How to Embark on the Ultimate Coastal Road Trip Through Mozambique

Mozambique is one of the most underrated African regions and is a must-visit. With over 2500 kilometres of shoreline that faces the Indian Ocean, as well as beautiful, coconut-palm-scattered beaches, this place should be on every traveller’s bucket list. If you happen to journey along the vast coast of Mozambique, you will be pleasantly surprised to learn much more than you would have hoped for. The culture, the cuisine, and the coastal rhythms are all worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a wild off-grid adventure or a quiet retreat by the sea, this guide will help you plan the ultimate coastal road trip through Mozambique.

Starting in Maputo: Markets, Music and Colonial Echoes

Begin your journey in the capital, Maputo. A city full of great history and rhythm, its broad avenues are lined with jacaranda trees, faded Portuguese-era buildings, and colourful markets. You’ll want to visit the Iron House, designed by Gustav Eiffel, and stroll along the coast at Avenida Marginal before heading north. Maputo is also where you’ll stock up on supplies if you’re self-driving.

Maputo to Bilene: Tranquil Waters and Warm Welcomes

Around 180 kilometres north lies Bilene, a relaxed town on the edge of Uembje Lagoon. The water here is calm, shallow, and ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling. The relaxed atmosphere makes Bilene a good first stop as you ease into the journey and begin to experience the slower pace of life that characterises much of coastal Mozambique. Local bars, or “barracas,” serve grilled prawns and fresh fish alongside Laurentina beer.

Inhambane and Tofo: Culture, Coral and Whale Sharks

Further north, after several hours of travel, lies Inhambane, one of southern Africa's oldest settlements. This former Portuguese stronghold is now known for its colonial architecture and relaxed outlook on life. A short drive away, Tofo Beach offers excellent surfing and is one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks year-round. Diving enthusiasts have so many options when swimming in this area. Manta reef and Amazon reef are just two of many dive sites in and around Tofo Beach, with excellent visibility and diverse marine life.

Vilanculos and the Gateway to the Archipelago

Continue north along the EN1 to Vilanculos, a lively coastal town that is the gateway to the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago. The drive here can be long and occasionally rough, but the reward is well worth it. Vilanculos itself has plenty to offer: markets, beachside cafes, and water sports including kitesurfing and sailing. From here, arrange a boat transfer to Benguerra Island, home to some of the finest Mozambique holiday resorts. Among the many options to choose from, Anantara Bazaruto Resort stands out as an exceptional retreat offering a luxurious stay for an affordable price. The journey to Bazaruto marks a transition, from the rugged independence of the road to island escapes. Yet, it never feels disjointed.

Exploring the Bazaruto Archipelago

Once on the islands, the pace slows. Local guides will take you by dhow to uninhabited islets where you can snorkel in clear shallows or picnic under the shade of casuarina trees. The Bazaruto Marine Reserve protects dugongs, sea turtles, and hundreds of fish species. Between July and November, expect frequent sightings of dolphins and humpback whales. For those interested in cultural interaction, visiting the island’s fishing villages offers insight into daily life and the importance of conservation. This blend of eco-tourism and local immersion is part of what makes this region such a compelling stop on your journey.

Barra to Pemba: For the Intrepid Traveller

If time allows, extend your road trip further north. Beyond the well-trodden Vilanculos circuit, the route to Pemba and the Quirimbas Archipelago is for those with a sense of adventure. Roads are more remote, infrastructure is more basic, but the rewards include untouched beaches, rich Swahili heritage, and the chance to feel truly off-grid. In places like Ibo Island, time slows almost to a halt. Crumbling forts and ancient coral-stone houses tell trade, conquest, and survival stories.