Maputo Region
Home to a sprawling capital of the same name, the Maputo region is without a doubt one of Africa's most attractive towns. Situated atop a small cliff overlooking Maputo Bay, the area formerly known as Lourenzo Marques boasts a lively harbour and a host of historical landmarks. Tourists are enamoured with the wide, tree-lined avenues, which burst to life with vivid jacaranda blooms and flame trees during the spring months. A plethora of charming sidewalk cafes create a distinctive “holiday” vibe, and from this vantage point visitors can enjoy the outlook onto the colourful streets.
Although first discovered by explorers in the 16th century, Maputo was only officially founded two centuries later. By the end the 19th century, the region had experienced a major population boom as a result of a railway line connecting it to Pretoria. Nowadays, not much of the city’s original architecture remains; however, one of Maputo’s greatest tourist attractions is the Portuguese Tatres, a sturdy fort built in 1787. A more recently constructed landmark is the Mousink de Albuquerque Square in the centre of town, an impressive sight that is certainly not to be missed when visiting the region.
Maputo is also renowned for its fascinating skyline distinguishable by the colonial Portuguese architecture dotting the city. Once regarded as one of the most fashionable cities in Africa, the region has developed a unique identity, following decades of colonialism and, later, war. Today, Maputo is a lively, bustling place with colourful markets, intriguing structural designs and a wealth of cultural offerings. The city is easily accessible by road and air and is a good base from which to begin an adventure through Mozambique.
As a result of the high influx of tourists into the region, there are many upmarket accommodation venues to be found in Maputo. A number of older hotels have been restored to their original splendour, as have several lodges, guest houses and backpackers’ hostels. Visitors will have no difficulty finding appropriate lodgings for their time in Maputo.
