Last updated: 02 February 2026
As of early February 2026, ongoing flooding continues to affect large parts of Mozambique, with significant implications for tourism, overland travel and access to popular destinations. While conditions are gradually stabilising in some areas, travel disruptions, safety risks and infrastructure damage remain widespread, particularly in southern and central regions.
Should you travel to Mozambique right now?
Mozambique remains open to international tourism, and commercial flights are operating. However, non-essential travel to flood-affected provinces is strongly discouraged at present. Travellers should only proceed with confirmed arrangements, flexible itineraries and comprehensive travel insurance that covers weather-related disruption and medical evacuation.
Current flooding situation in Mozambique
Prolonged heavy rainfall during the current wet season has caused extensive flooding across southern and central Mozambique, affecting provinces including Gaza, Maputo and Sofala. River systems remain swollen, and low-lying areas continue to experience inundation.
While water levels have begun to recede in selected corridors, large sections of road and public infrastructure remain damaged, and recovery is expected to take weeks rather than days.
Impact on tourism and travel
Road access and transport
Severe flooding has cut or damaged major sections of the EN1 (N1) highway, Mozambique's primary north–south transport corridor. This has disrupted overland travel between Maputo, Gaza and central regions, affecting tourism transfers, self-drive itineraries and supply chains.
- Road repairs are underway, but access remains unstable and subject to sudden closures
- Secondary roads and bridges are also affected in flood-prone areas
- Rail connections in parts of the region have been disrupted
Self-drive travel through affected regions is not recommended at this time.
Coastal and beach destinations
Flooding has disrupted access to coastal tourism areas, including popular beach destinations in Maputo Province. While some resorts and lodges remain operational:
- Transfers may require long detours or altered routes
- Travel times are often extended
- Supplies and staffing may be limited due to road access challenges
Travellers should confirm access routes and resort status directly before travelling.
National parks and nature tourism
Low-lying conservation areas and parks in flood-affected regions face:
- Flooded internal roads and tracks
- Restricted or suspended activities
- Limited emergency access in remote areas
Visits to national parks in southern and central Mozambique should be postponed until official access confirmations are issued.
Accommodation, services and utilities
Hospitality operators in affected areas report:
- Staffing shortages
- Supply chain disruptions
- Intermittent water and power outages
Urban centres such as Maputo City may still offer accommodation and services, but conditions vary significantly by neighbourhood and access route.
Health and safety considerations
Flooding has created elevated health and safety risks, including:
- Increased risk of water-borne diseases due to contaminated water and sanitation challenges
- Limited access to healthcare services in rural or flooded areas
- Displaced wildlife, including crocodiles entering flooded towns and peri-urban zones, posing unusual safety risks
Travellers should avoid floodwaters entirely and follow local safety advisories at all times.
Is Mozambique still open to tourists?
Yes. Mozambique is not closed to tourism, and international flights continue to operate. However, access and safety - not policy - are the primary constraints at present. Travel remains highly location-specific and requires careful planning.
Short-term outlook for tourism
- Floodwaters are slowly receding in some transport corridors
- Road and bridge repairs are progressing in phases
- Tourism recovery will depend on:
- Infrastructure rehabilitation
- Safety assessments
- Stabilisation of weather conditions
Some destinations outside the worst-affected flood zones, particularly in northern Mozambique, may be accessible with caution.
Mozambique flooding: travel advisory summary
- Flights: Operating normally
- Road travel: Severely disrupted in southern and central regions
- Beach resorts: Some open, but access varies
- National parks: Restricted or temporarily inaccessible
- Health & safety: Elevated risks remain
- Overall advice: Travel only with confirmed arrangements and flexible plans
Final word
Mozambique remains a compelling destination, but this is not a normal travel period. Travellers are advised to delay non-essential trips to flood-affected areas and monitor official updates closely. We will continue to publish verified tourism and travel updates as the situation evolves.
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