Transport and driving in Mozambique

Getting around in Mozambique can be challenging, as public transport options are limited and road conditions tend to be poor. If you can afford it, purchasing a car makes getting around more convenient and is generally safer than using public transport. Still, on the road, you’ll need to remain cautious of other drivers and obstructions like potholes.

In the capital, Maputo, the public transport system is slightly better than elsewhere in the country, with trains linking to neighbouring South Africa, and ferries connecting the city to Inhaca Island and Catembe.

Domestic air travel between Mozambique's biggest airport, Maputo International, and hubs like Nampula, Beira, and Tete is possible.

Public transport in Mozambique

Trains

Trains travel to and from Maputo and South Africa, but they are known to be overcrowded. Many lack sleeping facilities, which makes overnight journeys difficult.

Buses

Buses in Mozambique cater to long-distance travel needs. It's not uncommon for coaches to be full, and local minibuses are usually used to take the overflow of passengers. Like trains, buses can be used to travel to neighbouring countries, such as Zimbabwe and South Africa. Buses can also be used for intercity travel within Mozambique.

Chapas

Chapas are local minibuses that are used for both short- and long-distance journeys. For the latter, luggage is often piled on the roof, with many chapas drivers ignoring capacity limits. As they tend to be overloaded, they can be dangerous to travel in, but are frequently cheaper than other forms of transport.

Txopela

Tuk-tuks, locally referred to as Txopela, are a low-cost form of transport primarily found in Maputo. Although their primary function is to get passengers from one place to another cheaply, some operators have built experience tours around these three-wheeled vehicles.

Ferry

There are daily ferries between Inhaca Island and Maputo, as well as Catembe and Maputo. The ferry travels more frequently on weekends, but make sure you arrive early to secure a spot.

Taxis in Mozambique

Ride-hailing services are the safest way to catch a taxi in Mozambique. Informal and metered taxis can be found throughout the country, but neither is reliable and may overcharge. Apps like InDrive and Yango are preferred, though it’s worth noting that they only operate in major cities like Maputo, Matola, and Beira.

Useful links

• Yango
• InDrive

Driving in Mozambique

Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road in Mozambique and are essential for getting around safely and independently. Many roads are unpaved and in bad condition, and for this reason, four-wheel drives and SUVs are particularly popular choices.

If stopped by a traffic police officer and asked to pay a spot fine, insist on an official receipt, as some expats have reported instances of bribery and extortion.

Driver's licences

Expats from Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries or International Driving Permit (IDP) holders can drive in Mozambique for up to 90 days.

For longer stays, you will need a Mozambican driver’s licence. This can be obtained by either passing the local driver’s exam or converting your existing licence into a Mozambican licence via the Instituto National de Transportes Rodoviarios (INATRO). Both options require you to complete a theoretical test in Portuguese, although residents of countries with which Mozambique has a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) may be exempt from this.

Useful links

• INATRO

Domestic flights in Mozambique

LAM Mozambique Airlines, the national airline, is largely responsible for operating air travel in Mozambique. Maputo International Airport and Nampula International Airport are the two main airports in Mozambique. Domestic flights to cities such as Beira, Tete, and Pemba are also available. These flights offer a quick and convenient option for travel between Mozambique’s major hubs.

The South African carrier Airlink also offers domestic flights in Mozambique, although itineraries and schedules are subject to change.

It is important to keep in mind that Mozambique's domestic aviation infrastructure is less developed than that of many other nations, and there may be delays or cancellations.

Useful links

• LAM Mozambique Airlines
• Airlink