Mozambique Tourist Health And Safety Guide

The authorities in Mozambique require Yellow fever vaccination for travellers coming from endemic areas.  Vaccinations against cholera, tetanus and typhus are advisable. Malaria, bilharzias, AIDS/ HIV, rabies, hepatitis, cholera and gastrointestinal infections pose the other health risks in Mozambique. Prophylactic treatment for malaria should be started well before arrival in Mozambique. All water used for washing/drinking should be treated with a water purification tablet if it is not bottled drinking water. Tap water should be avoided at all costs, as must raw salads and fresh fruits that can’t be peeled. Apart from the main cities of Maputo and Beira, the medical facilities are sadly lacking and medicines are not easily available. It is recommended you carry a supply of medicines in a first aid kit on the advise of a GP. For any medical care, money will be demanded ahead of treatment, so travel with a comprehensive medical insurance that covers sundry expenses including med-evac.  

Safety is a major concern for travellers to Mozambique. It is recommended that all visitors update the current safety status with their embassies. The country is only recently through with a long civil war and certain areas remain unsafe for travel. Another constant threat to traveler’s wellbeing comes from the anti-personnel land mines. More than one million unexploded antipersonnel mines still dot Mozambique, so care must be exercised when driving around. Known minefields are usually marked PEREGO, or with red and white tape, but if in doubt, seek local advice first. Crime remains a serious concern for residents and visitors alike. Overpowering poverty levels and the recent floods have led to a steep rise in incidents of armed robberies and thefts. Carjacking, highway banditry is as common in urban areas as in rural areas and travelling alone or after dark is particularly risky.