Mozambique

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.  

• Dial 119 for police emergencies
• Dial 112 for domestic violence cases 
• Police contacts, hotlines, and public ambulances are generally non-operational. The best action to take in an emergency is to find the nearest police station or look for police patrols.
• Private taxis are more reliable than ambulance services. You may call the U.S. embassy for help reaching police, ambulance, and domestic violence services.  
• Dial +258-84-095-8000 or the U.S. Embassy in Mozambique.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)
• Terrorists have attacked communities throughout Cabo Delgado Province and northern areas of the Nampula province.
• Terrorists have also attacked hunting lodges inside the Niassa Special Reserve.
• Terrorist attacks have mostly involved shootings and stabbings. Terrorists have also used roadside bombs.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Road travel outside the city after dark is dangerous. U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling outside the major cities after dark by car and are encouraged not to travel outside the city alone.

• Stay alert when you travel in Mozambique and if you travel to or from South Africa. Both countries have high crime rates.
• Street crimes, including mugging, purse-snatching, and pickpocketing are common in Maputo and in secondary cities.
• Carjackings are rare but still occur.
• Pedestrians have been mugged at all hours of the day. Avoid remote areas and walking at night, even in well-known tourist areas.
• In Maputo, avoid walking along the Marginal south of the Southern Sun Hotel and Avenida Friedrich Engels and Rua Caracol.
• Avoid walking along roads bordered by wooded areas, as criminals may hide there.

If passing through Johannesburg International Airport:

• Secure your bags. Use an airport plastic wrapping service.
• Avoid placing currency and high value items in checked luggage when transiting.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams are common in Mozambique. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers may pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Mozambique: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault or demand payment of false premises.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Agree in advance and in writing that no money will be exchanged.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Crimes in Mozambique should be reported to the Mozambique Republic Police (PRM). It is responsible for public order and safety.

• For specialized investigations, including organized crime and trafficking, the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) is the competent authority. 
• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• Most police contacts and hotlines are non-operational.
• The best action to take as a victim of crime is to find the nearest police station or look for police patrols around the area. 
• You can call the U.S. embassy for assistance in contacting police near you. 
• Dial +258-84-095-8000 for the U.S. Embassy in Mozambique.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 
• The U.S. embassy can assist in contacting police, medical providers, and domestic violence resources.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones can only be used for commercial purposes with a government permit. Personal drone use is illegal.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• Criminal penalties range from fines and community service to imprisonment, and in rare cases, capital punishment. 
• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Always carry your passport with you. Authorities can take you for questioning if you cannot present your passport.
• Photography of some government buildings may be illegal. Ask before taking pictures.
• It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Mozambique. You may face fines and be arrested and detained for long periods of time.
• Legal age of criminal responsibility is 14 years old. Children under 14 cannot be prosecuted. Instead, they are subject to social and educational measures.
• Those aged 14 through 16 may be prosecuted but are treated under special juvenile procedures.
• Driving under the influence can land you immediately in jail.
• Your U.S. passport will not help avoid arrest or prosecution.
• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Cannabis (marijuana) and CBD products are illegal in Mozambique. There is  no distinction made between recreational and medical use. Border guards do not tolerate any cannabis entering Mozambique.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Mozambique seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Detention Conditions

• Food conditions in Mozambique’s prisons are poor.   
• There are many prisons in Mozambique where prisoners receive only 1 meal per day.  
• In many cases, families provide supplementary food to prisoners. The U.S. embassy can help with this process.    
• Family members may send money to a prisoner by depositing it with the Department of Rehabilitation and Social Reintegration. This organization manages and controls the funds and releases them to the prisoner as needed. The U.S. embassy can help with this process.  
• Many detainees face delays receiving prescribed medicines.  Mozambique’s prison system has a shortage of medications, including essential drugs managing chronic diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes.  
• Family and friends may need to provide medications for detainees and prisoners. The U.S. embassy can help with this process.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travelers who conduct religious services, proselytize, or pursue other missionary activities are required to hold temporary residence visas.  The visas are primarily approved by the Ministry of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs.

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Mozambique. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Mozambique prohibits discrimination against people with physical and mental disabilities. However, the law is not enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure. 
• Although the Mozambican government legislatively mandates access to public buildings, transportation, and government services for persons with disabilities, the government does not have the resources to enact and enforce these laws. 
• Sidewalks in Mozambique are not common. Where they do exist, most do not have accessible curbs, are poorly maintained, and commonly have obstructions.  
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.

Sexual Assault

The law prohibits rape, including spousal rape, but it is not effectively enforced. Statistics are unknown in rural areas where most rapes take place.

• Penalties range from 2 to 8 years’ imprisonment if the victim is 12 years of age or older.
• Penalties are 20 to 24 years’ imprisonment if the victim is under 12, according to the new penal code.

Domestic violence

The law prohibits violence against women. Domestic violence against women, particularly spousal rape and beatings is common. Abuse of a spouse or unmarried partner is punishable with 1 to 2 years in prison, or a greater penalty if another crime also occurred.

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Mozambique Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Travelers’ Health Information
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 119 for police emergencies
• Dial 112 for domestic violence cases 
• Visit the U.S. embassy website for a list of medical providers and air evacuation services throughout Mozambique.

Ambulance services

• Ambulances are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.
• Ambulances are not equipped with advanced medical equipment. 
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.
• Some private clinics can provide ambulance services.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Mozambique. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Mozambique.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice
• Yellow Fever vaccination is required if you are traveling to Mozambique from a country with yellow fever.

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in major cities and some tourist destinations. Adequate health care does not exist in rural areas. 

