road between Beira and Chimoio. 

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to these areas, you should:

• get professional security advice
• check that your travel insurer will cover you
• check local and social media for updates before you travel
• follow the advice of local authorities.

Demonstrations and protests

Demonstrations and civil unrest can occur in Mozambique with little notice. These can lead to violence and confrontations with local law enforcement. 

Disruptions to traffic and essential services and supplies can also occur.

To reduce your risks of being affected by demonstrations and protests, you should:

• avoid large crowds
• be aware of your surroundings
• maintain a low profile and do not record or photograph gatherings
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor local media for updates and adjust your travel plans accordingly
• carry certified copies of identification and keep original documents in a secure location
• consider your personal security
• keep your mobile phone charged
• have a prepared plan for emergencies, including ensuring you have sufficient supplies of cash, water, food, medicines and fuel, as ongoing strikes may lead to supply shortages. 

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent attacks, including sexual assaults, can occur at any time of day.

Criminal activity increases at night and during holiday periods. Criminals may target travellers and those perceived to be wealthy. Be alert, avoid walking alone, especially after dark.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including sexual assault, get medical assistance. The risk of HIV/AIDS infection is high. 

Petty crime is common and includes:

• mugging and robbery
• bag snatching

Armed robbery and break-ins are common in Maputo and other towns. Gangs of armed robbers have attacked restaurants and cafes after dark.

Carjacking is also common. Be extra careful:

• in Maputo
• on roads to Mutare, Zimbabwe
• on roads to South Africa
• at toll booths

Serious assaults and robberies have occurred in coastal resorts in Inhambane province.

To protect yourself from crime:

• stay alert to your surrounding at all times
• don't carry bags that are easy to snatch
• avoid going out after dark, even in tourist areas
• stay away from isolated beaches and picnic spots
• secure your windows, doors and gates at your accommodation, including when you're inside your residence
• leave valuables, such as your passport, in a secure place.

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security

Mozambique experiences natural disasters and extreme weather, including:

• cyclones
• flooding
• mudslides
• earthquakes

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• always carry your passport in a waterproof bag
• keep in contact with family and friends
• check media and local sources for information
• follow advice of local authorities
• don't undertake sea, land or air travel if it's not safe to do so

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System 
• Mozambique National Meteorology Institute (in Portuguese, with an English language option).

Cyclones and severe weather

Cyclones may occur in coastal areas from November to May. The direction and strength of cyclones can change with little warning.

If there's a cyclone or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• roads and bridges may collapse or be blocked
• ports may close
• it may disrupt essential services, such as electricity and communications
• adequate shelter may not be available

If a cyclone or severe storm is approaching:

• know how to evacuate from your hotel
• identify your local shelter

Flooding

The rainy season is from November to April. 

Flooding can occur on low ground around rivers and in coastal areas. 

Flash floods and mudslides can block roads, highways and bridges and cause disruption to essential services including telecommunications, food, water and transport. 

Earthquakes

Mozambique experiences earthquakes.

Ask about the earthquake safety measures wherever you stay, including hotels and public and private buildings.

We don't provide a comprehensive list of health risks, diseases or outbreaks for every destination. Before you travel, check the latest health advice from the Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria occurs year-round, particularly outside Maputo. 

Consider taking anti-malarial medication. 

Other common diseases spread by insects include:

• dengue
• filariasis
• African sleeping sickness

To protect yourself from insect-borne diseases:

• check your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

HIV/AIDS

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Other waterborne, foodborne and infectious disease risks include:

• cholera
• hepatitis
• measles
• mpox
• rabies
• schistosomiasis (bilharzia)
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• in rural areas, boil drinking water or drink bottled water with the lids sealed
• avoid ice cubes in rural areas
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water to avoid waterborne diseases
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities are limited.

You'll need to pay upfront for treatment, even if you have travel insurance.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include prison sentences.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Personal identification

By law, you must carry personal identity documents at all times and present them on request to the authorities.

Personal ID includes:

• a passport (must be original, copies are not accepted)
• other photo ID

Keep a digital copy of your ID and all travel documents.

Other laws

You must have permission to photograph:

• government buildings
• other infrastructure
• officials

It's illegal to export or import the local currency, Meticais.

You must have a licence to purchase or trade endangered wildlife products, such as ivory and rhino horn.

More information:

• Wildlife trade

Mozambique recognises dual nationality.

More information:

• Advice for dual nationals

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal, but there are local sensitivities. Avoid public displays of affection.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visas

To enter Mozambique, you'll need a valid tourist visa, a valid working or temporary residence visa, or an identification document and foreign residence (DIRE). 

You may be eligible for an eVisa, depending on the length of your stay. Go to the Mozambique official visa portal for more information.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. 

Contact the Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique for details on visas and document requirements.

