Mozambique Safaris
Safari Holidays In Mozambique
Mozambique isn’t your typical safari destination — and that’s exactly what makes it special. This southeast African gem blends raw wilderness, vibrant culture, and an idyllic coastline to create safari holidays unlike anywhere else. With vast national parks, rich marine life, and far fewer tourists, it’s ideal for travellers looking to escape the crowds and experience Africa at its most untamed.
Whether you’re watching elephants drift across the floodplains of Gorongosa or snorkelling with whale sharks in the Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique safari holidays offer something truly unique. It’s a land where safari meets sea, wildlife meets culture, and adventure meets quiet reflection.
A Selection of our Mozambique Safari Holidays
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Safari Lodge
Location
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Location
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When is the Best Time to Go on Mozambique Safari Holidays?
The best time to visit Mozambique for safari is during the dry season from May to October, when wildlife viewing is easiest, roads are passable, and coastal areas are sunny and comfortable. This is the prime time to visit national parks like Gorongosa and Zinave, and also perfect for combining safari with the beach.
The wet season (November to April) brings lush green scenery and dramatic skies, especially inland, but some parks may be harder to access due to rain. However, it's still a great time for marine activities like diving, especially along the southern coast and offshore islands.
What Wildlife Can You See on Mozambique Safari Holidays?
While not as well-known as its neighbours, Mozambique’s national parks are making a remarkable comeback. In Gorongosa National Park, you’ll find elephants, hippos, lions, antelope, and an ever-growing diversity of species thanks to successful rewilding efforts. Zinave National Park and Banhine National Park are quieter still, but rich with birdlife and plains game.
In coastal reserves like Maputo Special Reserve, you may see elephants, crocodiles, and flamingos just a short drive from the beach. Mozambique is also a marine paradise — from dolphins and dugongs to manta rays and whale sharks, its Indian Ocean waters offer unforgettable wildlife encounters beyond the savannah.
Top Safari Destinations in Mozambique
Despite being less developed than some safari regions, Mozambique’s parks offer a sense of discovery and solitude you’ll rarely find elsewhere.
Gorongosa National Park
Often called Africa’s greatest restoration story, Gorongosa is a shining example of conservation done right. Located in central Mozambique, it’s home to elephants, lions, antelope, and over 400 species of birds — all set against lush floodplains, savannah, and rainforest.
Zinave National Park
In southern Mozambique, Zinave is undergoing one of Africa’s largest wildlife reintroduction projects. Visitors can now spot elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and zebra, along with diverse birdlife in this peaceful, undeveloped park.
Maputo Special Reserve
Just a few hours from the capital, this coastal reserve offers the rare combination of beach and bush. Expect elephants, flamingos, monkeys, and the occasional hippo — all within reach of pristine Indian Ocean beaches.
Banhine National Park
Part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, Banhine is remote, seasonal, and a birder’s dream. This park is perfect for seasoned travellers who want to explore uncharted territory and support long-term conservation.
The Bazaruto & Quirimbas Archipelagos
These island chains are marine national parks, offering reef dives, dhow sailing, and dolphin-spotting. While not safaris in the traditional sense, they are the ideal coastal counterpart to any wildlife adventure.
The Types of Mozambique Safari Holidays That We Offer
Awake in the Wild creates Mozambique safari holidays that blend adventure, discovery, and cultural depth — with options suited to all types of travellers.
- Game Drive Safaris – Explore rewilded parks like Gorongosa and Zinave with expert guides and custom 4x4 vehicles.
- Walking Safaris – Enjoy intimate bush walks in emerging parks, often guided by rangers and conservation staff.
- Coastal & Marine Safaris – Spot dolphins, dugongs, and whale sharks off the shores of the Bazaruto or Quirimbas islands.
- Beach and Bush Combos – Combine inland wildlife experiences with time on Mozambique’s stunning coastline.
- Tailor-Made Adventures – Whether you’re diving, birdwatching, or simply escaping the crowds, we’ll design the right trip for you.
Why Book Your Mozambique Safari Holiday with Awake in the Wild?
We love showing travellers a different side of Africa — and Mozambique is one of its best-kept secrets.
With Awake in the Wild, you’ll go beyond the brochures to experience conservation in action, cultural depth, and wilderness that still feels wild.
We work with local partners, conservation teams, and grassroots projects to create travel that supports the future of Mozambique’s wildlife and communities.
Whether you're looking for a raw, remote experience or something balanced with coastal calm, we’ll help you design a trip that feels right for you.
