Things to Do in Maputo in December

December Weather in Maputo

31°C (87°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

84 mm (3.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

December marks the start of mango season - street vendors sell fresh tangerines and cashews at 15-20 MT per kg, and the famous Maputo Bay prawns are at their peak size and flavor
Festive atmosphere with Christmas markets at Praça da Independência and New Year celebrations - locals stay out later, creating vibrant nightlife that extends until 3am on weekends
Perfect beach weather with 28°C (82°F) water temperatures at Costa do Sol and Catembe - afternoon sea breezes provide natural cooling from the intense heat
Jacaranda trees bloom throughout the city creating purple-lined avenues, particularly spectacular along Avenida Julius Nyerere and Avenida Eduardo Mondlane

Considerations

Peak humidity makes 31°C (87°F) feel like 35°C (95°F) - even locals seek air conditioning during midday hours from 11am-3pm
Afternoon thunderstorms occur 60% of days, typically 2pm-5pm, and can flood low-lying areas like Baixa district within 30 minutes
December 20-January 5 is peak season for South African holidaymakers - accommodation prices increase 40-60% and popular restaurants require reservations 3-5 days ahead

Best Activities in December

Inhaca Island Day Trips

December offers perfect conditions for the 2-hour boat ride to Inhaca Island with calm waters and 28°C (82°F) sea temperatures. Marine life is most active during summer months, with excellent snorkeling visibility of 15-20m (49-66 ft). The island's lighthouse museum and turtle nesting sites are accessible before afternoon storms hit the mainland.

Booking Tip: Book ferry tickets 5-7 days ahead through the port authority - departures at 7:30am and 2:30pm cost 150-200 MT return. Private boat charters range 2,500-4,000 MT for 6-8 people. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Maputo Bay Dhow Sailing

December's consistent afternoon winds (15-20 knots) create ideal sailing conditions for traditional dhow boats. The bay is calmest in early morning (6-9am) before sea breezes pick up. December sunsets at 6:30pm offer spectacular views of the bay's prawn fishing boats returning to harbor.

Booking Tip: Half-day dhow trips typically cost 800-1,200 MT per person including lunch. Book through licensed operators at Maputo Marina - avoid unlicensed boats without safety equipment. Check current sailing tours in booking section below.

Mafalala Township Cultural Walking Tours

December's festive season brings community celebrations and traditional music performances to this historic neighborhood. Early morning walks (7-10am) avoid midday heat while markets are most active. December is harvest time for local urban gardens, offering authentic insights into Maputo's food culture.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost 300-500 MT for 3-4 hours with local guides. Book through community tourism offices - tours support local families directly. Morning slots fill up faster during December holidays.

Central Market Food Tours

Mercado Central buzzes with December activity as locals prepare for holidays. Summer fruits like mangoes, papayas, and lychees are at peak season. The market's covered sections provide relief from afternoon heat while showcasing seasonal specialties like fresh coconut water and grilled cassava.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours range 400-700 MT including tastings. Independent exploration costs 100-200 MT for samples. Visit between 8-11am before crowds and heat intensify. Check food tour options in booking section below.

Maputo National Park Day Trips

December rains bring lush vegetation and active wildlife to the park 80km (50 miles) south of the city. Elephant herds gather near water sources, and bird migration peaks with over 350 species present. Game drives are best at dawn (6-9am) and late afternoon (4-6pm) to avoid midday heat.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips cost 1,800-2,800 MT including transport and park fees. 4WD vehicles essential during rainy season. Book 7-10 days ahead as December is peak wildlife viewing season. See current safari options in booking section below.

Fortaleza da Maputo Historical Tours

The 18th-century fortress offers air-conditioned museum spaces perfect for escaping December heat. The fort's elevated position provides cooling sea breezes and panoramic bay views. December's clear mornings offer best visibility for photography and exploring the ramparts.

Booking Tip: Self-guided visits cost 50 MT entry fee. Guided tours available for 150-250 MT lasting 90 minutes. Open 8am-5pm daily - visit before 11am or after 4pm to avoid peak heat.

December Events & Festivals

December 15-24

Maputo Christmas Market

Local artisans sell traditional crafts, wooden carvings, and capulana fabrics at Praça da Independência. Features live marrabenta music performances and traditional foods like matapa and grilled prawns. The market stays open until 10pm with festive lighting.

Late December

Festival Azgo

Maputo's premier music festival showcasing Southern African artists, particularly strong in marrabenta, gospel, and contemporary African music. Held at various venues across the city including Instituto Franco-Moçambicano and Centro Cultural Franco-Moçambicano.

December 31

New Year's Eve Bay Celebration

Fireworks display over Maputo Bay visible from Marginal waterfront. Local families gather with traditional foods and the celebration includes live music at multiple venues along the coastline. Street vendors sell grilled corn and fresh fruit juices.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry shorts and breathable cotton shirts - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity and 35°C (95°F) feels-like temperatures

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon storms last 20-45 minutes but can be intense with heavy downpours

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off Maputo Bay intensifies exposure

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - streets can become slippery during rain and you'll want ventilation in the heat

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - December rains increase mosquito activity, especially near the bay and Infulene River

Portable phone charger - high humidity can drain battery faster and you'll use GPS frequently in the heat when seeking air-conditioned refuges

Light scarf or shawl - for entering churches and mosques, plus air-conditioned restaurants can feel cold after outdoor heat

Electrolyte tablets or powder - essential for replacing minerals lost through constant sweating in high humidity

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during sudden downpours and if taking boat trips to Inhaca Island

Cash in small denominations - many vendors don't accept cards and you'll need 5-50 MT notes for frequent purchases of cold drinks and snacks

Insider Knowledge

Locals take 'sesta' breaks from 11am-2pm during December heat - many shops close, so plan indoor activities like museums or malls during these hours

December prawns are largest and sweetest - order 'camarão grelhado' at beachfront restaurants, but locals know the best prices are at Mercado do Peixe before 10am

South African rand is widely accepted at 1:1 ratio with meticais, but you'll get better rates exchanging at banks rather than street vendors during peak season

December school holidays mean local families travel - book domestic flights to Vilanculos or Pemba at least 3 weeks ahead as prices double after December 15

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when heat index reaches dangerous levels - even locals avoid prolonged sun exposure during these hours

Underestimating December accommodation demand from South African tourists - prices increase 40-60% and beachfront hotels fill completely

Not carrying cash for frequent cold drink purchases - you'll need water, coconut water, or 2M beer every 2-3 hours in the heat and many vendors are cash-only