Mozambique travel advice
Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)
Last updated: ET
On this page
- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Mozambique - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Mozambique due to crime, kidnapping and terrorism.
Some districts of Cabo Delgado province - Avoid all travel
Avoid all travel to the following districts of Cabo Delgado province due to ongoing insurgency by extremist forces:
- Ancuabe
- Chuire
- Ibo
- Macomia
- Meluco
- Metuge
- Mocímboa da Praia
- Montepuez
- Mueda
- Muidumbe
- Nangade
- Palma
- Quissanga
Rest of Cabo Delgado Province - Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid non-essential travel to the rest of Cabo Delgado province due to the risk that the insurgency expands to these areas. This includes Pemba City, which could be considered a target by extremist forces.
Parts of Nampula Province - Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid non-essential travel to the following districts of Nampula Province due to an increase in insurgency by extremist forces:
- Erati
- Memba
Safety and security
Cabo Delgado province
Extremists have been active in northern districts of Cabo Delgado since late 2017. Militants have staged attacks against major urban areas and have targeted both security forces and civilians. They have burned villages, raided police stations and conducted roadside ambushes and attacks with machetes and firearms against residents. This has resulted in hundreds of casualties and more than 700 000 displaced persons. Ongoing military operations to fight insurgency in the north of the province has forced militants to spread to districts further south. The provincial capital of Pemba could become a target for these groups.
Expect a heightened security presence in Cabo Delgado, especially in the northern and central districts. Violent clashes between armed groups and security forces occur frequently.
Threats of kidnappings and criminal activity, such as contraband smuggling and illegal mining, also contribute to the deteriorating security situation in the whole province, including in the provincial capital, Pemba.
Journalists and researchers might need authorization from local authorities to travel to remote parts of Mozambique, particularly to Cabo Delgado Province.
Our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in Cabo Delgado Province is extremely limited.
Sofala and Manica provinces
The situation remains unstable and unpredictable in the provinces of Sofala and Manica despite the peace agreement signed between local political parties in August 2019.
Dissident groups have attacked vehicles, trucks, and buses, travelling on the EN1 road near Gorongosa, in Sofala province, and along the EN6 road between Chimoio and Tica. These attacks have left several passengers dead.
Crime
Crime rates have increased in recent years.
Petty crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, muggings and purse snatching, is common throughout the country. Pedestrians and joggers are frequent targets, even during daylight hours. Thieves also target vehicles parked outside shopping centres, resorts and transportation hubs.
In Maputo, incidents of attacks and muggings have increased along Avenida da Marginal area, along the coast. Criminals take advantage of thick bushes to hide and escape, especially on the Avenida Friedrich Engels and Rua Caracol.
Crime increases significantly during the Christmas holiday season.
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas
- Avoid walking at night, even in tourist areas
- Avoid showing signs of affluence
- Don’t leave valuables in cars
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
Violent crime
Violent crime, such as armed robbery, carjacking and home burglary, occurs frequently. It’s particularly prevalent on the outskirts of large cities such as Maputo, Beira, Nampula and Nacala.
Keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely risk free.
- Exercise a high degree of caution at all times
- Expect a heighten security presence in these cities
- Avoid travelling alone, especially at night
- Stay in reputable accommodations with good security
- If threatened by robbers, don’t resist
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism, particularly in Cabo Delgado province where an Islamist militant insurgency has steadily increased the scope of its operations and number of attacks since 2019. They are especially active in the central and northern districts of Mocimboa de Praia, Macomia, Muidumbe and Palma.
Further attacks are likely.
Targets could include:
- vehicle convoys travelling between towns
- pedestrians and civilian residences in rural villages
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Kidnapping
There is a threat of kidnapping, especially in larger cities such as Maputo and Beira. Since late 2019, kidnaps have occurred in the following affluent areas of Maputo:
- Coop
- Sommerschield
- Polana Canico
- Matola
A significant kidnapping threat has also emerged in Cabo Delgado province in the recent years.