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals Medical Assistance - U.S. Embassy in Mozambique. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 
• Public medical clinics generally lack basic resources and supplies.   
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.  
• U.S. citizens have filed many complaints about unethical business practices. They have expressed concern about high prices and collection methods from some private hospitals. Before agreeing to any medical care, gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.    
• Be aware that some hotels or resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers. This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention if you fall ill in one of these establishments.  
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.  
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff are available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option may be family staying the night with the patient, especially a child. However, some hospitals do not allow overnight guests, including family members.  
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.  
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

Check with Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the medication is legal to bring into the country.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, in a container that names the traveler and the prescribing physician, along with your doctor’s prescription.  
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.  
• Counterfeit medication is common in Mozambique and may not work, have the wrong dosage, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the guidance of a medical professional and from trusted pharmacies.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Water quality and food safety

• In most areas, tap water is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

Many cities in Mozambique are at high altitude.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude places like Mount Namuli and Chimoio Highlands.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Maputo, Mozambique.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

The EN4 toll road between Maputo and Komatiport in South Africa is well maintained and has very heavy truck traffic.

• The R403/200 toll road between Maputo and Kosi Bay in South Africa is well maintained. The road network connecting Mozambique’s regional capitals is in fair condition but can have potholes and other obstacles.  
• U.S. embassy employees are prohibited from traveling by vehicle in rural areas after dark due to poor road conditions, or poor local vehicle conditions such as no head lights, brake lights, or rear lights.
• There is also a threat of pedestrians and grazing livestock on roadsides and intoxicated drivers.  

Northern Mozambique risks

U.S. embassy personnel travel is highly restricted to the Province of Cabo Delgado, the Niassa Special Reserve, and the districts of Erati and Memba in Nampula Province. 

• The Islamic State of Mozambique (IS-M) regularly conducts attacks against government and civilian targets within these areas. 
• IS-M have also staged attacks on the N380 highway in Cabo Delgado and have stopped vehicles to demand payment and are known to conduct kidnappings for ransom.

Traffic laws 

Foreigners visiting Mozambique for more than 90 days are required to have an International Driver’s License or to obtain a Mozambican driver’s license. 

• Drivers should obey police signals to stop at police checkpoints. They are common throughout Mozambique. 
• Traffic drives on the left. The steering wheel is on the right side of the car.  
• Seatbelts are required for all passengers by law. 
• Car seats for babies and children are not required by law and are not readily available.  
• It is illegal to text or use cell phones without hands-free devices while driving.  
• In fatal accidents, drivers face mandatory 72-hour detention for investigation. 
• Always carry a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, inspection, and insurance documents. Follow speed limits. 
• Police check points are common. Failure to carry proper documents and follow speed limits will often result in requests for bribes. Politely decline to pay on the spot. Instead, ask for an official written citation.
• Be alert for pedestrians and farm animals on roadways, especially in rural areas.

Traffic accidents

• Accidents involving drivers and pedestrians are common and often fatal. The potential for accidents increases at night due to unseen potholes and obstructions, pedestrians on highways, and other vehicles without headlights.
• If a serious accident occurs or if a driver hits a pedestrian, crowds quickly gather. Ambulance and emergency services are normally unavailable.  
• Mozambican law requires parties to an accident to help and to leave vehicles in the exact positions they were struck. However, you should exercise your best judgement. Help if necessary and practical, but only if you feel like you are not placing yourself at risk. 
• Report the accident to the nearest police station and contact the U.S. Embassy immediately.
• Emergency roadside assistance is not available. Carry spare tires, jack, and tools. Carry emergency supplies of water and nonperishable food, first aid kit, and other emergency supplies.

Taxis and ride-shares

The U.S. embassy advises U.S. citizens not to use “chapas” (local minibuses) as a method of transportation. Fatal accidents are common.

• Mozambique’s transportation is evolving. Both traditional taxis and modern ride-sharing apps are becoming more popular.
• Cashless options are becoming more common but you should carry cash for payments and tips. 
• Mozambique has 3-wheeled taxis commonly referred to as “Txopelas” or tuk tuks.  They suffer from frequent, often fatal accidents. U.S. embassy employees are not allowed to use Txopelas. 
• Use trusted taxis or ride-sharing applications. U.S. embassy personnel are not permitted to use public transportation or chapas in Mozambique.

Public and commercial transportation

Visit the website of Mozambique’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

• Public ground transport is overcrowded. Vehicles are poorly maintained and have frequent accidents. U.S. embassy personnel are not allowed to use public ground transport in Mozambique. 
• Mozambique’s rail and highway commercial transportation is well-developed in east–west corridors. It is limited in north–south connectivity. Rail and port networks are important for trade. Road and air transport serve both public mobility and commercial logistics. 
• Mozambique’s transportation system is a mix of rail, road, water, and air networks serving both public and commercial needs. These infrastructures are of poor quality. 
• Mozambique has 8 international airports and over 20 paved airports serving both public passenger travel and commercial cargo.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Maritime Travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Mozambique should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Mozambique’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Mozambique has a tropical climate and has 2 main seasons: a hot, wet season from November to April; and a warm, dry season from May to October.

Tropical cyclones

Mozambique suffers from a tropical cyclone season from November to April. There are an average of 3 to 5 tropical cyclones per year.

• Central and northern Mozambique are vulnerable to cyclones, including the cities of Beira, Nacala, and Pemba.
• Cyclones can devastate coastal areas from high winds and tidal surges. They can also lead to severe flooding for inland regions of Mozambique.  
• Mozambican government response to cyclone and flooding disasters is limited. These disasters come with disease outbreaks, including malaria and cholera.
• The U.S. embassy advises Americans to leave areas under threat from forecasted storms before they hit.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates