Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Maputo and explore the historic downtown area, discovering colonial architecture and vibrant public squares.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at Maputo International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the city center. Take time to settle in and get oriented with the neighborhood. Enjoy a leisurely walk around your hotel area to get your first impressions of this coastal capital with its distinctive blend of Portuguese colonial and African influences.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Arrange airport transfer in advance through your accommodation for safety and convenience
Lunch
A local restaurant near Praça da Independência serving traditional Mozambican cuisine
Mozambican seafood and peri-peri chicken
Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore Praça da Independência and surrounding architecture
Visit Praça da Independência, the heart of Maputo, surrounded by stunning colonial buildings. Admire the Cathedral and various government buildings that showcase the city's architectural heritage. Walk through the square and observe local life, street vendors, and the iconic jacaranda trees that line many streets. Take photos of the impressive facades and soak in the atmosphere.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Sunset stroll and dinner
Walk along the Marginal waterfront promenade at sunset, then enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant with ocean views
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Mid-range hotel in the downtown area)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and restaurants while offering a safe base for your first nights
Exchange some money at the airport or use ATMs in secure locations like shopping centers. The local currency is the Metical (MZN).
Day 1 Budget: $70-90
Dive deep into Mozambican culture and history through the city's excellent museum collection.
Morning
Visit Museu de Historia Natural
Explore this fascinating natural history museum housed in a beautiful colonial building. The museum features an impressive collection of elephant embryos in various stages of development, extensive taxidermy displays of African wildlife, and geological specimens. The building itself is an architectural gem worth admiring. Don't miss the elephant hall, which contains one of the world's most complete collections of its kind.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A café in the downtown area specializing in Portuguese-influenced dishes
Portuguese-Mozambican fusion
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Museu Nacional de Arte and Casa de Ferro
Visit the National Art Museum to see contemporary and traditional Mozambican art, including striking sculptures and paintings. Afterward, walk to Casa de Ferro (Iron House), the unique prefabricated iron building designed by Gustave Eiffel. This quirky structure stands as a testament to colonial-era architecture, though it proved impractical for Maputo's tropical climate. The contrast between these two attractions offers insight into both modern creativity and historical curiosity.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Evening
Dinner and local music
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring live Marrabenta music,
Mozambique's traditional music genre
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Staying in the same location eliminates packing and allows you to settle in while remaining close to cultural attractions
Many museums close early (around 3-4 PM), so plan your visits for morning and early afternoon.
Day 2 Budget: $60-80
Discover Maputo's military history and enjoy peaceful gardens before experiencing the coastal atmosphere.
Morning
Visit Fortress of Maputo
Explore this historic 18th-century fortress that once protected the bay from pirates and invaders. The well-preserved structure offers panoramic views of Maputo Bay and the harbor. Inside, you'll find a small military museum with artifacts, cannons, and historical displays about
Mozambique's colonial period. The fortress provides excellent photo opportunities and a cool respite from the city heat with its thick stone walls.
2 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A beachside restaurant serving fresh grilled prawns and seafood
Fresh seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Relax at Teachers Garden and Jardim Dona Berta
Spend a peaceful afternoon exploring these beautiful urban gardens. Teachers Garden offers shaded pathways, tropical plants, and a quiet atmosphere perfect for reading or people-watching. Jardim Dona Berta provides lovely landscaping and benches for relaxation. These green spaces offer locals and visitors alike a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets, showcasing Maputo's commitment to preserving natural beauty within the urban environment.
2-3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Evening at Costa do Sol
Head to Costa do Sol beach area for sunset, beach bars, and fresh seafood dinner with your feet in the sand
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Same accommodation)
Maintaining your base while exploring different parts of the city keeps logistics simple
Costa do Sol is most vibrant on weekends when locals flock to the beach. Visit on a Friday or Saturday evening for the best atmosphere.
Day 3 Budget: $65-85
Explore Maputo's diverse religious architecture and experience the vibrant local market culture.
Morning
Visit Catedral de Maputo and Saint Anthony Catholic Church
Begin at the impressive Catedral de Maputo, a striking white cathedral with a distinctive modernist design. Admire its unique architecture and peaceful interior. Then visit Saint Anthony Catholic Church, another beautiful example of religious architecture in the city. These churches reflect Maputo's Portuguese colonial heritage while serving as active places of worship. The contrast in architectural styles provides insight into different periods of the city's development.
