When is the best time to visit Mozambique?

The all-round best time to visit Mozambique is from May to November. That's because Moz is tropical and hot in the summer, and the winter season has cooler temperatures and lower humidity. There is also less chance of rain and catching malaria.

Seasons in Mozambique

The rainy summer season, from December to April, is characterized by brief, vigorous afternoon downpours, and very hot weather. 

Avoid the cyclone season in January and February as torrential rain is common during this time. 

Mozambique seasons, Inhambane

Temperatures vary between 16 and 32 degrees Centigrade throughout the year, which appears to be quite moderate, but humidity is frequently as high as 70%, and remember, anything over 50% is considered uncomfortable. Humidity peaks around February, and the humidity is higher as one heads North, where temperatures also soar. 

Best time to visit Mozambique for a wildlife safari

Much depends on the reason/s that you are going on holiday. If you are visiting Mozambique to go on a wildlife safari, the best time to go is during the dry months of August and September, because this is when the bush thins out and animals gather at rivers and waterholes.

If you're taking the safari option, Mozambique combines well with the weather of its neighbouring countries, and here, once again, winter is the best time to hit the wildlife parks. While you're in Mozambique you can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, quad biking, scuba diving in places like Praia do Tofo and ocean safaris with whale sharks. 

Mozambique diving - whale shark

The best time to visit Mozambique for diving

If you are going to Mozambique to dive, the best times are from April to June and September to November, as the water is clear and calm, creating good visibility conditions.

Travellers should bear in mind that global warming is changing weather patterns, which unfortunately does make them less predictable than they were. It's advisable to not make any sea voyages during the cyclone season (Jan and Feb), and the beaches will likely be wet!

Best time visit Mozambique

The most popular time to visit Mozambique

Most of Mozambique's visitors are South Africans, who generally arrive in the South over the Christmas holidays because that's when the kids (and parents) get some time off - and they keep coming, and having a great time on the beaches, even though its close to the hottest period of this tropical paradise. 

Mozambique Bazaruto holiday

The best time to visit Mozambique, in short

The best time to visit Mozambique is during the Southern Hemisphere's winter - from May to September. If you are looking for a baking hot summer destination, October to December are good too. December is a popular season though, so book in advance and prepare for some summer holiday crowds.

Pangane beach, Mozambique

Late March and April are also good times to visit Mozambique for those wanting to dodge the crowds, cyclones and very hottest months.