Where is Mozambique Located?

Where is Mozambique located on the map? Mozambique is an independent nation located in Eastern Africa. Check out the following images to see location of Mozambique on maps.

Mozambique Location in World Map

Here you can see the location of Mozambique on the African continent. Opposite Mozambique is the island of Madagascar.

Location Information of Mozambique

Latitude and Longitude

Mozambique is located in Southeastern Africa, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the east, Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, and South Africa and Eswatini (Swaziland) to the south. The country’s approximate geographic coordinates are 18.6657° S latitude and 35.5296° E longitude. Mozambique’s coastline stretches for about 2,470 kilometers (1,535 miles), making it one of the longest coastlines in Africa. The country is rich in natural resources, including fertile soil, forests, and a variety of marine life.

The country lies between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer, with regions closer to the equator experiencing tropical conditions and areas further south having a more temperate climate.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: Maputo

The capital and largest city of Mozambique is Maputo, located in the southern part of the country, along the Indian Ocean coast. With a population of about 1.1 million people in the city proper, Maputo is the economic, political, and cultural hub of Mozambique. The city is known for its colonial-era architecture, including the Maputo Railway Station, Fortaleza da Nossa Senhora da Conceição, and the National Art Museum. Maputo is also a major port and a center for commerce, with industries ranging from seafood processing to textiles.

Maputo is a vibrant city with a mix of cultures, including Portuguese, African, and Indian influences, making it a melting pot for cuisine, art, and traditions. The city has a tropical savanna climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters.

Major Cities

1. Beira: Located on the central coast, Beira is the second-largest city in Mozambique, with a population of around 500,000 people. It serves as a major port city, with the Port of Beira being one of the most important in the country. Beira is also known for its historical significance and colonial buildings, such as the Beira Railway Station and the Cathedral of Beira.
2. Nampula: Nampula is the capital of Nampula Province and one of the largest cities in northern Mozambique. With a population of about 500,000, Nampula is an important regional economic center. The city is situated inland, and its economy is centered around agriculture, mining, and trade.
3. Chimoio: Located in the central part of Mozambique, Chimoio has a population of around 200,000 people. The city is known for its agricultural production, particularly in coffee, maize, and tobacco. It is also a commercial hub for the surrounding rural areas, with significant trade in agricultural goods.
4. Tete: Situated near the borders with Zimbabwe and Zambia, Tete is an important commercial and mining city, particularly for coal. With a population of around 200,000, Tete plays a key role in Mozambique’s growing mining industry and is one of the country’s primary economic contributors.
5. Quelimane: Quelimane, located on the central coast along the Zambezi River, is the capital of Zambezia Province and has a population of around 200,000. It is an important port and agricultural center, known for the production of tobacco, rice, and cashews. The city is also significant for its fishery industries.

Time Zone

Mozambique operates on Central Africa Time (CAT), which is UTC +2:00. The country does not observe daylight saving time, and time remains the same throughout the year. Mozambique shares this time zone with several other countries in Southern Africa, including South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The lack of daylight saving time makes it easy for business and tourism to function smoothly within the region, especially considering Mozambique’s proximity to several neighboring countries.

Climate

Mozambique has a tropical climate, with regions near the coast experiencing more humid conditions and areas inland having a more temperate, semi-arid climate. The country experiences distinct wet and dry seasons.

1. Coastal Climate

The coastal areas of Mozambique, including cities like Maputo and Beira, have a tropical savanna climate. Summers (from November to April) are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). During this period, these areas experience heavy rainfall, which peaks between January and March. The rainy season is crucial for agriculture, especially for crops like cassava, maize, and tobacco. Winters (from May to October) are much drier and milder, with average temperatures ranging between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

2. Inland Climate

The interior regions of Mozambique, including Tete and Nampula, experience a more continental climate, with hotter summers and cooler winters. Summer temperatures can often exceed 35°C (95°F), especially in the more arid regions. The rainy season is still significant here, though the rainfall is less intense compared to the coastal regions. Winters are dry and can experience cooler temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

3. Highlands and Mountains

In the highland areas, such as the Limpopo Valley and Mount Lico, the climate is more temperate, with cooler temperatures and more significant rainfall during the wet season. Winters in these areas can be much cooler, with temperatures occasionally dipping below 10°C (50°F), especially at higher elevations.

