OVERVIEW

Located on the southeastern coast of Africa, Mozambique has survived a violent civil war and terrible floods, and is emerging from a ruinous past to recover its name as one of the jewels of Africa.

With 1500 miles of palm-fringed coastline, it is washed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and embellished with long white beaches, excellent coral reefs and strings of pristine islands. The enchanting Bazaruto archipelago, off the coast of Inhambane province, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The islands boast superb fishing, fascinating water sports, shaded beaches, good surf, and a marine park offering diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Just off the coast of Maputo is the popular Inhaca Island, which has extensive coral reefs, a fabulous maritime museum and historical lighthouse. Most of the wildlife reserves are located in the central and southern parts of the country, with the exception of the important Niassa Reserve on the northern Tanzania border, and although largely destroyed during the civil war, they are currently being restocked and improved with large populations of elephant, buffalo and antelope. North of Maputo there are beautiful beaches and a number of centres that offer some of the best fishing in the world.

Mozambican people mainly hold indigenous beliefs and their official language is Portuguese. The country's best weather occurs between June and August. Mozambique's currency is the Metical.