Mozambique - attractions - Countries Guide

Bazaruto Island
The largest island in the archipelago, Bazaruto Island is about 23 miles (37km) long and four miles (7km) wide, surrounded by magnificent stretches of white sand. Enormous sand dunes comprise the eastern strip, while the interior contains large freshwater lakes frequented by a wide variety of water birds such as flamingos and is inhabited by crocodiles. On the northern tip of the island is a lighthouse built by the Portuguese over 100 years ago, which signals the large number of ships travelling the historical Mozambique Channel, and affords spectacular views. World famous for its large game fishing, Bazaruto is also well known as a popular diving destination, with a rich variety of marine life surrounding the island. Tourist facilities, upmarket lodges and exclusive resorts are geared towards luxury tourism.
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Transport: Accessible by boat or plane from Vilanculos
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Benguerra Island
Benguerra is the second largest island, less than half a mile (1km) south of Bazaruto and like its neighbour has stunning beaches, large sand dunes and freshwater lakes. Its forest and wetland areas attract a huge variety of birds and animals, while its surrounding reefs offer some of the best diving and snorkelling in the archipelago. Two-Mile Reef to the east of Benguerra, and its protected pool known as the Aquarium, is an underwater paradise with beautiful corals and a wealth of tropical fish, popular with both divers and snorkellers. On the surrounding sandbanks to the north of the island is where the famous Pansy shells can be found. Most visitors come to Benguerra for the big game fishing though, as its deep waters teem with the likes of marlin and barracuda, and the area is world renowned as a fishing destination. Tourist facilities, upmarket lodges and exclusive resorts are geared towards luxury tourism.
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Transport: Accessible by boat or plane from Vilanculos
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Central Railway Station
Designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1910, the railway station is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world, with marble pillars, wrought iron work and a large central dome. The grand building is one of Maputo's most impressive structures, and is well worth a visit, even if not arriving or departing by train.
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Central Market
The Central Market spills out of the shabby yet beautiful building in which it is housed, and is a hub of activity selling all kinds of goods, from handicrafts, basketware and carvings, to fruit and vegetables, a variety of seafood and many household items needed for everyday use. The market is a haven for pickpockets and thieves, though, and visitors should ensure that all valuables are concealed from view.
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Polana Hotel
The grand dame of Maputo, Hotel Polana is one of the city's most desirable addresses, overlooking the bay. The historic hotel is a majestic building, evoking the style and sophistication of colonial times, with its gardens, Victorian lift and five-star luxury. A sunset drink in one of its cocktail bars is a must for passing visitors not tempted to splash out on an extravagant stay.
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Website: www.polana-hotel.com
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Museum of the Revolution
The museum relates the fascinating history of the revolution in Mozambique, detailing the violent struggle against Portuguese colonialism. Mozambique gained independence in 1975, and various maps, photographs and displays of weapons chronicle the fight. All captions and text are in Portuguese.
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Opening times: Monday to Friday (except Wednesday) 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm; Saturday 2pm to 6pm; Sunday 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm

Pemba Bay Dhow
Pemba Bay is a picturesque, natural harbour and has an active port. The land has a very high concentration of Baobab trees, which create a brilliant contrast with the vivid turquoise sea; Pemba Bay dhow trips provide an excellent opportunity to view this site. Visitors can take a dhow for the day to explore the third-largest natural bay in the world. Go snorkelling, or relax and enjoy the breeze and the ocean calm.
Telephone: +27 (011) 791 0519
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Cities & Regions: Bazaruto Archipelago | Maputo | Beira | Pemba