2 hours
$0-3
Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid visits during mass unless participating
Lunch
A local eatery near the central market serving traditional Mozambican dishes
Traditional Mozambican
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Feira de Artesanato and Jumma Masjid
Browse the Feira de Artesanato (Craft Fair) for authentic Mozambican handicrafts, including woodcarvings, textiles, jewelry, and traditional art. This is the perfect place to purchase souvenirs while supporting local artisans. Afterward, visit Jumma Masjid, an impressive mosque that showcases the Islamic heritage within Maputo's diverse religious landscape. The mosque's architecture and peaceful courtyard offer a different perspective on the city's cultural richness.
3 hours
$10-30
Evening
Dinner and casino experience
Enjoy upscale dining followed by entertainment at Casino Polana, a historic landmark offering gaming and shows
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Same accommodation)
Continue enjoying your established base in the city center
Bargaining is expected at the craft market. Start at about 50-60% of the asking price and negotiate respectfully.
Day 4 Budget: $70-100
Delve into specialized collections covering ethnography, currency, geology, and transportation history.
Morning
Visit Museu Nacional de Etnografia and Museu da Moeda
Start at the Ethnography Museum to learn about
Mozambique's diverse ethnic groups, traditional customs, and cultural practices through artifacts, textiles, and displays. Then visit the Currency Museum to discover the fascinating monetary history of
Mozambique, from pre-colonial trade items to modern currency. These specialized museums offer deep insights into aspects of Mozambican society often overlooked by casual visitors.
3 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A café in a colonial-era building serving light meals and excellent coffee
International café fare
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Museum of Geology and Museu dos CFM
Visit the Geology Museum to see impressive mineral specimens and learn about
Mozambique's geological wealth. Then head to the Railway Museum (CFM) to explore vintage locomotives, railway cars, and exhibits documenting the crucial role of railways in
Mozambique's development. The CFM museum offers a unique perspective on infrastructure and colonial-era transportation, with well-preserved equipment and informative displays.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Evening
Cultural performance and dinner
Attend a performance at Centro Social & Cultural Do Núcleo De Arte, featuring traditional dance or contemporary theater
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Same accommodation)
Final night in your central location before exploring other areas
Check the schedule at cultural centers in advance as performances and exhibitions vary. Many venues have Facebook pages with current listings.
Day 5 Budget: $60-85
Discover the historic Mafalala neighborhood before relocating to the beach area for a change of pace.
Morning
Visit Museu Mafalala and neighborhood tour
Explore Museu Mafalala, dedicated to preserving the history of this significant neighborhood where many of
Mozambique's independence leaders once lived. The museum offers guided tours through the area, showcasing the vibrant community that has been home to artists, intellectuals, and political figures. Learn about the neighborhood's role in shaping modern
Mozambique while experiencing its colorful streets and welcoming atmosphere.
3 hours
$10-15
Join a guided tour for safety and deeper cultural understanding of this historic area
Lunch
A local restaurant in Mafalala serving traditional home-style cooking
Authentic Mozambican home cooking
Budget
Afternoon
Transfer to Costa do Sol and beach relaxation
Check out from your central hotel and transfer to accommodation near Costa do Sol beach. Settle into your new beachside location and spend the afternoon relaxing on the sand, swimming in the Indian Ocean, or enjoying beachfront cafés. Costa do Sol offers a more laid-back atmosphere than downtown, with beautiful stretches of beach and a distinctly coastal vibe that characterizes Mozambican beach culture.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Evening
Beachfront dining
Enjoy fresh seafood at a beach restaurant with tables on the sand, watching the waves under the stars
Where to Stay Tonight
Costa do Sol (Beachfront guesthouse or hotel)
Transitioning to the beach area allows for a more relaxed second week with easy ocean access
Bring cash to Costa do Sol as many beach vendors and smaller restaurants don't accept cards.
Day 6 Budget: $75-95
Enjoy a full day of beach activities, water sports, and coastal relaxation.
Morning
Beach relaxation and swimming
Start your day with a peaceful morning on Costa do Sol beach. The warm Indian Ocean waters are perfect for swimming, and the beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing and relaxation. Take a long walk along the shoreline, collecting shells and enjoying the coastal scenery. The morning hours offer the best conditions for swimming before the afternoon heat intensifies and the beach becomes more crowded with locals.
3 hours
$5-10
Lunch
A beachside grill serving fresh fish, prawns, and traditional sides
Grilled seafood
Budget
Afternoon
Water sports and beach activities
Try various beach activities available at Costa do Sol. Options include beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or simply lounging under a rented umbrella with a good book. Local vendors offer fresh coconuts and snacks along the beach. The afternoon brings a lively atmosphere as Maputo residents join tourists to enjoy the ocean breeze and social scene. This is your chance to experience beach culture as the locals do.
