Maputo, Mozambique

• Maputo is Mozambique's coastal capital with Portuguese colonial buildings, jacaranda trees, and a slower pace than most African cities. The climate is humid and warm throughout the year.
• The seafood is good and reasonably priced compared to Europe. In upscale areas like Polana Cimento and Sommerschield, restaurant staff usually speak English. Elsewhere, you'll need Portuguese.
• Crime is a serious issue here. Armed robbery, mugging, and assault target foreigners regularly. Pickpocketing happens constantly on public transport and crowded areas. Criminals often work in groups and carry weapons.
• Stay in Polana Cimento, Sommerschield, or Coop. Use Uber, Bolt, or Yango instead of public transport or street taxis. The difference between safe and unsafe areas is extreme - you need local advice on where to go.

Portuguese is the official language. Limited English outside tourist hotels and restaurants. Emergency services (197) may have some English-speaking operators. Upscale hotels like Polana Serena and embassies can help in English.

• Shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops work fine for daytime. Cover shoulders and knees at religious sites and government buildings. Upscale restaurants expect smart casual.
• Portuguese is the official language. English only works in tourist restaurants, upscale hotels, and with embassy staff. Learn 'bom dia' (good morning), 'obrigado/a' (thank you), and 'por favor' (please). Most people don't speak English.
• Greet with a handshake and use 'Senhor' (Mr.) and 'Senhora' (Mrs.). Public displays of affection aren't well received, regardless of whether you're straight or gay.
• Bring cash - many places don't take cards. Use ATMs during the day in busy areas, never alone at night. Things move slowly here.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency (police, ambulance, fire): 112. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Uber, Bolt, and Yango all work here and are safer than street taxis. Yango is cheapest at 50-250 MZN for city rides. Viva Taxi costs more but is better for night travel. If you use a regular taxi, agree on the price before getting in.
• Don't use public buses (chapas). They're overcrowded, poorly maintained, and pickpockets work them constantly. If you have no other option, hide everything valuable and never ride after dark.
• You can walk around Polana Cimento and Sommerschield during the day. Never walk anywhere alone after dark, even in the safe neighborhoods. Use a car service at night.
• Tuktuks work for short daytime trips in busy areas - negotiate the price first. Don't use them at night or in quiet areas.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Maputo with local guides and curated experiences.