Maputo, Mozambique’s capital city, is a place where modern life meets rich cultural heritage. In 2023, it’s become an even more exciting destination for travelers. The city has seen a huge increase in visitors, with 86% more people coming to explore its attractions compared to previous years.
2024 is a special year for Maputo because of many new events and developments. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or nature, Maputo has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top things to see and do in this lively city.
1. Attend the Mozambique Gas & Energy Summit
The Mozambique Gas & Energy Summit is a big event in Maputo happening on November 20-21, 2024, at the Joaquim Chissano International Conference Centre. It’s important for people who work in energy, but it’s also interesting for others who want to learn about Mozambique’s future.
Over 3,500 people are expected to come, including government officials, company leaders, and investors. They’ll talk about new energy policies and projects. Even if you don’t work in energy, you can learn a lot about how Mozambique is growing and changing.
| Event | Mozambique Gas & Energy Summit |
| Date | November 20-21, 2024 |
| Location | Joaquim Chissano International Conference Centre, Maputo |
| Key Focus | Energy policies, project developments, networking |
| Cost | Starting at $500 |
Learn About Energy Developments
At the Mozambique Gas & Energy Summit, you’ll hear about new projects in natural gas and renewable energy. These projects could really change Mozambique’s economy. People will discuss how to make energy more sustainable and how to create more jobs in this field.
Join Networking Opportunities
The Mozambique Gas & Energy Summit is a great place to meet new people. There are special B2B (business-to-business) meetings where you can talk to industry experts. If you’re interested in business or energy, this is a chance to make valuable connections.
2. Visit the Maputo Central Railway Station
The Maputo Central Railway Station is a beautiful building that you must see in Mozambique. It was built between 1908 and 1916 by architects Mario Veiga and Alfredo Lisboa de Lima. The style is called Beaux-Arts, which means it’s very fancy and detailed.
The most impressive part is the big copper dome on top. It’s 51 meters high! Inside, you’ll see beautiful marble pillars and iron decorations. It’s like stepping back in time to when train travel was very luxurious.
| Address | Avenida 25 de Setembro, Maputo |
| Timings | Open 24/7 (best visited during daylight) |
| Entry Cost | Free |
| Notable Feature | Beaux-Arts design, 51-meter copper dome |
Walk Through History
The Maputo Central Railway Station played a big role in Mozambique’s history. It helped connect Maputo to other parts of the country and even to neighboring countries. Today, it’s still a working train station run by Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique (CFM).
In 2015, they opened a museum inside called Museu dos CFM. Here, you can learn about the history of trains in Mozambique. The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM, and on weekends and holidays from 10 AM to 4 PM. It’s closed on Mondays.
Spot Its Cinematic Role
Here’s a fun fact: the Maputo Central Railway Station was used as a filming location for the movie “Blood Diamond” in 2006. In the movie, it pretended to be a hotel in Sierra Leone. This shows how beautiful and versatile the building is.
3. Explore Local Art at the National Art Museum
The National Art Museum of Mozambique is in a building from the early 1900s. It opened in 2005 and has become very important for Mozambican art. There are over 5,000 pieces of art here!
You can see all kinds of art – paintings, sculptures, textiles, and ceramics. The museum shows both traditional and modern Mozambican art. This helps you understand how art in Mozambique has changed over time.
| Address | Avenida 25 de Setembro, Maputo |
| Timings | 9 AM – 5 PM (Weekdays), 9 AM – 1 PM (Saturdays) |
| Entry Cost | 100 Meticais (~$1.60 USD) |
| Notable Artists | Malangatana Ngwenya, Alberto Chissano |
Learn About Key Mozambican Artists
Some famous artists you’ll see at the National Art Museum of Mozambique are Malangatana Ngwenya and Alberto Chissano. Their work is really important in African art. The museum often has special exhibitions about these and other Mozambican artists.
Get Insight from Guided Tours
You can take a guided tour to learn more about the art. The guides can explain the stories behind the artworks and why they’re important. This is a great way to understand Mozambican culture better.
4. Attend the FIKANI 2024 Tourism Fair
FIKANI 2024 is a big tourism fair happening from August 8-11, 2024, at the Centro Cultural Moçambique China in Maputo. It’s a great place to learn about all the cool things you can do in Maputo, Mozambique.
