Mozambique Flood Update March 2026: National Parks, road access and tourism recovery after January floods

last updated - 26 March 2026

Mozambique continues to recover from the severe flooding of the 2025–26 rainy season, with infrastructure rehabilitation ongoing across parts of the south and centre and travel conditions still variable in affected regions. The Mozambican government has outlined a post-flood recovery and reconstruction plan valued at approximately USD 1.6 billion, according to government spokesperson and Minister of Planning and Development Salim Valá. The current rainy season (October to April) has been particularly severe, with floods during 2025–26 affecting around 1.3 million people and causing 298 deaths, especially in southern provinces. In addition, recent flooding in the wider Kruger–Limpopo system continues to disrupt cross-border travel, with Pafuri Border Post and Giriyondo Border Post remaining closed or operating under restrictions due to flood damage and elevated river levels, impacting access to Limpopo National Park. Health authorities continue to warn of elevated risks of malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases in flood-affected areas where standing water and compromised sanitation systems persist. Other major parks, including Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve, remain open, although access routes may still require verification. Major airports and coastal tourism hubs continue to operate, but travellers should allow extra time for overland travel and confirm local conditions before departure. 

last updated - 23 March 2026

Mozambique remains in a gradual recovery phase following the severe flooding of the 2025–26 rainy season, with infrastructure repairs ongoing across parts of the south and centre. Health authorities continue to highlight elevated risks of malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases in flood-affected districts due to standing water and damaged sanitation systems. For travellers, the situation at key border crossings remains fluid: Pafuri Border Post has partially reopened but may still face operational limitations, while Giriyondo Border Post remains largely closed or restricted, continuing to affect access to Limpopo National Park. Other major wildlife areas such as Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve are operating, although access routes in some regions may still require verification. Major airports and coastal tourism hubs remain open, but travellers should allow extra time for overland travel and confirm local conditions in advance. 

last updated - 19 March 2026

Mozambique remains in a recovery phase following the severe flooding of the 2025–26 rainy season, with ongoing repairs to roads, bridges and public infrastructure in parts of the south and centre. Health authorities continue to warn of elevated risks of malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases in flood-affected areas due to standing water and compromised sanitation. A key development for travellers is the continued closure of the Pafuri and Giriyondo border posts between South Africa and Mozambique due to flood damage, disrupting cross-border safari routes. Consequently, Limpopo National Park remains inaccessible, while other major parks such as Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve continue operating, albeit with some access constraints in affected areas. Major airports and coastal tourism hubs remain open, but travellers should plan alternative border crossings, allow additional travel time and verify local conditions in advance. 

last updated - 18 March 2026

Mozambique remains in a gradual recovery phase following the severe flooding of the 2025–26 rainy season, with infrastructure repairs ongoing across parts of the south and centre. Health authorities continue to highlight elevated risks of malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases in flood-affected districts due to standing water and compromised sanitation, making preventive measures essential for travellers. From a tourism perspective, key wildlife destinations such as Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve remain accessible, although some access routes may still be affected by earlier flood damage. However, Limpopo National Park remains closed due to significant infrastructure damage. Major airports and most coastal tourism hubs are operating normally, but travellers should continue to allow extra time for overland transfers, verify local conditions in advance and plan itineraries with flexibility while recovery efforts continue. 

last update – 16 March 2026 

Mozambique continues to deal with the aftermath of the severe flooding during the 2025–26 rainy season, with recovery and infrastructure repairs ongoing in several central and southern provinces. Health authorities continue to warn of elevated risks of malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases in flood-affected districts due to standing water and damaged sanitation systems, and travellers are advised to follow malaria prophylaxis guidance and strict hygiene precautions. From a tourism perspective, many of the country’s key wildlife areas remain accessible, including Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve, although some park access roads may still require condition checks following earlier flood damage. However, Limpopo National Park remains closed due to extensive flood damage to roads and internal infrastructure. Major airports and most coastal tourism hubs continue operating, but travellers planning overland transfers should allow extra time and confirm local conditions while recovery work continues. 

last update – 11 March 2026 

Mozambique continues to recover from the severe flooding during the 2025–26 rainy season, with authorities still reporting around 258 deaths and nearly 870,000 people affected nationwide since October 2025. In several flood-affected districts, health authorities warn that malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases remain a heightened risk due to stagnant water, damaged sanitation systems and displaced communities. Travellers should follow strict hygiene precautions, avoid untreated water and ensure appropriate malaria prevention measures. From a tourism perspective, most major wildlife areas remain accessible, including Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve, although road conditions to some parks may still require verification following earlier flood damage. However, Limpopo National Park remains closed due to extensive damage to roads and park infrastructure caused by the January floods. Major airports and coastal tourism hubs continue to operate normally, but travellers should plan itineraries with flexibility and confirm local conditions before travelling. 

