When Is the Best Time to Visit Mozambique?
Published on: August 15th, 2017
Last updated: July 27th, 2023
There are two main seasons in Mozambique - the wet season from October to March and the dry season from April to September. The dry season is the best time to visit Mozambique if you want your stay to be as comfortable as possible.
Thanks to its tropical climate, Mozambique's economy is based largely on agriculture. The tourism industry is also growing, driven by fascinating cultural experiences and stunning natural surroundings. Soak up the sun on expansive beaches, duck beneath waves or go adventuring through the bush in search of endangered species.
Climate and Seasons in Mozambique
Conditions vary depending on which part of the country you’re in. The upper Zambezi Valley and the north-eastern coast generally experience the most humidity, while the highlands experience the most rain. It’s important to note that cyclone season falls in January and February, bringing with it torrential downpours.
So, if you’re planning on spending time on the sandy beaches of the Bazaruto Archipelago, it’s best to avoid the beginning of the year. The rains start to clear up around April and May, and the humidity begins to let up. Expect clear skies and sunny days as June progresses, with the temperatures steadily climbing towards September.
The Best Time to...
Enjoy the Wildlife
With numerous nature reserves, national parks, game reserves and conservation areas, Mozambique is a nature lover’s paradise. If you plan on heading out into the bush to do a spot of game viewing, then your best time to visit is in the drier months of August and September. At that time of year, the vegetation is drier and less dense, making for better game viewing especially around waterholes.
There are over 200 mammal species in Mozambique, some of which are endangered. Look out for the Selous’ zebra and bush squirrels. There’s also plenty to keep bird enthusiasts busy, with over 700 species in the country. Your best time for bird spotting is between November and February. Keep your eyes peeled for a rare types of cuckoo, and around 20 threatened species as well.
Hit the Beach
Not only does Mozambique have wonderful beaches along the coast ideal for sun-worshippers, but there are also plenty of activities to keep you busy while at the ocean. The best time to head for the coast is between the drier months of May to October when the temperatures hover around a pleasant 25°C. Be wary of visiting the northern stretch of the coast in summer, between November and April, because temperatures and humidity soar. Higher humidity also means a higher risk of malaria.
If you find yourself in Mozambique between July and October, look out for pods of humpback whales as they journey north with their calves.
Go Diving and Fishing
There’s a whole world to be discovered beneath the water’s surface, and Mozambique is a great diving destination throughout the year. For the absolute best conditions though, try to plan your trip for the winter months between May and September. Weaker currents and less wind make for better visibility. There are over 1200 species of fish to be found in and around the reefs.
The best season for fishing depends on the species you’re aiming for. Tuna and king fish can be found year-round, while October to January is the optimal time to catch marlin.
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