There are over 220 exhibitors here. You can find information about hotels, travel agencies, and tour operators. There are 145 stands in total – 70 for hotels and tourism services, 35 for crafts, and 40 for food.
| Dates | August 8-11, 2024 |
| Location | Centro Cultural Moçambique China, Maputo |
| Entry Cost | Free (some workshops may have fees) |
| Key Focus | Tourism services, cultural performances, eco-tourism |
Watch Cultural Performances
One of the best parts of the FIKANI Tourism Fair is the cultural shows. You can watch traditional music and dance performances from different parts of Mozambique. This is a fun way to experience Mozambican culture.
Learn About Eco-Friendly Travel
FIKANI 2024 is big on eco-friendly tourism. You can learn about ways to travel that are good for nature and local communities. There are talks and workshops about things like eco-tourism and how to protect Mozambique’s beautiful natural areas while still enjoying them.
5. Walk Through the Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens
The Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens are a great place to relax in Maputo. They’re right in downtown, where Avenida 25 de Setembro meets Rua dos Lusiadas. These gardens have been here since 1885, when a British gardener named Thomas Honney created them.
The gardens are big – about 10 hectares. As you walk around, you’ll see all kinds of plants. Some are from Mozambique, and others come from different parts of the world. Look out for the African baobab trees and different types of aloe plants. These do really well in Maputo’s weather.
There are nice paths to walk on, and you’ll find ponds and fountains too. These make the gardens feel calm and peaceful. It’s a nice break from the busy city streets.
| Address | Avenida 25 de Setembro, Maputo |
| Timings | Open daily, 6 AM – 6 PM |
| Entry Cost | Free |
| Notable Landmarks | Samora Machel statue, ornamental ponds, tennis courts |
Visit the Statue of Samora Machel
In the middle of Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens, there’s a statue of Samora Machel. He was the first President of Mozambique after it became independent. The statue is there to remember how important he was in Mozambique’s history. It’s a good spot to learn a bit about the country’s past.
Relax in the Shaded Areas
The Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens have lots of benches and shady spots where you can sit and relax. Many local people come here for picnics or to spend time with friends and family. If you like sports, there are even tennis courts you can use.
The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when it’s not too hot. It’s a great place to spend a few hours just enjoying nature in the middle of the city.
6. See the Casa de Ferro (Iron House)
The Casa de Ferro, or Iron House, is one of the strangest buildings you’ll see in Maputo. It’s at the corner of Avenida Samora Machel and Rua Enrique de Sousa, right next to the Tunduru Gardens.
This house was built in 1892 and it’s made entirely of iron! A Belgian engineer named Joseph Danly designed it. The house was actually made in Belgium and then shipped to Mozambique in pieces, like a big puzzle.
The Iron House has three floors and a pointy roof. It was supposed to be where the Governor of Lourenço Marques (that’s what they used to call Maputo) would live.
But here’s the funny thing – nobody ever actually lived in it because it was too hot inside. A house made of metal isn’t great in Maputo’s warm weather!
| Address | Intersection of Avenida Samora Machel and Rua Enrique de Sousa, Maputo |
| Timings | 9 AM – 5 PM (Weekdays) |
| Entry Cost | Free |
| Historical Significance | Prefabricated iron structure, initially intended as Governor’s residence |
Learn Its History
Over the years, the Iron House of Maputo has been used for many things. It was a court for a while, then a school for girls. After Mozambique became independent, it was even the headquarters for the FRELIMO political party for a bit.
In 1966, they moved the house from its original spot to where it is now. In 2014, they fixed it up, and now the Ministry of Culture uses it. But don’t worry – anyone can still visit and look around.
Combine Your Visit with Jardim Tunduru
The Iron House is right next to the Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens. This means you can easily visit both places in one trip. It’s a great way to see some of Maputo’s interesting architecture and enjoy some nature at the same time.
7. Visit the Chissano Gallery
The Chissano Gallery is a special place in Maputo because it’s in the house where Alberto Chissano, a famous Mozambican sculptor, used to live. You can find it on Rua da Imprensa in Maputo.