Individuals perceived as wealthy, including foreigners, tend to be preferred targets. Some individuals have given in to extortion to avoid the reoccurrence of kidnapping in their families. Kidnappers frequently operate during the day.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times
- Change your travel patterns regularly
- Avoid showing signs of affluence
- Don’t travel alone at night
- If threatened by kidnappers, do not resist
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Incidents of card cloning have increased lately. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others when making payments at a point of sale
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Police forces
Police forces are understaffed, poorly trained, and poorly equipped, which affects their ability to be effective. Response time is slow, especially outside urban areas.
There are reports of widespread corruption among the police ranks. Police officers sometimes try to extort drivers and pedestrians by threatening detention or confiscating identity documents.
If police threaten you with a fine:
- remain calm, courteous but firm
- show original documents but keep them in your possession
- try to cooperate by following the instructions of police to avoid escalation
- ask for a clear explanation of the offence and a written fine that can be paid at a police station
- don’t pay a bribe to anyone
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. They are generally good in urban areas but roads outside of Maputo are poorly lit and lack maintenance and signage. Fuel stations are rare and police assistance is unreliable when leaving the capital.
The rainy season poses further hazard. From December to April, driving conditions may be hazardous. Flooding and sometimes near-zero visibility pose a threat. Outside cities and off major highways, you may need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to travel.
Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds. Drinking and driving is also prevalent at any time of the day or night. Accidents causing fatalities are common. They often involve pedestrians.
Traffic law enforcement consists of stationary traffic police officers on foot. They randomly stop vehicles for inspections or identification. If you don’t carry proper documentation, the police may attempt to bribe you.
Checkpoints are also common. Only national police officers have the authority to establish checkpoints. They may also solicit bribes.
After a vehicular accident, a large crowd may gather at the scene of the incident and become hostile. If this happens, get away from the scene and drive to the nearest police station.
Carjacking is frequent in Maputo as well as on roads to South Africa, Eswatini and Zimbabwe.
On the road in Mozambique:
- keep doors locked and windows closed at all times
- don’t expect drivers to look out for pedestrians
- avoid travelling after dark, especially outside of major urban areas
- travel in convoys when possible
- carry a cellphone with you
- maintain a full tank of gas
- keep supply of water and non-perishable snacks
- expect roadblocks and checkpoints
- obey police when asked to stop
- don’t pay a bribe to anyone
Public transportation
Public transportation is limited.
Buses
Privately owned minibuses, known as chapas, are not safe. They are often overcrowded and poorly maintained. They are frequently involved in fatal accidents.
Private intercity buses are available, especially to South African destinations. They are often better maintained and safer.
Taxis
Taxis provide safe options.
If you use a taxi in Mozambique:
- avoid hailing it on the street
- only use registered taxis from reputable providers, preferably arranged through your hotel
- avoid yellow and green taxis, in which there are reports of thefts
- ensure that there is no other passenger in the car
Train
Domestic rail service is overcrowded and slow.
Shortages
Fuel shortages occur occasionally.
- Never let your tank go lower than half-full
- Keep fuel supplies on hand
- Carefully plan all road travel
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters of the Indian Ocean. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from Mozambican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Mozambique.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days per year
Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days per year
Work visa: required
Student visa: required
Residency visa required
Tourist and business visa exemption
Canadian tourists or business travelers may be exempt from applying for a visa under certain conditions. This exemption applies to stays up to 90 consecutive or interrupted days per year.
Upon arrival, you must provide :
- a return or onward ticket
- a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Mozambique
- fees payment
- proof of a hotel reservation
You are not eligible for the visa exemption if you reside in private accommodations with a local citizen or resident.
Visa pre-authorizations
If you’re not eligible for the visa exemption, you can apply for an e-visa pre-authorization for certain types of visas through the Government of Mozambique’s e-visa portal.
Visa pre-authorizations are only available for the following types of visas: crew member travel, humanitarian assistance efforts, sports and cultural activity participation, border and investment.
Visa pre-authorizations are not guaranteed visas. Upon arrival to Mozambique, you must submit all required documents to immigration authorities for a final decision.
