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Maputo was the first stop of my 10-day Mozambique itinerary in March 2018. Two of my best friends live in the Mozambican capital and one of them was getting married, so this was the perfect time for a visit and a long-awaited friends reunion.
I spent a couple of days exploring the city, trying its delicious food, and just overall having a lot of fun. The result is this list of the best things to do in Maputo, Mozambique, to help you plan your own trip to this interesting, and largely underrated, African capital.
Best Things To Do in Maputo
#1 Mafalala Walking Tour
I really recommend starting your visit to Maputo by taking the Mafalala Walking Tour with IVERCA Association. This is a great introduction to the history of the Mozambican capital and the country itself. I truly learned a lot from Ivan, one of the founders of IVERCA and my guide during this amazing experience.
Mafalala is a historic neighborhood in the periphery of Maputo. During the Portuguese colonial occupation, native people from all over the country were brought here to build the new capital, Lourenço Marques. These black communities were forced to live in temporary constructions (that could be easily demolished, when their work was no longer needed) and were not allowed to cross the line that separated the “reed city” from the “concrete city” (reserved to the white), except for work.
But Mafalala is also the heart of the country. It was the birthplace of the Independence Movement and a symbol of anti-colonial resistance. Some of Mozambique’s most prominent writers, intellectuals, politicians, and athletes were born or lived here.
Today, Mafalala continues to face problems of social and economic inequality and a lack of basic infrastructure. But thanks to the work of organizations like IVERCA things are slowly starting to change.
Besides having a memorable experience, by doing a walking tour with IVERCA you’ll be directly supporting the association in its efforts to promote the socio-economic development of Mafalala and to preserve the rich culture and identity of its community.
#2 Maputo Railway Station
Considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world by several international publications, Maputo Railway Station is certainly one of the most gorgeous buildings in Maputo.
Built between 1908 and 1916, to replace the city’s first train station, Maputo Central Railway Station is a fine example of Beaux-Arts architectural style.
This still active centenary train station is one of the best-preserved buildings in the Mozambican capital. Today, it’s also home to a railway museum and hosts musical and cultural events.
You can book a walking tour of the Railway Station and other Maputo attractions here.
#3 Maputo Fortress
Built by the Portuguese as a defensive structure, the Maputo Fortress is now a military history museum and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Maputo.
Here are the remains of Ngungunhane, the last emperor of Gaza, a former state in the south of present-day Mozambique before the Portuguese colonial occupation. Ironically, a statue in memory of his captor, Mouzinho de Albuquerque, who would become one of the Portuguese governors of Mozambique, can also be seen here (the statue was originally in front of the Maputo city hall but was brought here after the country’s independence).
#4 The Iron House
The Iron House is one of the most peculiar Maputo tourist attractions.
Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this prefabricated house was created in 1892 to serve as the governor’s residence. But being made entirely of iron, it was too hot for the tropical climate of Mozambique.
The Iron House has had different locations and uses over time. Today, it can be found next to the Tunduru Gardens, on Samora Machel Avenue.
Join this Maputo city tour to visit the Iron House, Independence Square, and more.
#5 Independence Square
Maputo’s Independence Square, with its huge Samora Machel Statue, is one of the most iconic symbols of the city.
Right behind the statue of the first president of Mozambique, the impressive Maputo City Hall overlooks Samora Machel Avenue and the downtown. Classified as a cultural monument of Maputo, this Neoclassical building is the seat of the city government and can only be admired from the outside.
#6 Maputo Cathedral
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is one of my favorite buildings in Maputo.
This simple white Catholic church was built of concrete and cement, resulting in a modern and striking temple.
Unfortunately, I didn’t visit it inside, but you should definitely have a peek if you can.
You can visit Maputo Cathedral, fortress, and more, with this downtown walking tour.
#7 Tunduru Gardens
The Tunduru Gardens are the green lung of Maputo and the perfect place to unwind from the city bustle.
Located in the center of the city, close to Independence Square, this pleasant public park and botanical garden is among the mandatory places to visit in Maputo.
#8 Feima
I absolutely loved this place and almost had to be dragged out of there!