3-4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Sunset and beach bar experience
Watch the spectacular Indian Ocean sunset from a beach bar while enjoying cold drinks and live music
Where to Stay Tonight
Costa do Sol (Same beachfront accommodation)
Continue enjoying your beach base for easy morning access to the ocean
Weekends at Costa do Sol are much busier than weekdays. For a quieter beach experience, visit on weekday mornings.
Day 7 Budget: $65-85
Take a full-day excursion to Maputo National Park for wildlife viewing and nature exploration.
Morning
Maputo National Park game drive
Depart early for Maputo National Park, located about 90 minutes from the city. This beautiful reserve protects diverse ecosystems including wetlands, forests, and savannas. Join a guided game drive to spot elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species. The park is also home to over 350 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The morning hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
4-5 hours
$40-60
Book a guided tour in advance that includes park fees and transportation for the best experience
Lunch
Picnic lunch in the park or at a designated rest area
Packed lunch
Budget
Afternoon
Continue park exploration and return journey
Spend more time exploring different areas of the park, perhaps visiting the coastal sections where mangroves meet the ocean. Look for additional wildlife and enjoy the pristine natural environment that contrasts sharply with urban Maputo. The park's relatively undeveloped nature means you'll often have vast areas to yourself. Begin your return journey in late afternoon, arriving back at Costa do Sol by early evening.
3-4 hours
$0
Evening
Relaxed dinner near accommodation
Enjoy a quiet dinner after your adventure, reflecting on the day's wildlife encounters
Where to Stay Tonight
Costa do Sol (Same beachfront accommodation)
Return to your comfortable beach base after a day of adventure
Bring binoculars, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The park can be hot and there are limited facilities inside.
Day 8 Budget: $90-120
A relaxed day to recover from yesterday's adventure while experiencing local beach life.
Morning
Leisurely beach morning
Sleep in and enjoy a slow morning after yesterday's early start. Take a gentle walk along the beach, perhaps trying a beachfront yoga session if available, or simply relax with breakfast overlooking the ocean. Use this time to catch up on journaling, organize photos, or read. The unhurried pace allows you to truly absorb the coastal atmosphere and recharge for the days ahead.
3 hours
$5-10
Lunch
A casual beach shack serving traditional Mozambican street food
Local street food and snacks
Budget
Afternoon
Explore local beach communities
Walk along the coast to observe local fishing activities and beach communities. Watch fishermen bring in their daily catch and repair their nets. Visit small beach markets where locals sell fresh fish and produce. This offers authentic insight into coastal Mozambican life beyond the tourist experience. Engage with friendly locals who are often happy to share stories about their daily lives and the ocean that sustains them.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Seafood feast
Indulge in a seafood dinner featuring Maputo's famous giant prawns, prepared with peri-peri sauce
Where to Stay Tonight
Costa do Sol (Same beachfront accommodation)
Continue enjoying the relaxed beach atmosphere
If you see fishermen selling fresh catch on the beach, some nearby restaurants will cook your purchase for a small fee.
Day 9 Budget: $55-75
Return to central Maputo for revisiting favorite spots and experiencing the evening cultural scene.
Morning
Final beach morning and check-out
Enjoy your last morning at the beach with a final swim in the Indian Ocean. Take time to savor the coastal atmosphere you've enjoyed over the past few days. Pack your belongings and check out from your beach accommodation, preparing for your return to central Maputo. Consider purchasing any last-minute beach souvenirs from local vendors before departing the area.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
A restaurant in central Maputo serving fusion cuisine
Modern Mozambican fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Revisit favorite central attractions or explore missed sites
Return to central Maputo and check into your city accommodation. Use the afternoon to revisit any favorite museums or attractions from your first days, or explore any sites you may have missed. Perhaps return to the Feira de Artesanato for any last-minute shopping, or simply wander through the downtown streets with fresh eyes, noticing details you missed during your initial exploration.
3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Cultural evening at Centro Social & Cultural Do Núcleo De Arte
Attend an evening performance or exhibition opening, followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant popular with the arts crowd
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Mid-range hotel in downtown)
Return to the city center for easy access to cultural activities and restaurants for your final days
Many cultural events start later than advertised. Arrive fashionably late or enjoy a pre-show drink nearby.
Day 10 Budget: $70-90
Spend the day appreciating Maputo's artistic heritage and unique architectural landmarks.
