The Machangulo Peninsula lies in the southernmost part of Mozambique, adjacent to the Portuguese and Inhaca Islands in Maputo Bay.
This remote and pristine holiday destination boasts one of the world’s last untouched stretches of beach, a spectacular all-year-round tropical climate, and warm Indian Ocean waters.
Experience free-roaming African wildlife in Maputo National Park, shimmering lakes, lush dune forests, endless ocean views, and sunsets that take your breath away.
Our exclusive and luxury villa accommodation in the Machangulo Nature Reserve, Santa Maria, and Vilanculos encapsulates the secluded surroundings while you relax in pure holiday bliss.
Machangulo is a stunning safe haven, putting travel in Mozambique on the prime holiday destination map.
The warm and friendly locals take pride in their heritage, land, and all their country has to offer.
In our article, we cover the necessary Mozambique travel advice and safety tips for getting to us, including road laws, insurance requirements, and valuable border crossing information.
- Jump to:
- Law enforcement safety
- Travelling by car
- Crossing the border
- Tourist visa
- Arriving in Maputo
- Checklist summary
Mozambique Travel Advice and Safety
The local law enforcement officers have received a bad reputation for their hostile attitude towards tourists and for soliciting bribes over many years.
However, do not feel intimidated if you are not in the wrong. Remaining courteous but firm shows that you are not a soft target for a bride.
We recommend you familiarize yourself with Mozambique’s laws and rules of the roads and respect them as you would in any other country you visit.
Travelling to Mozambique by Car
Travelling by car from South Africa to Maputo is a pleasant journey on tarred roads, and driving is on the left-hand side. It is possible to rent a vehicle in South Africa.
Do you need a 4×4 in Mozambique?
We always recommend you rent a 4×4 vehicle when entering Mozambique.
Certainly, if you drive to Machangulo through the Maputo National Park or have extended holiday plans to explore other parts of Mozambique, a 4×4 is essential!
However, if you are travelling via boat or private plane from Maputo to Machangulo, a 4×4 is unnecessary should you drive back to South Africa on the tarred roads after you visit us.
Mozambique Border Safety Advice
What is needed to cross the border from South Africa to Mozambique?
We recommend you plan your trip so you cross the border in the morning. Driving into Mozambique at dusk or after sunset is not advised.
There is no ATM at the border. However, you can exchange money at the petrol stations at Komatipoort.
We advise you to check the currency exchange rate beforehand and ensure the amount handed over to you is correct.
If you choose to rent a car in South Africa or have a registered South African vehicle, taking out third party insurance with a reputable company is compulsory. The cost is approximately USD16 per vehicle for 30 days.
In addition, the Temporary Import Papers (TIP) required for a registered vehicle from South Africa into Mozambique must be purchased at the border for about USD10.
Important: ensure the TIP has been stamped by certified officials with the correct date.
Watch for so-called “runners” and “fake officials” offering to assist you with car papers. The documentation they produce is fraudulent, and the stamps are fake.
Again, you do not need to feel intimidated. We advise you to ignore these “runners” and follow the easy legitimate process.
Tourist Visa for Mozambique
Most Southern African Development Community (SADAC) passport holders and the following countries do not require a visa:
Citizens of the countries Canada, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, Israel, USA, Russia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Great Britain, Korea, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, Finland, Indonesia, Ireland, Singapore, Ghana, Senegal, Germany, France, Italy, China, Portugal, and Ukraine.
Travel to Mozambique is permitted for the citizens mentioned above for a maximum of 30 days without prior registration.
Upon entry, the following documentation is required:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- A round-trip ticket (if travelling by air)
- Proof of accommodation (this can be arranged via hello@machangulovillas.com or via our easy booking facility!)
Visa Cost: 650 meticais (approximately USD9)
Visa requirements for all other nationalities:
All other nationalities must apply for a visa online via: https://evisa.gov.mz/ and it takes approximately 7 working days.
We recommend you apply at least 10 days before your departure.
Visa cost: minimum USD50
Important: When getting your visa and passport stamped, always check the date on the stamp is correct.
All done, and you are good to go! Settle into the Mozambique holiday vibes, relax, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
When a beautiful view grabs your attention, stop and take a pic or two for memory keepsakes.
Arriving in Maputo
We advise leaving your car in a secured car park if you continue your journey by boat or private plane from Maputo.
If you continue driving to Machangulo, consider the opening and closing times of Maputo National Park.
We will send you all the relevant information and a route description from Maputo to your preferred villa.
Final Mozambique Useful Tips
- Ensure you have all the necessary visa requirement documentation
- Plan your trip for arrival at the border in the morning
- Buy a local SIM
- Please note: The Machangulo Nature Reserve only has access to the Vodacom network
- A 4×4 vehicle is essential if you plan to drive all the way to Machangulo
- A 4×4 is not essential if you drive from South Africa to Maputo and continue your journey to us via boat or private plane
- There is no ATM at the border. When filling up your with petrol at Komatipoort, exchange money at the same time (remember to check the amount handed over to you is correct)
- Comply with requirements, such as compulsory 3rd party road insurance for rental and registered vehicles and Temporary Import Papers (TIP) for registered vehicles from South Africa
- Only allow officials to stamp the TIP vehicle papers and ensure the date is correct
- Ensure the date stamped in your passport is correct
- Obey the speed limits, and traffic signals and always wear a seat belt
- Park your vehicle in a secure parking facility in Maputo
- Never drive on the beach
- Purchase the relevant licences required if you plan to fish or launch a boat
- Respect law enforcement officials. However, do not feel intimidated if you are not in the wrong. Remaining courteous but firm shows that you are not a soft target for a bribe
There you have it!
Mozambique tourism is on the rise, and we look forward to sharing the wonders of magical Africa with you!
The dedicated staff at Machangulo Villas will answer any further queries. Get in touch!
For beneficial tips on pre-trip planning and packing for your exciting holiday adventure, have a look here.
“If you visit two continents in your lifetime, visit Africa – TWICE”
R. Elliot
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