You can pay the fees on arrival with a credit card or local currency.
E-visa portal– Government of Mozambique
Visas
You can apply for a visa at the nearest embassy or consulate.
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of accommodation.
Make sure customs officials properly inspect and stamp your passport and visa upon entry to avoid possible fines when leaving the country. If you overstay your authorized visa period, you may be fined for each day you illegally reside in Mozambique.
Visa information- Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique in the United States
Other entry requirements
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and a proof of accommodation.
Health screening
Due to the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease in other African countries, upon arrival, you will need to:
- fill out a health questionnaire at the airport
- provide the address where you will reside during your stay in Mozambique
- provide a telephone number to contact you
Children and travel
If you are transiting by road through South Africa with children under the age of 18, you may be subject to special entry requirements.
Useful links
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023
- Polio: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Malaria
Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.
Malaria is a risk to travellers to this destination.
Antimalarial medication is recommended for most travellers to this destination and should be taken as recommended. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:
- Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
- Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
- Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
- Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.
If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).
Polio – WHO Temporary Recommendations
Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Wild poliovirus (WPV1) and/or circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV1 or cVDPV3)) is/are present in this destination.
This destination is subject to Temporary Recommendations under the World Health Organization’s polio Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.
Recommendations:
- Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
- One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult.
- Make sure that the polio vaccinations are documented on the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis. This is the only document accepted as proof of vaccination. It is provided at Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres.
- Carry the certificate as proof of vaccination.
Proof of vaccination:
- Travellers who are visiting for longer than 4 weeks may be required to receive a dose of polio vaccine 1 to 12 months before they leave this destination. This may be required even if you have previously received all the recommended polio vaccine doses as part of the routine vaccine schedule in Canada.
- Make sure that the polio vaccination is documented on the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis.
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Cholera
Risk
Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.
To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions.
Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:
- visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
- visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring
Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Schistosomiasis
There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and rural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.
Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, risk of dengue is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Lymphatic filariasis
Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.
Rift Valley fever
Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
Medical services and facilities
Health care is inadequate. You will likely require medical evacuation to South Africa in case of serious illness or injury.
Basic medical facilities are available. Most physicians and medical providers don’t speak English or French. They expect immediate cash payment.
Medications are not always available.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Photography
Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:
- military sites
- government buildings
- bridges, harbours and airports
Seek permission before taking photos of official buildings and individuals. There are certain areas in Maputo where you are not allowed to walk, such as roads surrounding presidential palaces and military installations.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mozambique.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mozambique, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
Travellers with dual citizenship
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Mozambique.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mozambique by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mozambique to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
- Travelling with children
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Identification
You must carry photo identification.
Police frequently ask visitors to show ID and travel documents.
- Provide a copy of your documents
- If requested, show the originals but retain them
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
You must have third-party insurance, which you can obtain at any port of entry.
All cars must be equipped with:
- two reflective triangles
- a reflective vest that you must wear when repairing, loading or unloading a vehicle
You must carry an international driving permit.
Dress and behaviour
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
Money
The currency in Mozambique is the metical (MZN). The import or export of local currency is illegal.
When entering Mozambique, you must declare the amount of foreign currency in your possession. This includes:
- bank notes
- cheques
- traveller’s cheques
The U.S. dollar and South African rand are the easiest currencies to exchange in banks or exchange bureaus. Only use authorized currency exchange bureaus.
Credit cards are not widely accepted, except in Maputo. Most businesses accept payment in meticals, U.S. dollars or South African rand.
Hotels often only accept foreign currency.
Natural disasters and climate
Rainy season
The rainy season extends from November to April. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges, damaged.
During this season, cyclones also occur along the coast. If you decide to travel to Mozambique during this time:
- know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 112
- ambulance (local service provider Aeromed):
- 845555911
- 84911
- 82911
- firefighters: + 258 82 476 8990
You should also carry contact information for local police and medical facilities.
Consular assistance
Maputo - High Commission of Canada
Eswatini, Angola
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Mozambique, in Maputo, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.