Risk level

Safety and security

Cabo Delgado province

Extremists have been active in northern districts of Cabo Delgado since late 2017. Militants have staged attacks against major urban areas and have targeted both security forces and civilians. They have burned villages, raided police stations and conducted roadside ambushes and attacks with machetes and firearms against residents. This has resulted in hundreds of casualties and more than 700 000 displaced persons. Ongoing military operations to fight insurgency in the north of the province has forced militants to spread to districts further south. The provincial capital of Pemba could become a target for these groups.

Expect a heightened security presence in Cabo Delgado, especially in the northern and central districts. Violent clashes between armed groups and security forces occur frequently.

Threats of kidnappings and criminal activity, such as contraband smuggling and illegal mining, also contribute to the deteriorating security situation in the whole province, including in the provincial capital, Pemba.

Journalists and researchers might need authorization from local authorities to travel to remote parts of Mozambique, particularly to Cabo Delgado Province.

Our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in Cabo Delgado Province is extremely limited. 

Sofala and Manica provinces

The situation remains unstable and unpredictable in the provinces of Sofala and Manica despite the peace agreement signed between local political parties in August 2019.

Dissident groups have attacked vehicles, trucks, and buses, travelling on the EN1 road near Gorongosa, in Sofala province, and along the EN6 road between Chimoio and Tica. These attacks have left several passengers dead.

Crime

Crime rates have increased in recent years.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, muggings and purse snatching, is common throughout the country. Pedestrians and joggers are frequent targets, even during daylight hours. Thieves also target vehicles parked outside shopping centres, resorts and transportation hubs.

In Maputo, incidents of attacks and muggings have increased along Avenida da Marginal area, along the coast. Criminals take advantage of thick bushes to hide and escape, especially on the Avenida Friedrich Engels and Rua Caracol.

Crime increases significantly during the Christmas holiday season.

• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas
• Avoid walking at night, even in tourist areas
• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Don’t leave valuables in cars
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as armed robbery, carjacking and home burglary, occurs frequently. It’s particularly prevalent on the outskirts of large cities such as Maputo, Beira, Nampula and Nacala.

Keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely risk free.

• Exercise a high degree of caution at all times
• Expect a heighten security presence in these cities
• Avoid travelling alone, especially at night
• Stay in reputable accommodations with good security
• If threatened by robbers, don’t resist

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism, particularly in Cabo Delgado province where an Islamist militant insurgency has steadily increased the scope of its operations and number of attacks since 2019. They are especially active in the central and northern districts of Mocimboa de Praia, Macomia, Muidumbe and Palma.  

Further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• vehicle convoys travelling between towns
• pedestrians and civilian residences in rural villages
• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Kidnapping

There is a threat of kidnapping, especially in larger cities such as Maputo and Beira. Since late 2019, kidnaps have occurred in the following affluent areas of Maputo:

• Coop
• Sommerschield
• Polana Canico
• Matola

A significant kidnapping threat has also emerged in Cabo Delgado province in the recent years.

Individuals perceived as wealthy, including foreigners, tend to be preferred targets. Some individuals have given in to extortion to avoid the reoccurrence of kidnapping in their families. Kidnappers frequently operate during the day.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Change your travel patterns regularly
• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Don’t travel alone at night
• If threatened by kidnappers, do not resist

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Incidents of card cloning have increased lately. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others when making payments at a point of sale
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

More about overseas fraud

Police forces

Police forces are understaffed, poorly trained, and poorly equipped, which affects their ability to be effective. Response time is slow, especially outside urban areas.

There are reports of widespread corruption among the police ranks. Police officers sometimes try to extort drivers and pedestrians by threatening detention or confiscating identity documents.

If police threaten you with a fine:

• remain calm, courteous but firm
• show original documents but keep them in your possession
• try to cooperate by following the instructions of police to avoid escalation
• ask for a clear explanation of the offence and a written fine that can be paid at a police station
• don’t pay a bribe to anyone

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Safe-travel guide for women

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. They are generally good in urban areas but roads outside of Maputo are poorly lit and lack maintenance and signage. Fuel stations are rare and police assistance is unreliable when leaving the capital.

The rainy season poses further hazard. From December to April, driving conditions may be hazardous. Flooding and sometimes near-zero visibility pose a threat. Outside cities and off major highways, you may need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to travel.

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds. Drinking and driving is also prevalent at any time of the day or night. Accidents causing fatalities are common. They often involve pedestrians.

Traffic law enforcement consists of stationary traffic police officers on foot. They randomly stop vehicles for inspections or identification. If you don’t carry proper documentation, the police may attempt to bribe you.

