What To Do In Maputo
There are some cities which are instantly familiar even if you have never visited them before and they are in far away and exotic locations. If you are Eurocentric or travelled around the Mediterranean basin or the South American coastline, you would immediately feel at home in Maputo.
The Portuguese created a home from home and a flagship city for their colonial empire. Wide sweeping boulevards and gracious civic and domestic architecture abound. Interestingly enough, they kept on developing the city right until they departed in 1975 and consequently there are many examples of the 1950s, 60s and 70s buildings. Mozambique then embarked on a destructive civil war which finally ended with a lasting peace in the mid-1990s.
The city today is a vital, bustling metropolis. The economic boom is pumping money and development into Maputo as never before. Twenty years ago, it could have been mistaken as a copy of Havana with decaying and collapsing buildings everywhere you look. No longer. The gracious buildings remain of course. Gustav Eifel of Tower fame designed the rather beautiful central railway station and a rather peculiar building, an all steel residence built for the governor. Whether Eifel ever visited this tropical city I do not know but I presume he hadn't otherwise he would not have designed a heat trap of monumental proportions. The governor never moved in but the building survives, a monument to man's ingenuity and stupidity.
The central market exists and vibrates in its original colonial structure. The spices, nuts, fish and meat of Africa are on offer mixed in with the pleasant and not so pleasant odours. Groundnuts, especially cashews are extremely cheap and I always grab a kilo or two when I have time. In Portuguese days, the hotel to be seen was the Polana. It remains to this day a grand example of colonial architecture and was visited by every head of state and VIP. It's recent revamp has made it slightly blander, in an international Hilton style, but still well worth the visit even if it's just to enjoy a drink on the terrace.
During the days you can wander the streets and savour the atmosphere. At night, the city comes alive. In the Brazilian tradition, there is an ease with which cultures have fused together and people mix. The cultural mix best expresses itself in a sort of Afro-jazz. If you enjoy this type of music, head to Chez Rangel at the railway station and lose yourself in the moment.
Maputo is a success story. Sure, there is poverty but the legacy of its architectural history and the kindness of its people ensure that this is a city which you will return to.
What to do in Maputo
Travel To Mozambique Now
Map of Lodges in and around Mozambique
Lodges And Camps In Mozambique
andBeyond Benguerra Lodge
An African island paradise awaits all who visit the small and intimate andBeyond Benguerra Lodge, located on the secluded Benguerra Island in Mozambique. With the Indian Ocean's turquoise waters lapping at your feet and pristine sandy beaches stretching for miles, it is without a doubt one of the best destinations to unwind and relax.
Azura Marlin Beach
Benguerra Island's powder-soft sands instantly captivate, showcasing Azura Marlin Beach's blend of barefoot luxury and natural beauty. Turquoise waters meet the horizon, and swaying palms frame stunning sunrises and sunsets. Every moment invites you to unwind in this serene retreat. Azura Marlin Beach offers the best of Mozambican hospitality. Thoughtful touches abound, from warm welcomes on arrival to personalized service that makes every day special. Whether exploring vibrant coral reefs or simply relaxing by the ocean, time moves gently here, allowing you to savour the extraordinary island experience to the fullest.
Vamizi Island Lodge
Vamizi Island Lodge, located on a private island within the breathtaking Quirimbas Archipelago of Northern Mozambique, offers an unparalleled level of exclusivity. Without a doubt, this is one of the best lodges to consider when your sole desire is to completely escape the trappings of the modern world.
Pestana Rovuma Hotel
Perfectly positioned in the heart of Maputo, this hotel offers unparalleled convenience, directly opposite the magnificent Cathedral. It serves as an exceptional base for exploring the city's treasures, with key attractions like the historic Railway Station, the vibrant Market, the ancient Fort, and the main business district all just a delightful 10-minute stroll away.
Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort
Accessible only by light aircraft, Medjumbe Island is a truly exclusive and private getaway. This luxurious resort is set on a remote island just 800 metres long and 350 metres wide, where you can feel the crystal-clear, warm waters lapping at your feet all day. Without a doubt, it's one of the most spectacular island escapes imaginable.
Polana Hotel
Located in the heart of Maputo, on what is without a doubt one of the city's most desirable avenues, the justly famous Polana hotel stands as a cool and gracious haven. This exceptional hotel, one of Maputo's best-loved, spectacularly recalls the elegance and splendour of a bygone colonial era.
Pestana Bazaruto Lodge
Set just a stone's throw from the invitingly warm waters of the Mozambique Channel, Bazaruto Lodge offers an island-style holiday that is, without a doubt, second to none. The experience here is exceptional, with a fantastic array of activities on offer, including snorkelling, fishing, and simply relaxing in the magnificent surroundings. It is truly one of the best island destinations for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort
Located on the magnificent Bazaruto Island, Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort and Spa presents truly luxurious accommodation and absolutely world-class facilities. Without a doubt, it offers some of the best scuba diving in the world, all set within a backdrop of spectacular, unspoilt natural beauty.