Maputo & Surroundings

Maputo’s most iconic landmark is the historic Fort of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, the birthplace of the city’s original settlement more than a century ago. Equally impressive is the grand Central Railway Station, crowned with its striking copper dome—an architectural gem and a must-see for visitors exploring the capital.

Renamed Maputo in 1975, the city has long been celebrated for its exceptional seafood. Local restaurants proudly serve the famous spicy peri-peri prawns that have become synonymous with Mozambican cuisine. For a taste of everyday local life, the bustling Central Municipal Market is the perfect stop to pick up freshly harvested cashews from the surrounding rural areas.

When the sun sets, Maputo comes alive. Feira Popular is the city’s nightlife hub, filled with lively bars and energetic clubs where you can dance until dawn to Afro-Latino rhythms.

For those seeking adventure beyond the city, a regular ferry service runs from the harbour to Inhaca Island—home to a maritime museum, an old lighthouse, and rich coastal ecosystems. Nearby Portuguese Island offers untouched beaches and tranquil turquoise waters, perfect for a day of relaxation.

A short drive south of Maputo leads to the vast 236,000-hectare Maputo Elephant Reserve. Stretching from the southern tip of Inhaca Island to the South African border, the reserve spans diverse landscapes—from sweeping grasslands to pristine coastline. It is one of Mozambique’s most important conservation areas, sheltering an estimated 180 to 200 elephants that roam freely through its unspoiled wilderness.