last update – 10 March 2026 

Mozambique continues to recover from the severe flooding of the 2025–26 rainy season, with authorities still reporting around 258 deaths and nearly 870,000 people affected nationwide since October 2025. As floodwaters recede in many areas, health authorities are warning of elevated risks of malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases, particularly in flood-affected districts where standing water and damaged sanitation systems persist. Travellers should follow strict hygiene precautions and ensure appropriate malaria prevention. From a tourism perspective, most major wildlife areas remain accessible, including Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve, although some access routes may still require condition checks. However, Limpopo National Park remains closed due to significant flood damage to roads and park infrastructure. Major airports and coastal tourism hubs continue to operate, but travellers should plan itineraries with flexibility and verify local conditions before travelling. 

last update – 07 March 2026  

Mozambique remains in a recovery phase following the severe flooding of the 2025–26 rainy season, and health authorities are warning of heightened risks of malaria, cholera and other water-borne diseases in flood-affected regions as standing water, damaged sanitation systems and displaced communities create favourable conditions for outbreaks. Travellers should take malaria prophylaxis where recommended, avoid untreated water and flooded areas, and ensure vaccinations and hygiene precautions are up to date. From a tourism perspective, most major wildlife areas remain accessible, including Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Special Reserve, although access roads in some districts may still require condition checks following flood damage. However, Limpopo National Park remains closed due to severe damage to roads and park infrastructure caused by the January floods. Travellers should confirm local conditions with operators before departure and plan itineraries with flexibility while recovery work and disease-prevention efforts continue across affected provinces. 

last update – 05 March 2026 

Mozambique continues to recover from the severe flooding that affected large parts of the country during the 2025–26 rainy season. Authorities now report around 258 deaths and nearly 870,000 people affected nationwide since October 2025, highlighting the scale of the disaster. Recovery and infrastructure repairs are ongoing in several southern and central provinces, where damaged roads and bridges still affect regional mobility. For travellers, major international gateways and most coastal tourism hubs remain operational, but overland travel in flood-affected regions can still be slow or unpredictable. One notable tourism impact is that Limpopo National Park remains closed due to severe flood damage to its road network, temporarily disrupting cross-border safari itineraries linked with Kruger National Park. Travellers should continue to confirm park access and road conditions locally and plan itineraries with flexibility while recovery work continues.  

last update – 04 March 2026

Mozambique's disaster management authorities have confirmed that the 2025–26 rainy season death toll has risen to 258, with nearly 870,000 people affected nationwide since October. Recovery efforts continue across central and southern provinces, with road and bridge repairs ongoing in flood-damaged districts. Health services in some hard-hit areas of Gaza Province are gradually resuming operations, though thousands of residents remain displaced. Importantly for travellers, Limpopo National Park remains closed due to flood damage, affecting transfrontier safari itineraries with South Africa. Major international airports and primary coastal tourism hubs remain operational, but overland travel in affected regions requires careful route verification and flexible planning. 

last update - 02 March 2026 

Mozambique continues to recover from one of the most severe rainy seasons in recent years, with the official death toll from flooding and related weather events rising to at least 257 people and approximately 869,000 people affected nationwide since October 2025. As of 02 March 2026, the situation has stabilised compared to January’s peak flooding, but infrastructure repair and regional recovery efforts remain ongoing - particularly in central and southern parts of the country.

For travellers planning trips to Mozambique in 2026, conditions vary significantly by region.

Flooding impact: Where the situation stands

The 2025–26 rainy season brought prolonged heavy rainfall that caused:

• Widespread river flooding
• Damage to secondary and rural road networks
• Bridge washouts and temporary transport corridor closures
• Displacement of tens of thousands of residents

Central and southern provinces — including Gaza, Inhambane, Sofala and Maputo Province — were most affected. While major highways and urban access routes in Mozambique are progressively being restored, some inland and secondary roads remain vulnerable to disruption.

The focus has shifted from emergency response to recovery and rebuilding, but travel times in certain districts may still be longer than normal.

National Parks & wildlife areas: Current access

Limpopo National Park
One of the most significant tourism impacts has been the temporary closure of Limpopo National Park due to flood damage affecting access roads and internal infrastructure. This directly affects cross-border safari itineraries linked with South Africa’s Kruger region.

Travellers planning transfrontier conservation area routes should verify reopening timelines directly with operators before departure.

