Chapas are authentic but require patience and luggage care. Not recommended for night travel. Chapas (minibuses): cheap, frequent between cities; limited comfort. Machibombo (coaches): long routes Maputo–Beira, Maputo–Nampula. Maputo taxis: negotiate or use apps; numbered urban chapas. Private transfers: tour operators and hotels arrange popular routes

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Transport Guide for Mozambique

Name: Mozambique
Address: MZ

Flights, roads, chapas, and boats — how to get around safely and efficiently.

Updated: May 2026 (with official references)

International and domestic flights

Main airports: Maputo (MPM), Beira (BEW), Nampula (APL), Pemba (POL), Vilankulo (VNX), Inhambane (INH). International flights connect Lisbon, Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and Dubai.

Domestic flights operated by LAM and regional carriers — limited schedules, book ahead. Alternative: charter flights to lodges and islands.

Roads and car rental

EN1 (national highway): Maputo–Xai-Xai–Inhambane–Beira — main axis, partially paved
4x4 recommended for Gorongosa, Ponta do Ouro, and secondary roads
Rental in Maputo: 3,000–6,000 MZN/day; international license required
Avoid night driving — animals, potholes, and unlit vehicles
Fuel stations sparse inland — plan refueling

Public transport

Chapas are authentic but require patience and luggage care. Not recommended for night travel.

Chapas (minibuses): cheap, frequent between cities; limited comfort
Machibombo (coaches): long routes Maputo–Beira, Maputo–Nampula
Maputo taxis: negotiate or use apps; numbered urban chapas
Private transfers: tour operators and hotels arrange popular routes

Maritime transport

Maputo–Inhaca boats: depart Cais do Pescadores; tide-dependent schedules
Dhows and speedboats Vilankulo–Bazaruto: local operators and lodges
Quirimbas: boats and charter flights from Pemba
Use life jackets and licensed operators

Planning and safety

See visitmozambique.gov.mz for safe travel guidance. Keep printed eVisa/eTA, yellow fever vaccination if required, and adequate travel insurance.

Practical tips

Combine domestic flights for long legs (Maputo–Pemba) — save days on the road
Book transfers through accommodation — often more reliable
Bring snacks and water for long road trips
Travel insurance covering road accidents
Confirm schedules on the day — delays and changes are common

Need help with logistics?

Get transport recommendations for your itinerary.