MileHacker Logo
Your Maputo Packing Guide

Your Maputo Packing Guide

Mozambique

Dry Season Attire May-October

This period offers cooler, less humid weather. Pack lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or quick-drying synthetics. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants protect against sun during the day and mosquitoes in the evenings.

Items

  • Lightweight fabrics (cotton, linen, synthetics).
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants (Long-sleeved shirts for sun/mosquito protection).
  • Light jacket, fleece, or sweater for cooler evenings (especially June-Aug).

Wet Season Attire Nov-April

Expect hot, humid, and rainy conditions. Opt for quick-drying materials. High humidity means clothes may take longer to dry if washed, so pack enough changes. Loose-fitting clothing is more comfortable.

Rain & Humidity Gear

Footwear Essentials

Everyday Wear

Comfortable, breathable Sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes are ideal for general wear in the heat.

Casual, warm weather

City Walking

Closed-toe shoes or light Sneakers are suitable for walking on uneven pavements and for mosquito protection in evenings.

Urban exploration

Excursions

For nature reserves or unpaved roads (Maputo Special Reserve, Ponta do Ouro), Sturdy walking shoes or Light hiking shoes are recommended.

Adventure, rugged terrain

Essential Documents for Your Journey

Important Travel Documents

Keeping your important documents organized and accessible is a main aspect of travel planning. Secure both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport: Valid for 6+ months, 3 blank pages.
  • Visa Documentation: E-visa printout or physical visa.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Emergency contacts, policy numbers.
  • International Driving Permit: For driving a rental car.
  • Yellow Fever Certificate: Required from at-risk countries.
  • Printed/Digital Copies: Flights, accommodation, tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: Family, bank, embassy, insurance.
  • Photocopies/Scans: Passport, visa, credit cards (stored separately).

Technology & Connectivity

Power & Devices

Mozambique uses Type C, F, and M sockets (220-240V, 50Hz). A TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter with surge protection comes highly recommended. A Voltage converter might be needed for some devices.

Charging Essentials

Staying Connected

Maputo uses GSM networks. Your mobile phone should be unlocked to use a local SIM card (Vodacom, Movitel, TM Celcom). VPN services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN can be useful. Consider an eSIM from Airalo for convenience.

Helpful Apps

  • Google Maps (offline Maputo download).
  • Google Translate (Portuguese offline pack).
  • Txopela or Bolt (ride-sharing apps).

Data & Security Measures

Cloud Storage

Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox to back up photos and digital copies of documents.

Digital Documents

Store scans of passport, visa, and tickets on your phone and in cloud storage for easy retrieval.

Electronic Retailers

For camera gear or electronics, consider B&H Photo before your trip.

Health & Personal Care

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit for common travel ailments and specific Mozambican health concerns.

Kit Contents

Health Precautions

Carry an adequate supply of all your prescription medications in original packaging with clear labels. Bring a copy of the prescription and a doctor's note for controlled substances. Pack these in your carry-on luggage.

Protection & Remedies

Wellness & Comfort Items

Over-the-Counter Remedies

  • Common cold or flu symptom remedies.
  • Motion sickness pills (if prone to it).
  • Antacids for indigestion.

Personal Hygiene

  • Specific brands of toiletries you prefer.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Female hygiene products (if particular about brands).

Activity-Specific Gear

Water Activities

For snorkeling or diving in Inhaca Island or Ponta do Ouro, bringing personal gear is comfortable.

Exploration Gear

For visits to Maputo Special Reserve, additional items improve your experience.

  • Lightweight Binoculars for wildlife spotting.
  • A comfortable daypack for water, snacks, camera.
  • Lens cleaning kit and protective covers for camera.

Outdoor Comfort

Enjoying Maputo's beaches and outdoor spaces becomes more relaxing with a few comfort items.

Equipment Decisions

What to Rent

  • Full sets of snorkel and dive gear are available at coastal dive centers.
  • Safari vehicles: Joining an organized tour or hiring a 4x4 with a driver/guide is recommended.
  • Bicycles: Some guesthouses offer rentals for local use, but general city rentals are limited.
  • Consider renting for single-use or bulky items.

What to Bring

  • Your own mask for snorkeling for comfort and hygiene.
  • Personal camera and photography accessories.
  • Compact daypack for daily excursions.
  • Specialized gear if pursuing a specific hobby.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort

A few additional items greatly improve your comfort during travel and transitions.

Enhanced Journey

  • Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for flights/bus.
  • A good book or downloaded entertainment.
  • Headphones.
  • Comfortable socks for long journeys.

Security & Convenience

Prioritize securing your belongings and staying prepared for daily activities.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Reduce plastic waste, stay hydrated.

Portable Cutlery

For street food and local meals.

Fabric Shopping Bag

Avoid single-use plastic bags.

Digital Entertainment

Reduce paper waste from physical books.

Items Difficult to Find Locally

Specialty Medications

  • High-quality insect repellent (DEET/Picaridin).
  • Specific brands of over-the-counter medications.
  • Certain personal hygiene products.

Travel Gear

  • Quality daypack for excursions.
  • Specialized camera equipment.
  • Comfortable hiking shoes if needed for specific activities.

Packing Wisdom

Pack a small, zippered bag for dirty laundry. This helps keep your clean clothes separate and organized throughout your trip.

Consider packing items that can be layered easily to adapt to changing temperatures and cultural settings.