Checkpoints are also common. Only national police officers have the authority to establish checkpoints. They may also solicit bribes.

After a vehicular accident, a large crowd may gather at the scene of the incident and become hostile. If this happens, get away from the scene and drive to the nearest police station.

Carjacking is frequent in Maputo as well as on roads to South Africa, Eswatini and Zimbabwe.

On the road in Mozambique:

• keep doors locked and windows closed at all times
• don’t expect drivers to look out for pedestrians
• avoid travelling after dark, especially outside of major urban areas
• travel in convoys when possible
• carry a cellphone with you
• maintain a full tank of gas
• keep supply of water and non-perishable snacks
• expect roadblocks and checkpoints
• obey police when asked to stop
• don’t pay a bribe to anyone

Public transportation

Public transportation is limited.

Buses

Privately owned minibuses, known as chapas, are not safe. They are often overcrowded and poorly maintained. They are frequently involved in fatal accidents.

Private intercity buses are available, especially to South African destinations. They are often better maintained and safer.

Taxis

Taxis provide safe options.

If you use a taxi in Mozambique:

• avoid hailing it on the street
• only use registered taxis from reputable providers, preferably arranged through your hotel
• avoid yellow and green taxis, in which there are reports of thefts
• ensure that there is no other passenger in the car

Train

Domestic rail service is overcrowded and slow.

Shortages

Fuel shortages occur occasionally.

• Never let your tank go lower than half-full
• Keep fuel supplies on hand
• Carefully plan all road travel

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters of the Indian Ocean. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Mozambican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Mozambique.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Work visa: required
Student visa: required
Residency visa  required
Transit visa: required

Tourist visa

You can get a tourist visa on arrival at every international airport and at most international ports and land borders. You must pay visa fees in cash, in local money or U.S. dollars. The visa validity period ranges from 30 days to 6 months. No single stay may exceed 30 consecutive days.

All other types of visas

For all other types of visas, you must apply and have the visa placed in your passport before travelling to Mozambique.

You will receive a heavy fine for every day you overstay your visa or if you have the wrong type of visa for your stay.

Make sure customs officials properly inspect and stamp your passport and visa upon entry to avoid possible fines when leaving the country.

Entry visa - Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique in the United States

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and a proof of accommodation. 

Health screening

Due to the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease in other African countries, upon arrival, you will need to:

• fill out a health questionnaire at the airport
• provide the address where you will reside during your stay in Mozambique
• provide a telephone number to contact you

Children and travel

If you are transiting by road through South Africa with children under the age of 18, you may be subject to special entry requirements.

• Entry requirements for South Africa
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.

In some areas in East Africa, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in East Africa. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Insects and Illness

In some areas in East Africa, certain insects carry and spread diseases like African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, onchocerciasis (river blindness), Rift Valley fever, West Nile virus and yellow fever.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in East Africa, like avian influenza, Ebola, and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is inadequate. You will likely require medical evacuation to South Africa in case of serious illness or injury.

Basic medical facilities are available.  Most physicians and medical providers don’t speak English or French. They expect immediate cash payment.

Medications are not always available.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Alcohol, drugs and travel
• Cannabis and international travel

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• military sites
• government buildings
• bridges, harbours and airports

Seek permission before taking photos of official buildings and individuals. There are certain areas in Maputo where you are not allowed to walk, such as roads surrounding presidential palaces and military installations.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mozambique.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mozambique, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Mozambique.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mozambique by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mozambique to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Identification

You must carry photo identification.

Police frequently ask visitors to show ID and travel documents.

• Provide a copy of your documents
• If requested, show the originals but retain them

Driving

Traffic drives on the left.

You must have third-party insurance, which you can obtain at any port of entry.

All cars must be equipped with:

• two reflective triangles
• a reflective vest that you must wear when repairing, loading or unloading a vehicle

You must carry an international driving permit.

More about the International Driving Permit

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

Money

The currency in Mozambique is the metical (MZN). The import or export of local currency is illegal.

When entering Mozambique, you must declare the amount of foreign currency in your possession. This includes:

• bank notes
• cheques
• traveller’s cheques

The U.S. dollar and South African rand are the easiest currencies to exchange in banks or exchange bureaus. Only use authorized currency exchange bureaus.

Credit cards are not widely accepted, except in Maputo. Most businesses accept payment in meticals, U.S. dollars or South African rand.

Hotels often only accept foreign currency.

Natural disasters and climate

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from November to April. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges, damaged.

During this season, cyclones also occur along the coast. If you decide to travel to Mozambique during this time:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons 
• Large-scale emergencies abroad