The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all but essential travel to the districts of Nangade, Quissanga, Ibo, Macomia, Mocimboa da Praia, Palma and Meluco in Cabo Delgado province, due to attacks by groups with links to Islamic extremism. This includes the islands off the coast.
Since August 2019, there have been a number of armed attacks on vehicles on roads in Sofala province. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office advise against all but essential travel on the EN1 between Inchope and the town of Gorongoza and the EN6 between Tica and Inchope. See Road travel
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Mozambique. There has an been an increasing intensity of attacks in Cabo Delgado since January 2019, with attacks reported in the districts of Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, Macomia, Nangade, Quissanga, Muidumbe, Meluco and Ibo. Militants have used explosives, machetes and firearms to conduct lethal attacks, as well as burning vehicles and homes. There are reports of an increased security presence in the province, including road blocks, and there are regular clashes between militants, armed vigilante groups and Mozambican security forces.
Presidential, legislative and provincial elections took place in Mozambique on 15 October 2019. In the past, the electoral period has resulted in civil unrest and intermittent outbreaks of violence. You should continue to exercise caution whilst travelling around the country and avoid travelling to unfamiliar places after elections. Avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and political rallies, as there is a risk they could turn violent.
There have been recent demonstrations directed at commercial trucks from South Africa in Matola, south of Maputo. If you’re travelling in the area, you should exercise caution, avoid all demonstrations and follow instructions of local authorities.
Mozambique was affected by two major tropical cyclones during the 2018-19 rainy season, which had a major impact on the people and infrastructure of Sofala, Manica, Nampula, Tete, Zambezia and Cabo Delgago provinces. Critical infrastructure has been restored and main roads are open. However, not all bridges have been repaired and travel in the rainy season may therefore be restricted. If you’re travelling to affected areas, you should plan ahead, check routes before travelling and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Coastal areas have a risk of tropical cyclones during the rainy season (November to April). Widespread flooding can also occur around river basins, especially the Zambezi. Monitor local reports, check your routes before travelling and follow the advice of local authorities. You can monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation.
Most visits to Mozambique are trouble-free, but violent crime does occur and there have been cases of criminal kidnappings. You should take extra care.
Traffic accidents are common due to the condition of the roads, poor driving and vehicle standards. Always drive carefully and be aware of pedestrians using the roads. If you’re travelling by road make sure you have relevant documents with you at all times and monitor local media for traffic updates.
Piracy remains a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean.