Feima is a craft, flower, and gastronomy fair, where Maputo’s artists and artisans show and sell their unique work, from batik paintings to wooden handicrafts, from straw bags to the traditional capulanas (a colorful fabric traditionally used by the Mozambican women for the most diverse purposes: as a skirt, dress, towel, baby carrier, etc.).
There’s also a restaurant serving delicious local food, and a plant and flower market.
Reserve at least a couple of hours to stroll along all the craft stalls and do some souvenir shopping. Believe me, you’ll need it.
By shopping here you can be sure that you’re buying authentic (and beautiful) Mozambican craftwork and, at the same time, contributing to the local economy.
#9 Natural History Museum
There are many reasons to visit the Natural History Museum of Maputo. The first one is its eye-catching building in Neo-Manueline style, dating back to 1911.
Then there’s its remarkable collection of embalmed African animals, including the only collection of elephant fetuses in the world.
Last but not least, in the museum gardens, you can admire two murals by the well-known Mozambican artist Malangatana.
#10 Maputo Beach
Maputo is not exactly a beach destination. There are better and more impressive beaches all over the country’s coast that you should certainly include in your Mozambique itinerary.
But while you’re here, have a peek at the lovely, white sand city beach. Stroll along the oceanfront avenue, enjoy the views over the Indian Ocean, visit the fish market, or taste some fresh coconut water from one of the many stalls alongside the avenue.
#11 Day Trip Safari in Kruger National Park
Just a 2-hour drive from Maputo, Kruger National Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa and one of the largest in the African continent. It’s also one of the most popular places in the world to go on a safari.
Being so close, you really shouldn’t miss the opportunity to do an African safari. It was definitely one of the best and most special travel experiences of my life!
You can book a day trip from Maputo to Kruger National Park here.
Or read more about my Kruger Park safari here.
#12 Eating and Drinking
This list of what to do in Maputo wouldn’t be complete without one of the best things to do in Maputo: eating and drinking.
From delicious typical dishes to ridiculously fresh seafood, the local gastronomy is definitely one of the top Maputo attractions. And don’t forget to try the local beers: Laurentina and 2M (my personal choice).
Some of my favorite places to eat and drink in Maputo are:
Dhow – a trendy restaurant, bar, and art gallery with a stunning view over Maputo Bay.
Soul Gourmet – a healthy restaurant and gourmet store that also offers yoga classes on Saturday mornings.
Mundo’s – a laid-back restaurant/sports bar, famous for the best pizzas in Maputo.
Zambi – located on the oceanfront avenue, this upscale restaurant is considered one of the best places to eat in Maputo.
Book a Maputo highlights tour with local beer tasting here.
Where to stay in Maputo
The perfect spot in Sommerchield
We’ve stayed in an amazing Airbnb in the Sommerchield district, the best residential neighborhood in Maputo. This beautiful and very comfortable apartment is perfect for a group or family vacation (we were four adults but there’s space for up to six people). It’s also conveniently located close to restaurants, coffee shops, and several banks.
Disclaimer: we were non-paying guests since my friend owns the apartment, but I wouldn’t include it here if I didn’t think it’s a great option for your stay in Maputo!
Click here for more info and booking.
Polana Serena Hotel
If you’d rather stay in a hotel, Polana Serena is one of the finest in the city. In fact, this historic building is worth visiting even if you don’t stay here. Polana Serena offers 5-star accommodation and a spa.
Click here for more info and booking.
The capital and biggest city of Mozambique is often overlooked in favor of the country’s stunning beaches and rich wildlife. But there’s a lot to do, see, and try in Maputo if you care to learn about the local culture and history.
No Mozambique travel itinerary is complete without a visit to its interesting and vibrant capital, as hopefully this list of what to see in Maputo has shown you.
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Have you been to the Mozambican capital? What would you add to this list of top things to do in Maputo, Mozambique? Share in the comments section below.
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Katja says
Thank you for such a great review!
Nailah says
It has been 16 years since I visited Maputo – I’d love to go back again and see how things have changed (or maybe stayed the same).
And that Feima area looks so cool! Will definitely put it on the list.
Brianna says
I’ve been hearing more and more great things about Mozambique! I’ve heard that Maputo can be a bit sketch, but your photos make it seem not all that bad. Plus, with so much to do it sounds like you could definitely have a great time there!