Maputo is a vibrant city, with good food, parties and a mix of cultures from within Mozambique, the region and the wider world. The city has the sea on two sides with the wide modern Avenida Marginal following the coast, along with top seafood restaurants, fashionable bars and Maputenses walking and exercising. The central Baixa has both boulevards and narrow streets and is busier and more chaotic than the coastal parts of the city.

Maputo, and Mozambique in general, is justifiably famous for its Seafood that’s available in many of Maputo’s top restaurants. There is also a selection of most of the world’s cuisines available in Maputo’s streets. Don’t miss getting a Prego (beef sandwich) from a street side café washed down with an ice cold 2M (local beer).

Maputo is more expensive than the rest of Mozambique and for those arriving from South Africa can seem expensive. Less so for those arriving from Europe. There are a couple of ways of getting to know the city. Hopping in a Txopela (tuk tuk) and seeing some of the sights is a good one. One good trip is below

City introductory tour

• Start from the Southern Sun. This old colonial style hotel is always worth a visit and a coffee or cocktail overlooking the sea.

• Then head in the Txopela to Feima, which is one of Africa’s top markets for cultural goods.  Bring lots of patience and some bargaining skills for your visit, however the park setting and plentiful cafés can make this quite a relaxing experience.

• Head back in the Txopela, past the central hospital and on to the Cathedral, Statue of Samora Machel and the City Hall. These are all right next to each other on Maputo’s strange central double roundabout. From there, carry on in the Txopela down to the Central Train Station.

• This grand building, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is regarded as one of the most impressive train stations in the world. It’s a shame it doesn’t have the train services to match.

• From the station, head back in the Txopela, past the Forteleza and along the Maputo waterfront. Stop for a coconut milk or sugar cane juice on the way and enjoy the view and the sea air.

• Then finally take the final drive in the Txopela up the hill to Dhow restaurant. This is a perfect location overlooking the bridge and Maputo Bay for a sun-downer. The food is Greek influenced and excellent.  Getting around by taxi is also possible but more expensive, though probably a better choice at night.
  One of the many walking tours are also a great way to see the city. As it’s built on a grid, Maputo is quite easy to navigate.

Safety

If you are coming from South Africa, Maputo will seem very safe. Though, as with any big city, you always need to keep a close eye on your belongings and the type of neighbourhood you are in. Once it gets dark it’s best to get around in a taxi or private car.

Culture

If you are visiting Mozambique, it is worth stopping in Maputo for a few days. Enjoy the food, events and get to know the city. It’s well worth making the time for. For culture vultures there are a range of museums, although they are quite basic. The Mafalala museum is well worth a visit for its links to Mozambican independence and its location in the famous Mafalala area of the city. Mafalala is associated with poets, musicians, writers, and revolutionaries. Most other museums are clustered around the Museu area or close to the Central Bank.

Music and Events

For those that love music, there are a wide range of events on. Ask our community what is on. The cultural centres (particularly CCFM, the French-Mozambican Cultural Centre) will also give you a good idea of what is on. Many bars and restaurants have DJs, especially at the weekend. South Beach is the place to be seen and always has a party vibe. The city also has a range of festivals and public events,

Food and Drink

The food and drink options are so wide that the best approach is to take a look at the ones here on Enjoy Mozambique and see what looks good. From Chinese to Portuguese to the famous seafood, there is plenty of choice. And remember to take into account the view as well as the menu.

Accommodation

For places to stay there is a wide choice from top colonial style hotels, business hotels, pensions, Airbnb’s, basic rooms to rent and more. You can choose something to suit any budget and find them here on Enjoy Mozambique