Mozambicans are putting their shattered past behind them and rebuilding their country at a remarkable pace, presenting a country of magic and beauty just waiting to be explored, still slightly off the mainstream tourist track. There's plenty to see, including stunning remote beaches and tropical islands, a World Heritage site, charming colonial architecture, a vibrant fusion of food and colourful local cultures.

Mozambique is a huge country with vast potential for travellers interested in culture, wildlife and the coast. It is an increasingly popular choice for people wanting a luxury beach holiday in an unusual destination. While tourism is developing fast, there are several conservation & community projects working well with beach resorts and wildlife organisations. Happily, it seems to be becoming a focus for ecotourism and fair trade principles.

Mozambique's distinct local style consists of a vibrant blend of African, Arab and Portuguese influences and provides a refreshing contrast to the other countries in southern Africa. Whilst it is not renowned for its cuisine, deliciously fresh Mozambican seafood with Portuguese, Indian and Arabic influences is simply quite wonderful.

Strolling through the old towns of Ilha da Mocambique, Angoche, Ibo and Inhambane and parts of Maputo is a special experience. The eclectic architecture, punctuated with war-damaged and deserted buildings and quaint cafes under shady trees, adds a different experience to a normal beach holiday.

Mozambique was a colony for almost five centuries. Various invaders from Europe and the Indian Ocean attacked the coastal trading region (mainly seeking gold, ivory and slaves) but it was the Portuguese who left the biggest impression. Independence was achieved in 1975, and the wide spread exodus of white settlers that followed this, severe droughts, heavy flooding and a prolonged civil war left the country in tatters and one of the poorest in the world. Around 1990, the government changed its political ideals, instituted a new constitution and finally, a UN brokered peace deal with the Rebels was negotiated.

In the last five years, Mozambique has achieved considerable economic recovery and significantly improved its infrastructure. Main roads are better maintained and air travel is more readily available. A short hop by plane from the main inland wildlife areas of southern Africa, Mozambique’s beaches offer a perfect retreat in your African holiday.

But get there before everyone else hears about it!!

Reading:
To find out more about Mozambique or to bag some books, dvd's or music for your trip, please take a look at the Mud Hut's Reading List!