Mozambique

Introduction to Mozambique

The Republic of Mozambique, or Mozambique, is a country in Southern Africa, bordering South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Comoros lie offshore to the northeast and Madagascar lies across the Mozambique Channel. It is a member of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries and the Commonwealth of Nations.

The country is located on Eastern Africa, on the continent's largest coastal plain (half the territory is below 230 m above sea level). The mountain range known as Inyanga is located to the west, where its peak reaches 2500 m. The major elevations are near the borders with Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Mozambique

Pickpockets and bag snatchers have increased their activity levels in Maputo and Beira. Armed robberies and break-ins are also on the rise. Foreigners have been targeted. Pedestrians and joggers have been mugged during the day. Pay particular attention to your surroundings, especially after dark. Do not show signs of affluence, and do not visit beaches alone.

Visitors should carry identity documents at all times. Urban streets are patrolled by police who frequently carry automatic weapons and require visitors to produce identity and travel documents. Checkpoints are frequent outside Maputo. There are certain areas in the city of Maputo where pedestrian traffic is not tolerated, most notably in front of the presidential palaces.

Demonstrations can occur and can turn violent. Exercise caution, monitor local news reports, and avoid large crowds and gatherings.