Mozambique Highlights REPUBLIC OF MOZAMBIQUE GENERAL INFORMATION VIDEO COMPILATION PHOTO GALLERY GENERAL INFORMATION Mozambique Situated on the southeast coast of Africa, it is best known for its palm-fringed coastline, pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear waters and rich cultural heritage.For Overlanders willing to venture off the beaten path, Mozambique offers an unforgettable experience. Travelling around Mozambique can be an adventure in itself. Although the country has approximately 30,000 kilometres of roads, most remain unpaved, making travel especially difficult after heavy rain, something we experienced firsthand during our 2010 trip. Overlanders should be prepared for slow journeys, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The major tourist highlights of Mozambique are centred around its spectacular coastline, marine life, islands, national parks and fascinating history. The Bazaruto Archipelago is Mozambique’s premier island destination. This protected marine park is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand dunes, and excellent diving and snorkelling. Tofo Beach is one of Africa’s top diving destinations. The warm Indian Ocean attracts whale sharks throughout much of the year, while manta rays, colourful coral reefs and seasonal humpback whales make it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. For wildlife lovers, Gorongosa National Park is one of Africa’s great conservation success stories. After being devastated during the civil war, the park has undergone remarkable restoration, and is once again home to elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, antelope and an impressive variety of birdlife. Ilha de Moçambique, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the capital of Portuguese East Africa, the island features centuries-old forts, churches, colonial buildings and narrow streets that reflect its African, Arab and Portuguese heritage. The Quirimbas Archipelago consists of dozens of idyllic islands with untouched beaches, coral reefs and traditional fishing villages. The southern coastline is home to Ponta do Ouro, It is also a popular destination for South Africans who cross the border to go scuba diving with sharks and colourful reefs. One of the country’s more unusual features is its national flag, which prominently displays an AK-47 rifle, making it one of the few national flags in the world to feature a modern firearm. Wildlife conservation has also faced significant challenges. Poaching became a major problem following years of war and poverty. The Great Limpopo Transfrontier National Park, established in 2002, reintroduced around 300 rhinos, but during our visit in 2010 only a handful remained, and by our return in 2015 the last rhinos had also fallen victim to poaching. Despite these challenges, Mozambique’s natural beauty is truly spectacular. Endless beaches with soft white sand, turquoise waters, colourful coral reefs, mangrove forests, freshwater lagoons and tropical islands create a paradise for beach lovers, divers and snorkellers. The country’s warm hospitality and unique blend of African, Portuguese and coastal influences add to its charm. Mozambique is not always the easiest destination to explore, but for adventurous travellers and overlanders who enjoy discovering authentic places, it is a country that rewards determination with unforgettable scenery, fascinating history and genuine cultural experiences. The country’s recent history has not been easy. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Mozambique was devastated by poor governance and a long civil war that lasted from 1977 to 1992 between the FRELIMO government and the RENAMO rebel movement. It is estimated that around one million people lost their lives, 1.7 million fled to neighbouring countries, and millions more were displaced. Since peace was restored in the mid-1990s, Mozambique has steadily rebuilt itself, although it remains one of the world’s poorest nations. During our first visit in 2010, locals spoke optimistically about the country’s economic progress, yet many also shared that their incomes had barely changed while the cost of living continued to rise. Chronic child malnutrition and HIV/AIDS remained significant challenges. At the same time, there was great hope that the newly discovered gas reserves could transform Mozambique’s future. 2. VIDEO COMPILATION A. MOZAMBIQUE 20210 & 2015 https://www.doubledutchworldsafari.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Mozambique-2010-2015-overland-220MB-1.mp4 3. PHOTO GALLERY (Under Construction)