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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Mozambique

Wet/Hot Season Nov-Apr Attire

This period brings warmth and high humidity. Pack lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying clothing. Fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics are ideal.

Clothing Essentials

Dry/Cooler Season May-Oct Attire

Days stay warm and sunny, but evenings feel cooler with lower humidity. Pack lightweight clothing for daytime activities.

Wardrobe Considerations

  • Add light Long-sleeved shirts and pants for evenings (warmth and mosquito protection).
  • Swimwear remains a daily must.
  • A light sweater or Shawl can be comforting for cooler evenings or boat trips.

Footwear Recommendations

Beach & Casual

Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for beach wear, walking around the resort, and general casual use.

Ideal for sand and poolside.

Water Activities

Water shoes or Reef shoes are highly recommended for protection against sharp coral, rocks, or sea urchins when wading or snorkeling.

Safeguard feet in shallow water.

Exploring & Walking

For exploring sand dunes or nature walks, Comfortable walking shoes or light Sneakers are good. Closed-toe shoes are advisable for hot sand.

Comfort for longer treks.

Essential Documents

Useful Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and secure supports stress-free travel.

  • Original Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure, with 3 blank pages.
  • Visa Documentation: Printed copies of visa approval or payment receipts for on-arrival visas.
  • Yellow Fever Certificate: Original certificate if from/transiting risk countries.
  • Doctor's Note for Medications: Essential for prescription medications, especially controlled substances.
  • Travel Insurance: Digital and printed copies of policy, emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit: (If applicable) along with national license for mainland car rental.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flights, accommodation, transfers, tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family, embassy, lodge, and insurance emergency lines.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Mozambique operates on 220-240V. Main plug types are Type C and Type F. Some lodges may use Type M (South African style).

Electronic Needs

  • A Universal Travel Adapter with multiple plug types is highly recommended.
  • Mobile phone compatibility: GSM network. Unlock your phone for a local SIM card (Vodacom often has the best coverage).
  • A high-capacity Portable Power Bank for charging devices on the go is very useful.

Photography & Apps

Capture the stunning marine life and landscapes of the archipelago.

Gear & Digital Tools

Recommended Apps & Protection

Navigation & Translation

Download Google Maps for offline use. Maps.me offers detailed offline maps. Google Translate with offline Portuguese language pack. NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.

Currency & Local Services

XE Currency for up-to-date exchange rates. Inquire with your lodge for any specific resort apps. Airalo for eSIMs.

Electronic Protection

A Dry Bag is essential to protect all your electronics from water and sand during boat trips and beach excursions.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked Personal first aid kit and appropriate health items prepare you for common issues.

Kit Contents

Medications & Protection

Bring enough of your prescription medications, plus an extra supply. Keep all medications in original packaging with labels.

Health Necessities

Specialized Health & Local Availability

Altitude & Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness medication is relevant for boat transfers and sea excursions. Take it before boarding if prone to seasickness.
  • Hand sanitizer and personal hygiene essentials may be difficult or expensive to find locally.
  • A LifeStraw Personal Water Filter or Water purification tablets can be useful for remote areas.

Over-the-Counter & Personal Items

  • Bring cold and flu remedies, antacids, laxatives, and eye drops.
  • Rely on Bottled water or lodge-purified water; do not drink tap water.
  • Bring preferred brands of toiletries, specific hair products, feminine hygiene products, or contact lens solution.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling & Diving

For water activities, quality gear makes a difference.

  • Bring your own Snorkel Mask for a comfortable fit.
  • Fins are usually part of the tour package.
  • Certified divers might bring their own Dive computer and regulator.
  • BCDs and tanks are usually part of dive center services.

Fishing & Beach Gear

For angling and beach relaxation, a few items contribute to comfort.

  • Specialized fishing gear can be brought, but charters typically supply high-quality equipment.
  • A Quick-drying beach towel offers convenience.
  • A good Dry Bag for electronics on boat trips offers protection.
  • Kayaks and SUPs are almost always available at lodges.

Hiking & General Outdoors

While not a main focus, some items for land exploration are useful.

  • No specific unique items for Bazaruto beyond marine activity gear.
  • Focus remains on water-based activities and enjoying the natural environment.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are good for sand dunes and island walks.
  • Light, breathable clothing.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Items to Rent Commonly Available at Lodges

  • Scuba diving BCDs, tanks, and often full sets of gear.
  • Fins for snorkeling/diving.
  • Kayaks and Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs).
  • High-quality fishing rods and reels for charters.

Items to Consider Bringing Personal Preference/Quality

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These additional items contribute to your comfort and security during your journey and stay.

Traveler's Aids

Sustainable Travel Items

Embrace responsible tourism with these reusable items, important in a fragile marine environment.

Eco-Conscious Packing

  • A Reusable Water Bottle to reduce plastic waste; many lodges offer refills.
  • A Reusable Shopping Bag for purchases in Vilanculos markets.
  • A small set of Reusable utensils for street food or market snacks.
  • Any items difficult or expensive to purchase locally, like high-quality sunscreen or specific medical supplies.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Minimizes plastic waste in fragile marine ecosystems.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protects delicate coral reefs from harmful chemicals.

Reusable Bag

For shopping in local markets, avoiding single-use plastics.

Portable Utensils

Reduces reliance on disposable cutlery when eating out.

Destination-Specific Items

Marine Exploration

Sun & Insect Protection

  • High-SPF Reef-Safe Sunscreen is needed for intense tropical sun.
  • A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses offer facial protection.
  • Effective Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin) for mosquito areas.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light. Most luxury lodges offer laundry service, reducing the amount of clothing you need to bring. Soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are often preferable for boat or small aircraft transfers.

Consider packing cubes to keep your belongings organized and maximize space within your luggage.