And because we’re independent and financially protected (through PTS and ATOL), you can expect honest advice, personal support, and peace of mind from the moment you get in touch.
Where to Stay on a Mozambique Safari
Accommodation in Mozambique ranges from simple tented bush camps in remote national parks to beach lodgeswith dhow views and sea breezes.
Most properties are small-scale, sustainable, and locally run — giving your stay a personal feel that large lodges rarely match.
In the parks, you’ll find rustic eco-camps and mobile safaris ideal for adventurous travellers. On the coast, lodges offer everything from castaway-style barefoot luxury to eco-cabins tucked into the dunes.
Wherever you stay, the focus is on location, atmosphere, and connecting with nature.
Combine Your Safari With...
A Mozambique safari holiday pairs beautifully with other destinations in Southern and East Africa:
- South Africa’s Kruger National Park – Just across the border, Kruger offers exceptional Big Five safaris and easy overland or fly-in access.
- Malawi’s Lake Escapes – Add time on the water with a relaxing lakeside retreat in neighbouring Malawi.
- Mozambique’s Beaches & Islands – End your safari with dhow sailing, reef diving, and sun-soaked downtime in the Bazaruto or Quirimbas Archipelagos.
- Eswatini or Maputo City Break – Combine your safari with a cultural stopover in Mozambique’s capital or neighbouring Eswatini.
Travelling from the UK to Mozambique
Although there are no direct flights from the UK to Mozambique, reaching this vibrant coastal destination is still straightforward with one or two well-timed connections. Most travellers fly from London Heathrow or Manchester via major hubs like Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, or Doha, arriving into Maputo, Vilankulo, or Pemba depending on your safari and beach itinerary.
Flight durations range from 14 to 20 hours depending on layovers, but many of our travellers combine Mozambique with a neighbouring country like South Africa, Tanzania, or Zimbabwe — turning one long-haul journey into a diverse, multi-country adventure.
Our team will take care of all your flight planning and transfers, ensuring your journey to Mozambique is smooth and stress-free from the moment you book.
Start Planning Your Mozambique Safari Holiday
Ready to explore one of Africa’s most exciting emerging safari destinations? Whether you’re drawn to rewilded parks, island escapes, or the thrill of travelling somewhere few others do, Awake in the Wild is here to help.
Call us today or complete our enquiry form to start planning your tailor-made Mozambique safari holiday.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to Mozambique from the UK?
Yes, UK passport holders need a visa for Mozambique. This can usually be obtained online or on arrival, but we recommend applying in advance for peace of mind. We'll provide the latest guidance when you book with us.
When is the best time to visit Mozambique for safari?
The dry season (May to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing and travel across national parks. The wet season (November to April) is ideal for diving and marine life, but inland areas may be less accessible due to rain.
What kind of wildlife can I see on a Mozambique safari?
Mozambique is home to elephants, lions, antelope, hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Thanks to major conservation efforts, parks like Gorongosa and Zinave are rewilding rapidly. Along the coast, you might also spot dolphins, whale sharks, and manta rays.
Is Mozambique safe for travellers?
Most parts of Mozambique are safe for tourists, especially when travelling with a reputable operator. Some regions have travel advisories, so we carefully design itineraries that prioritise safety and comfort. We only work with trusted, local partners.
Is Mozambique a good choice for first-time safari travellers?
Yes — particularly for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. The parks are less crowded than in neighbouring countries, and the combination of safari and coast is ideal for a balanced, immersive trip.
What types of safari experiences are available?
You can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and boat-based wildlife viewing in certain parks. Coastal and marine safaris are also a highlight — with reef dives, dhow cruises, and ocean wildlife encounters.
Where are the best places to go on safari in Mozambique?
Top safari destinations include Gorongosa National Park, Zinave, Maputo Special Reserve, and Banhine. For marine experiences, the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos are unforgettable.
Can I combine my safari with a beach holiday?
Absolutely — Mozambique is famous for its beautiful Indian Ocean coastline. You can relax on Diani Beach, sail between islands, or snorkel coral reefs, all while staying at eco-lodges or island hideaways.
What kind of accommodation is available?
Mozambique offers everything from basic eco-camps in national parks to boutique beach lodges. We’ll help match you with options that suit your style and budget — whether you’re going rustic, remote, or relaxed.
How do I get to Mozambique from the UK?
There are no direct flights, but you can reach Maputo, Vilankulo, or Beira via one-stop routes through hubs like Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Addis Ababa. Flight times typically range from 14–18 hours with connections.
