Travelling to Mozambique from Zimbabwe
Beaches, seafood, and adventure on Zimbabwe's eastern neighbour
Visa-Free - 90 DaysEntry Requirements
Visa-free: Zimbabweans can enter Mozambique without a visa for up to 90 days per visit.
Required Documents
- Valid Zimbabwe passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages)
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Return/onward transport
- Yellow Fever certificate (if from endemic area)
Border Crossings
| Border Post | Location | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forbes/Machipanda | Near Mutare | 6am-6pm | Most popular, connects to Beira |
| Nyamapanda/Cuchamano | Mashonaland East | 6am-6pm | Connects to Tete |
| Sango/Cochemane | Chiredzi area | 6am-6pm | Southern route, less traffic |
Forbes/Machipanda is the most popular crossing for Zimbabweans heading to the beach. From Mutare, it is about 300km to the coast at Beira.
Beach Destinations
Vilankulo
Gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago. Snorkelling, diving, dhow safaris, island hopping. Most popular beach destination for Zimbabweans.
Tofo Beach
Near Inhambane. Whale sharks, manta rays, surfing, diving. Backpacker-friendly with affordable accommodation.
Beira
Closest coastal city to Zimbabwe. Praia Nova beach, seafood restaurants, port town character.
Ponta do Ouro
Near South Africa border. Dolphins, diving, fishing. More accessible from Maputo than Zimbabwe.
Getting There
- Bus: Regular services from Harare/Mutare to Beira and Maputo. Harare to Beira: ~8 hours via Mutare.
- Driving: Mutare to Beira ~300km on EN6 highway. Road quality variable; be prepared for potholes.
- Flights: LAM Mozambique and other carriers operate Harare-Maputo routes.
- Self-drive tip: 4x4 recommended for beach destinations south of Vilankulo. Sand roads common near the coast.
Practical Tips
- Currency: Mozambican Metical (MZN). USD widely accepted in tourist areas. Exchange at banks, not street changers.
- Language: Portuguese is the official language. English is limited outside major cities. Learn basic Portuguese phrases.
- Malaria: Present throughout Mozambique. Take prophylaxis and use mosquito repellent.
- Safety: Generally safe for tourists in coastal areas. Be cautious in cities at night. Avoid northern Cabo Delgado region.
- Seafood: Fresh prawns, lobster, and fish are incredibly affordable. Must-try: peri-peri prawns.
- Driving: Drive on the left (same as Zimbabwe). Road conditions vary; fuel up whenever possible.
- Accommodation: Range from backpacker lodges ($10-20/night) to luxury resorts ($200+/night).
FAQ
No, Zimbabwean citizens can enter Mozambique visa-free for up to 90 days per visit under the SADC free movement agreement.
Vilankulo (Bazaruto Archipelago) and Tofo Beach (near Inhambane) are the most popular. Beira is the closest coastal city. For budget travellers, Tofo offers excellent value with backpacker lodges and amazing diving.
Quick Info
- Visa: Not required
- Stay: 90 days
- Currency: MZN (Metical)
- Language: Portuguese
- Drive: Left side