Here, you can see lots of Chissano’s artwork. He was really good at making sculptures, especially from wood.
Alberto Chissano’s sculptures often show scenes from traditional Mozambican life and spiritual practices. The details in his work are amazing – you can really see the skill that went into making them.
The gallery doesn’t just have Chissano’s work. You can also see art by other local artists. This helps show how rich and diverse Mozambican art is.
| Address | Rua da Imprensa, Maputo |
| Timings | 10 AM – 5 PM (Tuesday – Saturday) |
| Entry Cost | 100 Meticais (~$1.60 USD) |
| Notable Works | Sculptures by Alberto Chissano |
Understand Mozambican Culture
Chissano’s art is a great way to learn about Mozambican culture. His sculptures and paintings often show important parts of life in Mozambique. When you look at his work, you’re not just seeing art – you’re getting a glimpse into the country’s traditions and beliefs.
Join an Art Workshop
Sometimes, the Chissano Gallery offers workshops where you can learn about art. These might teach you about sculpture techniques or painting styles. It’s a fun way to get hands-on experience with Mozambican art.
8. Visit the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in Maputo is a great place to learn about Mozambique’s animals and nature. You can find it where Rua dos Lusiadas meets Avenida Patrice Lumumba. The building itself is pretty old, built in 1911.
Inside, you’ll see lots of animals that live in Mozambique. They have mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish on display. One of the coolest things to see is a set of elephant fetuses. These show how baby elephants grow inside their mothers, from 1 month to 22 months.
The Natural History Museum also has a really rare fish called a coelacanth. People used to think that these fish were extinct, but then they found some living in the ocean. That’s why some people call it a “living fossil.”
| Address | Rua dos Lusiadas & Avenida Patrice Lumumba, Maputo |
| Timings | 8 AM – 4 PM (Monday – Friday), 8 AM – 1 PM (Saturday) |
| Entry Cost | 100 Meticais (~$1.60 USD) |
| Notable Exhibits | Elephant fetus display, coelacanth specimen |
Learn About Local Cultures
The Natural History Museum also has about 500 items that show the cultures of different groups in Mozambique. You can see things used in traditional dances, music, and ceremonies. There are also photos and stories that show how people live in different parts of Mozambique.
Check Out Educational Programs
Maputo’s Natural History Museum works with Eduardo Mondlane University to teach people about Mozambique’s nature and culture. They often have special programs for students and anyone who wants to learn more. If you’re really interested in nature or culture, ask if there are any special events happening when you visit.
9. Take a Wildlife Tour at Maputo Special Reserve
If you want to see the wild animals of Mozambique, you should visit the Maputo Special Reserve. It’s about 100 kilometers southeast of Maputo city. The reserve is really big – 77,400 hectares (that’s 191,000 acres)!
They started this reserve in 1932 to protect elephants living near the coast. Now, in 2024, there are about 400 elephants here. But it’s not just elephants. You can see all sorts of animals and birds. There are over 350 different kinds of birds here!
The best time to see animals is during the dry season, from April to September. That’s when animals come to water sources, so they’re easier to spot.
| Address | 100 km southeast of Maputo |
| Timings | 6 AM – 5 PM (Summer), 7 AM – 4 PM (Winter) |
| Entry Cost | 300 Meticais (~$5 USD) per vehicle |
| Notable Attractions | Game drives, beaches (Ponta do Ouro) |
Visit the Beaches
The Maputo Special Reserve isn’t just about animals on land. It also has beautiful beaches like Ponta do Ouro and Ponta Malongane. You can go swimming, snorkeling, or diving here. It’s a great way to enjoy both wildlife and the ocean in one trip.
Stay Overnight
If you want to spend more time in the Maputo Special Reserve, you can stay overnight. There are different places to stay, from simple campsites to fancy lodges. Staying overnight gives you more time to explore and see animals.