Morning
Extended visit to Museu Nacional de Arte
Return to the National Art Museum for a more thorough exploration of Mozambican contemporary art. Spend time studying the works of important Mozambican artists and understanding the evolution of art in the country from colonial times through independence to the present day. The museum's collection provides profound insights into Mozambican identity and cultural expression through visual arts. Take your time with pieces that resonate with you.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A café in a historic building with architectural significance
Light Portuguese-style lunch
Mid-range
Afternoon
Architectural walking tour
Take a self-guided walking tour of Maputo's distinctive architecture, including Casa de Ferro and various Art Deco buildings throughout the city center. Admire the colonial-era mansions, modernist structures, and the unique blend of European and African architectural influences. Pay attention to the decorative details, colored tiles, and wrought-iron balconies that characterize many buildings. This walking tour reveals how architecture tells the story of Maputo's complex history.
3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Upscale dining experience
Enjoy a fine dining experience at one of Maputo's best restaurants, celebrating Mozambican cuisine with modern presentation
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Same city center accommodation)
Maintain your central base for convenient access to downtown attractions
The best light for architectural photography is early morning or late afternoon. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful building details.
Day 11 Budget: $75-100
Immerse yourself in local markets and culinary experiences for an authentic taste of daily life.
Morning
Local market exploration
Visit local markets beyond the tourist-oriented craft fair to see where Maputo residents shop for daily needs. Explore produce markets filled with tropical fruits, vegetables, and spices. Observe the vibrant commerce and social interactions that make markets the heart of community life. Sample fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and cashew apples. The sensory experience of colors, sounds, and aromas provides unforgettable memories of authentic Maputo.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Lunch
A local restaurant known among residents for authentic home-style cooking
Traditional Mozambican dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Final shopping and souvenir hunting
Return to Feira de Artesanato for final souvenir purchases with your enhanced understanding of Mozambican culture. Look for items that truly represent your experience: traditional textiles, carved wooden sculptures, local music, or artwork. Take time to chat with artisans about their work. Also explore any local shops or galleries you've discovered during your stay for unique finds that support local creators.
3 hours
$30-60
Evening
Farewell dinner with traditional music
Enjoy a special farewell dinner featuring live Marrabenta music and traditional dishes you've come to love
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Same city center accommodation)
Final nights in your comfortable city base before departure
Keep small bills handy for market purchases. Vendors often don't have change for large notes.
Day 12 Budget: $80-110
A leisurely final full day to revisit favorite spots and soak in the atmosphere before departure.
Morning
Peaceful morning at Teachers Garden
Start your final full day with a peaceful morning at Teachers Garden. Find a quiet bench to sit and reflect on your two weeks in Maputo. Watch local life unfold around you as people exercise, children play, and residents enjoy the green space. This contemplative time allows you to process your experiences and appreciate the slower pace of life that characterizes
Mozambique. Bring a journal to record final thoughts and memories.
2 hours
$0-5
Lunch
Return to your favorite restaurant discovered during your stay
Your preferred cuisine from the trip
Mid-range
Afternoon
Waterfront relaxation and final explorations
Spend the afternoon along the Marginal waterfront, enjoying the ocean breeze and watching boats in the harbor. Visit any attractions you'd like to see one more time, or simply wander through neighborhoods you've grown fond of. Take final photographs of scenes you want to remember. Perhaps enjoy a coffee at a favorite café, watching the rhythm of city life and absorbing the essence of Maputo one last time.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Evening
Final sunset and casual dinner
Watch your final Maputo sunset from a waterfront location, followed by a relaxed dinner at a favorite spot
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Maputo (Same city center accommodation)
Final night in your established accommodation for easy departure preparation
Organize and pack most items tonight to make your departure morning stress-free.
Day 13 Budget: $60-80
Final morning in Maputo before your departure, with time for last-minute activities.
Morning
Final breakfast and check-out
Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast, savoring Mozambican coffee and fresh tropical fruit one last time. Complete your check-out process and ensure you have all your belongings and souvenirs properly packed. If time permits before your flight, take a final short walk around your neighborhood, saying goodbye to the streets and sights that have become familiar over the past two weeks.
2 hours
$10-15
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or near your hotel depending on flight time
Quick meal
Budget
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Maputo International Airport with plenty of time before your flight. Allow extra time for check-in and security, especially if you're carrying handicrafts or souvenirs that might require inspection. As you leave, reflect on the incredible diversity of experiences Maputo has offered: from pristine beaches to fascinating museums, from colonial architecture to vibrant markets, and most importantly, the warmth and hospitality of the Mozambican people.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Confirm your airport transfer the day before to ensure timely departure
Evening
Departure
Depart Maputo with memories of an unforgettable two-week adventure in
Mozambique's vibrant capital
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of itinerary
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights. The airport can be busy and security lines lengthy.
Day 14 Budget: $40-60