Excursion Highlights of maputo tour at Maputo

Maputo, formerly known as Lourenco Marques, named after a Portuguese explorer who landed here in 1544, is the capital of Mozambique. Most of the city's infrastructure (and architecture) was destroyed during the nearly thirty years of war that began with the Portuguese independence movement in 1962 and continued after independence in 1975. A peace treaty was signed in 1992 officially bringing the war to an end. Today the city is slowly recreating some of its former glory.

Maputo, Train Station and Central Market

Upon departing the harbour, have a brief visit to the beautiful Train Station which is definitely an architectural highlight of Maputo. It was built during 1908-10 and designed by engineer Alfredo Augusto de Lima. The remarkable bronze dome, founded specially for the building, was constructed in South Africa and its assembly was an innovation for that time. Drive to and visit the Central Market.

Maputo Fort and Indipendent Square

Proceed to the Maputo Fort, one of the most visited attractions in the city. It was originally built in 1721 and destroyed and rebuilt by many people, on several different occasions. You will have an opportunity to re-live the past, reviving old stories of corsairs and sailors.

A focal point in the city is the Praca de Independencia or Independence Square. Around it are a statue of the country's first president, Samora Machel, the gleaming white Roman Catholic cathedral, the neo-classical City Hall and the French-Mozambican cultural centre, a splendid old colonial building which has been tastefully restored and now presents art exhibitions. You will also have the opportunity to take photos of the weird and wonderful concept of a house made entirely out of iron - very impractical for the hot African summers

FEIMA Maputo Market and Local Lunch

Proceed to FEIMA Maputo market for a souvenir shopping. Transfer to a local hotel's restaurant where a scrumptious feast awaits you for lunch.

Return to the pier in the afternoon.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Fort, Feima Market, Natural History Museum, Independence Square, City Council, Cathedral, Iron House, Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.30 to 0.6 miles (about 500 metres to 1 km), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Mozambique is a third-world country and although it offers a rewarding experience, it differs markedly from South Africa in all aspects. Guests are advised that there is no formal guiding qualification required for Mozambique, therefore we support the local community by using local escorts/guides. Most of these escorts/guides have many years of experience in guiding for visiting cruise ships. The coaches are maintained, although basic, and the quality can vary considerably and may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. Whilst the roads are tarred, there are many with potholes. There are also a number of bumpy dirt roads. Some of the monuments and attractions encountered on this tour fall under the category of "military or state defence objects'. Photography of these monuments and attractions is strictly prohibited, and you may face serious problems by ignoring these rules. Therefore, please ask your tour guides before photographing such sites. Walking at the Markets is at the discretion of each guest. The tour sequence may vary.