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    Safari in Mozambique
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    Safari in Mozambique

    Southern Africa · 35 parks

    Best time
    Jul–Sep
    Lodges
    from $225pp/night
    Visa & health
    See travel info

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    Mozambique combines safari and beach in a single destination, with recovering wildlife populations in Gorongosa National Park and pristine Indian Ocean coastline. The Bazaruto Archipelago offers marine safaris with whale sharks and dugongs.

    Mozambique safari regions

    Safari Regions

    Best time to visit Mozambique

    For the quintessential Mozambique safari and beach experience, we recommend timing your visit during the dry season, from May to October. This period offers superb game viewing in Gorongosa National...

    January

    Now
    low

    Wet Season

    Hot and humid, with heavy rainfall across much of the country. Roads in some national parks can become challenging to navigate.

    The landscape is lush and green, offering fantastic birding opportunities as migratory species are present. Game viewing can be more difficult due to dense vegetation.

    We recommend focusing on the pristine coastal areas, where marine activities like snorkeling and diving in the Bazaruto Archipelago remain excellent.

    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Quirimbas Archipelago

    February

    low

    Wet Season

    Continues to be hot and very humid, with significant rainfall, particularly in the southern regions. Expect afternoon thunderstorms.

    Birdlife is at its peak, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Many antelope species are calving, bringing new life to the vibrant landscapes.

    This is an ideal month for those seeking solitude and exceptional birding, especially along the less-visited coastal stretches.

    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Quirimbas Archipelago

    March

    low

    Wet Season

    Rains begin to subside towards the end of the month, though it remains hot and humid. The air starts to feel a little lighter.

    Vegetation is still very thick, but as the rains lessen, animals may become slightly easier to spot. Birding remains strong.

    We love March for its vibrant, green landscapes and the promise of improving safari conditions as the dry season approaches.

    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Quirimbas Archipelago
    Gorongosa National Park

    April

    low

    Shoulder Season

    Rainfall significantly decreases, and temperatures begin to cool down, making for more comfortable conditions. Humidity drops noticeably.

    The landscapes are still beautifully green, but water sources are starting to diminish, causing animals to gather more predictably. Game viewing improves.

    April is a fantastic transition month, offering a blend of lush scenery and increasingly rewarding wildlife encounters in Gorongosa.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Limpopo National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Cooler, drier weather sets in, with pleasant daytime temperatures and clear skies. Nights can be quite cool.

    Vegetation thins out, and animals increasingly congregate around permanent waterholes, making for excellent game viewing. Predator activity is high.

    We recommend May as the start of prime safari season; Gorongosa National Park truly comes alive with visible wildlife.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Limpopo National Park
    Niassa National Reserve

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    One of the coolest and driest months, offering ideal safari weather with comfortable temperatures and very little rain.

    Game viewing is superb, with animals easily spotted around water sources. This is a fantastic time for photography due to clear skies.

    The lodge feels luxurious and timeless during June, offering perfect conditions for a classic safari experience in Gorongosa.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Limpopo National Park
    Niassa National Reserve

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    Continues to be cool and dry, with comfortable daytime temperatures. Nights can be chilly, especially in inland areas.

    Peak game viewing conditions persist, with high concentrations of animals. Humpback whales begin to arrive along the coast for their migration.

    We love July for combining thrilling Gorongosa safaris with the start of incredible whale watching opportunities along the Indian Ocean coastline.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Quirimbas Archipelago

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Still cool and dry, with consistent, pleasant weather across the country. Perfect for all outdoor activities.

    Game viewing remains at its absolute best, with predictable sightings. The humpback whale migration is in full swing, offering spectacular marine encounters.

    August offers the ultimate Mozambique experience-intense safari action paired with the sensational sight of breaching whales.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Quirimbas Archipelago
    +1

    September

    moderate-high

    Dry Season

    Temperatures start to rise, but it remains dry and sunny. The heat is generally manageable and pleasant.

    Wildlife sightings are still excellent as animals remain concentrated around dwindling water sources. Whale sharks begin to appear in the Bazaruto Archipelago.

    We recommend September for the unique chance to spot both big game on land and magnificent whale sharks in the ocean.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Niassa National Reserve

    October

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    Hot and dry, with temperatures steadily climbing before the onset of the rains. Can feel quite warm, especially inland.

    Animals are highly concentrated around the last remaining water sources, leading to dramatic predator-prey interactions. Migratory birds start to return.

    The sunsets are sensational in October, and the intense wildlife action makes it a prime month for serious safari enthusiasts and photographers.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Limpopo National Park
    Bazaruto Archipelago

    November

    low

    Wet Season

    The first rains begin, bringing relief from the heat and transforming the dry landscape into a vibrant green. Humidity increases.

    Calving season commences for many species, bringing adorable newborns. Birding becomes exceptional as migratory birds arrive in large numbers. Whale sharks are more prevalent.

    We love November for its fresh, green scenery, the abundance of new life, and the fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and marine encounters.

    Gorongosa National Park
    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Quirimbas Archipelago

    December

    moderate-high

    Wet Season

    Hot and humid with increasing rainfall, particularly towards the end of the month. Expect lush conditions and occasional heavy downpours.

    The parks are beautifully green, and birdlife is abundant. While game viewing can be more challenging due to dense vegetation, the coastal areas thrive.

    A festive time to enjoy the stunning coastal resorts and the vibrant, green beauty of Gorongosa, despite the occasional rain.

