Hostels in Mozambique

The Republic of Mozambique is a tropical country located in southeast Africa. It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the east, Tanzania to the north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, Zimbabwe to the west, South Africa to the southwest, and Swaziland to the south. Its largest city is also its capital, namely Maputo.

Mozambique became Portugal’s colony in 1505. It changed ownership, belonging to Somalia and then again to Portugal, until it gained its independence in 1975. Soon thereafter, the country was subjected to a civil war which lasted from 1977 until 1992. In 1994, the first multi-party, democratic elections took place in Mozambique. Peace lasted until 2013 when the nation was subjected to an insurgency by RENAMO. Travelers to the country are advised to check on the political situation of any region before visiting.

Mozambique is one of the most underdeveloped and poor countries in the world. Its economy depends mostly on agriculture, although other sectors such as tourism are currently growing. The official language is Portuguese although there are many other native languages also spoken among the over 24 million inhabitants.

Fortunate for the budget traveler, numerous hostels are scattered around the 309,500 square mile (801,590 square kilometer) area. The largest number of hostels can be found in Maputo as well as Vilanculos and Tofo. You also easily can find a hostel in cities like Nampula, Chimoio, Quissico (also known as Zavala), and Inhambane. As an alternative, there are budget motels, inns, and campgrounds where you can sleep for a relatively low price as well.

The hostels in Mozambique tend to be located close to tourist attractions. Prices can vary, but there are very affordable options available. Most of these accommodations are basic, clean, secure, and have friendly, helpful staff members. Many offer included breakfasts, onsite restaurants, wifi for free or a minimal fee, mosquito nets, fans, and a communal kitchen.

If you have chosen to settle down in Maputo, you should add FEIMA (Feira de Artesanato, Flores, e Gastronomica) to your itinerary. This fair presents plants, art, and food for sale. Live music with handmade instruments is another feature. At the end of the month, you might get to enjoy an entire food fair. Be sure to browse through the handmade dresses, wooden sculptures, jewelry, bags, intricately carved tables, and colorful plates with safari motifs. It is the perfect place to acquire some unique souvenirs.

If you are staying in a hostel in Vilanculos, you can visit Machilla Magic, a crafts store featuring the work of local artists. This venue allows the artisans to make money in a professional setting. Your purchase of any of the products benefits the local economy. There are baskets, drums, wooden figures, bracelets, lamp shades, platters, domino sets, hammocks, and many other useful as well as beautiful items for purchase. It is the ideal place for guilt-free shopping.

For all the beach lovers visiting Mozambique, Praia do Tofo is the ideal spot to look for a hostel. There is a beautiful, clean beach with warm water and perfect waves. You will see boats and restaurants along the sand where you can rent a gazebo or enjoy a horse ride. Surfing and kayaking are among the water sports available. Across the street, you can spend some leisure time roaming around the market of this coastal village. At night, you are just steps away from your accommodations situated right along the water. What better way is there to soak in the sounds, smells, and ambiance of this tropical paradise?

Handwritten by local expert for Mozambique hostels Jakob Lombardi