4. Cyclones

Mozambique is also prone to tropical cyclones, particularly during the wet season (from November to April). These storms bring heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding, particularly affecting the central and northern parts of the country. Mozambique’s government and humanitarian organizations work to mitigate the effects of these cyclones through preparedness and aid programs.

Economic Status

Mozambique has a developing economy, with agriculture, mining, and energy being the key drivers. Since the end of the civil war in 1992, the country has experienced significant economic growth, although challenges like poverty, unemployment, and income inequality remain.

1. Agriculture

Agriculture is the backbone of the Mozambican economy, employing a large proportion of the population, particularly in rural areas. Key crops include cassava, maize, rice, tobacco, and cotton. Mozambique is one of the world’s largest producers of cashews, which are a significant export product. The agricultural sector is vital for both domestic food security and foreign exchange earnings.

2. Mining and Natural Resources

Mozambique is rich in natural resources, and its mining sector has been a major contributor to economic growth. The country is one of the world’s leading exporters of coal, and natural gas exploration has increased its significance in global energy markets. Mozambique is also known for producing titanium, gold, gems, and lithium. Foreign investments in these sectors, particularly from China and other Asian countries, have significantly boosted the country’s economic prospects.

3. Energy

The energy sector in Mozambique is growing, with significant potential for renewable energy, particularly hydropower from the Zambezi River. The country is also developing its natural gas reserves in the Offshore Area 1 and Offshore Area 4 in the Rovuma Basin. Energy exports are expected to play a more important role in the country’s economy in the coming decades.

4. Tourism

Tourism is a growing sector for Mozambique, thanks to its extensive coastline, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Mozambique’s wildlife parks and marine reserves, particularly those in Gorongosa National Park and the Bazaruto Archipelago, attract tourists from around the world. The country is also famous for its colonial-era cities, such as Maputo, which boasts a vibrant mix of African, Portuguese, and Indian influences.

5. Challenges

Despite its abundant natural resources, Mozambique faces challenges such as corruption, ineffective public services, and the impact of natural disasters, including floods and cyclones. Poverty remains widespread, especially in rural areas, and unemployment rates are high. Additionally, political instability and conflict, particularly in the northern region, have hampered development in certain areas.

Tourist Attractions

1. Bazaruto Archipelago The Bazaruto Archipelago, located off the coast of southern Mozambique, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the best places in the world for diving, snorkeling, and marine wildlife viewing. The area is home to dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.
2. Gorongosa National Park Located in central Mozambique, Gorongosa National Park is one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves. The park is known for its stunning biodiversity, including the big five (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos). Gorongosa is considered a model for conservation efforts in Africa and offers opportunities for safaris, bird watching, and hiking.
3. Maputo The capital city of Maputo is known for its mix of colonial architecture, beaches, and vibrant markets. Major attractions include the Maputo Railway Station, Fortaleza da Nossa Senhora da Conceição, and the National Art Museum. The city’s waterfront offers picturesque views, and its food scene is heavily influenced by Portuguese and African flavors.
4. Vilanculos Vilanculos, located on the central coast, is a popular destination for travelers seeking stunning beaches, water sports, and a laid-back atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago and is known for its traditional dhow boats and scuba diving opportunities.
5. Inhambane A historical town located on the coast of southern Mozambique, Inhambane is one of the oldest towns in the country. It offers beautiful beaches, historic churches, and a rich cultural heritage. The nearby Tofo Beach is famous for its excellent diving and whale shark sightings.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Mozambique for tourism or business purposes must obtain a visa. The visa can be obtained from the Mozambican embassy or consulate in the U.S., or through an e-visa system for short stays. A valid passport, a visa application, and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay are required. Visas are typically valid for 30 days, though longer stays can be arranged.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

Distance to New York City

The distance from New York City to Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, is approximately 13,000 kilometers (8,000 miles). Flights generally require one or more stopovers, with travel times ranging from 16 to 18 hours, depending on the flight route.

Distance to Los Angeles

The distance from Los Angeles to Maputo is about 15,000 kilometers (9,320 miles). Similar to flights from New York, travel from Los Angeles typically requires at least one stopover, with total flight times ranging from 18 to 20 hours.

Mozambique Facts

Size	801,590 km²
Residents	25.30 million
Language	Portuguese
Capital	Maputo
Longest river	Zambezi (total length 2,574 km)
Highest mountain	Monte Binga (2,436 m)
Currency	Metical