10. Visit Praça dos Trabalhadores (Workers’ Square)
Praça dos Trabalhadores, or Workers’ Square, is an important place in Maputo. It’s right in the center of the city, and it’s a great spot to see some local history. The most famous thing in the square is the Snake Lady statue.
| Address | Praça dos Trabalhadores, Maputo |
| Timings | Open 24/7 (best visited during daylight) |
| Entry Cost | Free |
| Notable Monument | Snake Lady Statue by Ruy Roque Gameiro |
See the Snake Lady Statue
The Snake Lady Statue was made by a sculptor named Ruy Roque Gameiro. This statue is special because it remembers the people from Mozambique and Portugal who died during World War I. When you look at it, you can see how it tells a story about the country’s past.
Spend Time in a Historic Square
The Workers’ Square has been important to Maputo for a long time. It’s a place where people, both locals and tourists, often gather. You might see people meeting friends, having lunch, or just relaxing.
The square is also close to other interesting places. After you’ve seen the statue, you can walk to nearby shops or restaurants. It’s a good place to start if you want to explore more of central Maputo.
Practical Tips for Visiting Maputo
When planning your trip to Maputo or any travel destination, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Let’s talk about getting around, handling money, staying safe, and where to stay.
Getting Around the City
Maputo offers several options for getting around. Taxis are a popular choice, especially for tourists. It’s best to use registered taxis, and if possible, ask your hotel to book one for you. This is particularly important at night.
A typical taxi fare from popular spots like Hotel Cardoso to the central market usually costs between 150-200 Meticais (about $4-5 USD). Remember to agree on the price before you start your journey, as many taxis don’t use meters.
If you’re feeling adventurous and speak some Portuguese, you might try the chapas. These are shared minibuses that locals use.
Chapas are cheap, but they can get crowded, and you’ll need to be careful of pickpockets. While they offer a genuine local experience, they’re not the safest option for tourists.
Walking is generally safe in central Maputo during the day. It’s a great way to explore the city up close. However, it’s best to avoid walking in the business district at night. For longer distances or after dark, stick to taxis.
Currency and Payments
When it comes to money in Maputo, you’ll be dealing with Mozambican Meticais (MZN). As of August 29, 2024, 1 Mozambican Metical equals 0.016 United States Dollars, or in reverse, 1 US Dollar is worth about 62.5 Meticais. Interestingly, you can’t take Meticais out of the country legally, so make sure to exchange any leftover cash before you head home.
If you need to change money, you can exchange US dollars or South African rand at the big banks in Maputo. Many shops and restaurants in the city take credit cards, which can be convenient. Just keep in mind that not everyone accepts Mastercard, so it’s good to have a backup option. When you’re using your card, try to keep an eye on it during the transaction, just to be on the safe side.
You’ll find plenty of ATMs around Maputo that work with international cards. For your safety, it’s best to use ATMs that are inside banks or in areas with good lighting. This way, you can avoid any potential issues when getting cash.
Safety Tips
Maputo is generally safe for tourists, but like in any big city, you need to stay alert. Try not to carry large amounts of cash with you, and always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
If you’re planning to drive, keep in mind that Mozambique follows left-hand driving. Be cautious, especially at night and in rural areas, as roads can be poorly maintained and you might encounter pedestrians or animals on the road.
Health-wise, malaria is a concern in Mozambique. Take precautions like using insect repellent, sleeping under mosquito nets, and taking malaria tablets if your doctor recommends them. This is especially important during the rainy season from November to April.
Accommodation and Staying Connected
When choosing where to stay in Maputo, consider neighborhoods like Polana Cimento or Sommerschield. These areas are known for being safe and are popular among tourists and expatriates.
As for staying connected, Wi-Fi can be unreliable in many places. A good solution is to get a local SIM card from providers like Vodacom or Mcell. Data is inexpensive, and you can easily register a SIM card at official stores with your passport.
Is Maputo Worth Visiting?
Yes, Maputo is worth visiting. It’s a lively city with rich culture, colonial architecture like the Central Train Station, and vibrant markets such as FEIMA. You can explore historical sites, enjoy local crafts, and even take day trips to places like the Maputo Special Reserve.
How Long to Spend in Maputo, Mozambique?
Spending 2 to 3 days in Maputo is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore the Central Market, visit the Railway Station, and enjoy local culture. You can also take a short trip to Inhaca Island or the Maputo Special Reserve.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Maputo?
The best time to visit Maputo is from June to October. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, with temperatures between 20°C and 26°C (68°F to 79°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