Border measures

You don't need to request authorisation to exit Mozambique.

Land border crossings into neighbouring countries may be restricted or closed at short notice. 

Contact the nearest Mozambique embassy or consulate for details about currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Travelling with children under 18 years

If you’re entering or exiting Mozambique with children under the age of 18, you'll need to present certain documents to authorities.

If travelling with both parents, you'll need to provide:

• proof of parentage, such as a long-form birth certificate for each child

If the child is travelling without one or both parents, you'll need to provide: 

• proof of parentage, such as a long-form birth certificate
• a notarized parental consent affidavit, translated into Portuguese

If you are transiting by road through South Africa with children under 18, you may be subject to special entry requirements.

Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for more information. 

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Mozambique if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever. If you cannot present your yellow fever certificate you will be detained and returned to your country of departure. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Travel via South Africa

If you're travelling through South Africa, you may also need:

• a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate
• documents for parents or guardians travelling with children
• an online traveller declaration

South Africa doesn't accept provisional travel documents. Other conditions may apply.

More information:

• Travel advice for South Africa

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

The local currency is Mozambique Metical (MZN). It's illegal to export or import MZN.

You can get MZN by exchanging:

• US dollars and South African Rand in urban centres
• traveller's cheques, in US dollars or Euros, at major banks in Maputo

You can only change traveller's cheques for MZN. It's difficult to change traveller's cheques outside of Maputo. You may be charged a high rate of commission.

In Maputo, ATMs will often accept international credit cards. You can use credit cards in most places. Mastercard is not accepted by all vendors and cannot be used to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Before you travel, ask your bank if your cards will work in Mozambique.

Keep your card in sight at all times during transactions.

More information:

• Scams that affect travellers

Landmines

All known minefields have been cleared. However, risks remain.

Take care travelling away from the main road networks in remote and rural areas. Be very careful in the central and southern provinces.

Stick to well-travelled roads.

Driving permit

To drive, you must have both:

• a valid Australian driver licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

You're more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Mozambique than in Australia. It's dangerous to drive at night on rural roads. 

Driving hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads
• poor local driving practices
• animals and pedestrians on poorly lit roads, especially in rural areas

If you plan to travel outside Maputo during the rainy season from November to April, you'll need a 4WD vehicle.

During the rainy season, road damage and floods may occur, including in:

• Gaza
• Inhambane
• Sofala
• Zambezia
• Tete
• the North-South road

Some pedestrians may deliberately cause accidents to extort money from you.

If you plan to drive in Mozambique:

• check you have the right insurance
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• ask for local advice on road conditions outside major centres
• keep doors locked and windows closed at all time
• avoid travelling after dark
• ensure you have adequate fuel for your trip

Stop at police signals, including at checkpoints. Checkpoints are common. Only national police have the authority to establish a road checkpoint. Police may conduct a vehicle inspection or request identification documents. Failure to provide identification documents may result in a fine. 

Police might ask for a bribe. If police request a bribe:

• remain calm and courteous
• show original documentation but do not hand them over
• ask for a clear explanation and request a written fine to be paid at a police station

Unofficial checkpoints have been reported throughout the country.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike or similar other vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

If using taxis, only engage registered taxis and limousines from reputable companies. Try to book them through your hotel.

App-based transport services are increasingly available, particularly in Maputo.

Public transport

Avoid public transport. It can be unreliable and unsafe.

Choose to hire a car and driver from a reputable provider.

Sea travel

Piracy is a threat in the Indian Ocean.

Somali pirates have attacked shipping vessels up to 1000 nautical miles (1852 km) from the Somali coast. Targets include:

• commercial vessels
• pleasure craft
• luxury cruise liners

Read piracy reports from the International Maritime Bureau.

If you decide to travel by boat in the Indian Ocean:

• take security precautions
• be alert to threats

Air travel

Check Mozambique's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• airline
• travel agent
• tour operator
• employer
• insurance provider

Fire and rescue services

Call 198.

Medical emergencies

Call 117 or go to a hospital.

Police

Call 119 or visit the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in Mozambique. It provides limited consular and passport assistance. The ability of the Australian Government to provide consular help to Australians in 'do not travel' locations is extremely limited. 

Australian Consulate, Mozambique

Australian Consulate
405 Rua de Tchamba, Somerschield
Maputo, Mozambique

Phone: +258 84 693 3226

Email: australianconsulmoz@gmail.com

For full consular or passport assistance in Mozambique please contact the Australian High Commission in South Africa.

Australian High Commission, Pretoria

292 Orient Street
Arcadia
Pretoria, South Africa

Phone: +27 12 423 6000
Email: consular.pretoria@dfat.gov.au
Website: southafrica.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australian High Commission, South Africa
Instagram: Australian High Commission, South Africa
X: @AuHCSouthAfrica

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia