Maputo, Mozambique: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Maputo, Mozambique? If you're planning to go to Maputo, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Maputo, Mozambique

Based on the climate and weather in Maputo, Mozambique, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Maputo, Mozambique

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Maputo, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Maputo, Mozambique by month

January

If you vacation in Maputo during January, you will probably find that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Be sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you visit Maputo during February, you will probably see that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Make sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Maputo is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Check that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you go to Maputo in April, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you are traveling to Maputo in May, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Take care to choose the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you vacation in Maputo during June, you may notice that it is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Ensure that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Maputo during July, you are likely to see that it is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Maputo is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you vacation in Maputo during September, you may see that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Check that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you are traveling to Maputo in October, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Be careful to choose the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you go to Maputo in November, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Take care to find the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you are traveling to Maputo in December, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Mozambique has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Maputo may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, F and M. Be sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Tunduru Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Maputo, Mozambique

Maputo is the capital and largest city of Mozambique, and a popular destination for tourists looking for a mix of sun, sea, and culture. From historical sites to natural wonders, Maputo has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore some of the top tourist attractions in Maputo.

1. Maputo Central Market

One of the must-visit places in Maputo is the Central Market, known as the Mercado Municipal. This colorful market is the place where locals come to shop for fresh produce, spices, and textiles. Visitors can find anything from souvenirs and handcrafted items to seafood and traditional clothing.

2. Maputo Fortress

The Maputo Fortress, also known as the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, is a historical landmark situated at the mouth of Maputo Bay. It was built in the 18th century to protect the Portuguese settlement from Dutch and British attacks. Today, the fortress serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the history of Mozambique.

3. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Located in the heart of Maputo, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is a stunning piece of architecture that dates back to the early 20th century. It was designed by Marcial Simões de Freitas, a Portuguese architect, and is considered one of the most significant religious buildings in Mozambique.

4. Maputo Special Reserve

For nature lovers, the Maputo Special Reserve is a paradise waiting to be explored. Located just south of the city, this reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, antelopes, and more. Visitors can take guided tours, go bird-watching, or simply enjoy the serene natural scenery.

5. Maputo Railway Station

The Maputo Railway Station is another historic landmark, built in the early 20th century during Portuguese colonial rule. It's considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in Africa and features a stunning neoclassical design. Today, it serves as a transportation hub and an iconic tourist attraction.

In conclusion, Maputo has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for travelers looking for an authentic African experience. From exploring the bustling markets to exploring the wildlife reserves, there's plenty to see and do in this vibrant city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Ashton-under-Lyne, England, United Kingdom, South Iceland, Iceland, Tatvan, Turkey, Kenmare, Ireland, Corsica, France, Salcete, India, Tabriz, Iran, Puerto del Carmen, Spain, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska, United States of America, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, United States of America, and Ibaraki, Japan.