    Bazaruto Archipelago
    Quirimbas Archipelago
    Gorongosa National Park
    Best months:
    July
    August
    September
    Jan
    Fair25°C228mm
    Feb
    Fair25°C203mm
    Mar
    Fair25°C160mm
    Apr
    Great24°C59mm
    May
    Excellent23°C17mm
    Jun
    Great21°C24mm
    Jul
    Excellent21°C12mm
    Aug
    Excellent22°C12mm
    Sep
    Excellent25°C11mm
    Oct
    Great26°C29mm
    Nov
    Great27°C49mm
    Dec
    Good27°C127mm
    Great (4-5)
    Good (3)
    Poor (1-2)
    Best month

    What a Mozambique safari costs

    • Lodges: from $225pp/night up to $1,080, across 6 priced lodges
    • Add park fees, flights and transfers; most safaris are sold as packages that include them.
    Full Mozambique cost guide

    Top safari lodges in Mozambique

    More lodges in Mozambique

    Wildlife in Mozambique

    192 species recorded in Mozambique20 threatened

    Bookable safari packages

    Curated safari packages featuring Mozambique, bookable through Safari.com. Prices are guide rates; our partner finalises the itinerary.

    8-Day All-Inclusive Kruger to Mozambique Fly-In Safari

    8-Day All-Inclusive Kruger to Mozambique Fly-In Safari

    Enjoy the adventure and excitement of a Big Five Kruger safari, rounded off with an idyllic, unspoilt Mozambican beach retreat. This is the best of both worlds’ experience on one holiday.

    • 3 nights at Lukimbi Safari Lodge in Kruger, then 4 at Massinga Beach in Mozambique
    • Twice-daily Big Five game drives plus guided bush walks
    From $4,178
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    9 Day Bushveld And Beach Escape

    9 Day Bushveld And Beach Escape

    This 9-day tour is an exploration of one of Africa's most renowned safari destinations and a gorgeous tropical beach in Mozambique.

    • 3 nights at Mjejane River Lodge bordering Kruger National Park
    • Open-vehicle Big Five game drives in Kruger and Mjejane Game Reserve
    From $2,502
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    9-Day RockFig South Africa and Santorini Mozambique Safari

    9-Day RockFig South Africa and Santorini Mozambique Safari

    This safari will take guests through Ultra-Lux experiences, romantic settings and unmatched wildlife encounters.

    • 4 nights at RockFig Safari Lodge in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
    • Twice-daily game drives and bush walks tracking the Big Five
    From $6,737
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    8-Day Azura Benguerra - 50% off for couples

    8-Day Azura Benguerra - 50% off for couples

    ALL-INCLUSIVE 5-star Luxury Experience on Benguerra Island, Bazaruto.

    • 7 nights in a beachfront villa with private plunge pool at Azura Benguerra
    • All meals, drinks and daily sunset cocktail at your private sala
    From $7,400
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    6-Day Mozambique Fly-In All-Inclusive Package

    6-Day Mozambique Fly-In All-Inclusive Package

    An undisturbed beachfront framed by serene blue waters and lush, captivating greenery. This safari offers guests a blend of romance, adventure, and luxury.

    • 5 nights at Machangulo Beach Lodge on Mozambique's coast
    • Scenic 90-minute boat transfer from Maputo through the bay
    From $2,395
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    6-Day Massinga Mozambique Luxury Fly-in Safari

    6-Day Massinga Mozambique Luxury Fly-in Safari

    Embark on an adventure to the Massinga Beach Lodge in Mozambique to experience the luxury beach and bush safari.

    • 5 nights at Massinga Beach Lodge in an Oceanfront Deluxe Room
    • Snorkelling at the famed Fingers Reef rock formation
    From $2,014
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire

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    Visa, health & safety in Mozambique

    Visa Requirements for Mozambique

    Check if you need a visa to visit Mozambique

    Health & Vaccinations for Mozambique

    Loading health information for Mozambique...

    Mozambique offers an incredible blend of recovering wilderness and stunning coastline, but a safe journey requires careful planning. We prioritize up-to-date vaccinations, diligent malaria prevention, and robust travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation. With these precautions, you're free to immerse yourself in the sensational sunsets and vibrant marine life without undue worry.

    Vaccinations

    Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. We always carry our vaccination certificate.
    Hepatitis A and B - Highly recommended. These are standard for travel to many parts of Africa.
    Typhoid - Recommended, especially if you plan to eat street food or venture outside tourist areas.
    Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap) - Ensure this is up-to-date.
    Rabies - Recommended for longer stays or if you'll be in close contact with animals, which is common on safari.

    Visa Requirements

    Most nationalities will need a visa to enter Mozambique. We typically apply online or get one on arrival, but always check the latest regulations for your specific passport before you travel. It's usually a straightforward process, but preparation saves time.

    Malaria

    Mozambique is a high-risk malaria zone throughout the country, including coastal areas and national parks like Gorongosa. We strongly recommend taking antimalarial prophylaxis. Consult your doctor for the best option for you. Beyond medication, we always use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk and dawn, and sleep under mosquito nets provided by lodges.

    Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is non-negotiable for us when visiting Mozambique. We always ensure our policy includes comprehensive medical coverage, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation. Given the remote nature of some safari camps and the marine activities in Bazaruto, having air evacuation cover is crucial. Check that your policy covers all planned activities, including diving or specific safari adventures.

    Emergency Numbers

    police: 112
    ambulance: 112

    Travel Advisory

    We've found Mozambique to be generally safe for tourists, especially in established safari areas and beach resorts. However, petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in cities like Maputo and Beira. We advise against walking alone at night and always keeping valuables out of sight. Road safety can be a concern; roads are often poorly maintained, and driving at night is best avoided due to unlit vehicles and pedestrians. We always arrange transfers through reputable lodges or tour operators.

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