Niassa Special Reserve
Northern Mozambique has been comparatively less affected by the severe flooding. Niassa Special Reserve remains accessible, although travellers should still confirm logistics due to broader national transport adjustments.

Coastal & marine destinations
Popular beach and diving areas such as:

• Praia do Tofo
• Bazaruto Archipelago

have remained operational overall. However, heavy rains and the offshore passage of Cyclone Gezani in mid-February brought rough sea conditions, temporary power outages in some communities, and short-term disruptions to marine excursions and boat transfers.

Sea conditions have improved, but travellers should continue to allow buffer time for island transfers and diving activities.

Airports & transport infrastructure

The positive news for international travellers:

• Major international airports remain operational
• Scheduled international flights are running
• Primary tourism hubs continue to welcome visitors

The main constraint remains road-based travel, particularly:

• Secondary highways
• Rural access roads to lodges and parks
• Long overland self-drive routes

If combining South Africa and Mozambique, additional route verification is advisable before border crossings.

Humanitarian & social impact

Beyond tourism infrastructure, the flooding has had significant social consequences. More than 230,000 children have reportedly experienced school disruption due to flood-damaged facilities, and thousands of families remain in temporary accommodation as rebuilding continues.

While this does not directly prevent tourism, it underscores the scale of the recovery effort still underway.

What this means for travellers in 2026

Mozambique is not closed, nor is it in a state of escalating crisis. However, it remains in a managed recovery phase.

Travellers should:

• Confirm park and lodge access conditions before departure
• Allow flexible routing for overland travel
• Plan buffer days for marine transfers
• Maintain comprehensive travel insurance
• Monitor official weather and local updates

Northern Mozambique currently offers the most stable access conditions, while southern and central regions may require additional planning.

Bottom Line: Mozambique Travel Advisory – March 2026

As of early March 2026, Mozambique's flood emergency phase has passed, but infrastructure recovery continues in affected provinces. Key tourism infrastructure - airports, major resorts and many wildlife areas - remains operational, although selected parks such as Limpopo National Park are still impacted by flood damage.

For international travellers, Mozambique remains accessible - but smart, flexible planning is essential during this recovery period. 

 

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Mozambique Flooding Update: Tourism & travel advisory - February 2026!

Last update: 27 February 2026 

Mozambique continues to recover from an exceptionally severe 2025–26 rainy season that caused widespread flooding, displacement and infrastructure damage across central and southern regions, with at least 242 fatalities and roughly 869,000 people affected nationwide since October 2025. Heavy rains have damaged or inundated large sections of road networks, bridges and secondary routes, and authorities continue to warn of localized flood risk in saturated basins. Cyclone Gezani’s passage in mid-February brought additional rain, strong coastal winds and rough seas that temporarily slowed recovery efforts, although it did not make direct landfall. For travellers, this means that while primary airports and major urban tourism hubs remain operational, overland travel and road transfers can still be unpredictable, and services in some areas may be limited. National parks and wildlife areas such as those in northern Mozambique are largely accessible, but in flood-affected regions access roads and park tracks may be compromised or subject to detours. Similarly, coastal points of interest and marine activities (e.g., diving, boat transfers to islands) may still face intermittent delays due to residual rough sea conditions. Flexible itineraries, advance confirmation of arrangements and up-to-date local information remain essential for travel planning in early 2026. 

Last update: 24 February 2026

Mozambique continues recovering from an unusually severe 2025–26 rainy and cyclonic season that has left more than 860,000 people affected and 223 fatalities nationwide, with widespread damage to homes, roads, bridges and public infrastructure, and thousands displaced in temporary shelters. Mid-February impacts from Cyclone Gezani added further rainfall and coastal hazards, though the storm passed offshore and did not make direct landfall. Road access and overland travel remain variable and dependent on ongoing repairs, particularly in southern and central provinces, and some tourism services are still subject to delays or altered schedules. At the same time, Mozambique is moving forward with initiatives like a new digital eVisa system to improve arrival processes for international visitors, signalling broader confidence in travel connectivity while recovery continues. Travellers should continue to plan with flexibility, confirm arrangements with local operators, and monitor road and weather conditions before departure. 

Last update: 19 February 2026

Mozambique remains in recovery mode after weeks of severe flooding, while the recent passage of Tropical Cyclone Gezani added further rainfall, strong winds and coastal impacts in parts of the country. Although the cyclone caused localised damage to homes, schools and infrastructure and affected thousands of residents, its impact was lower than initially feared. Floodwaters are gradually receding in several regions, allowing repair work on key transport routes to continue, but road conditions and access to some coastal and inland tourism areas remain inconsistent. Disruptions to utilities, staffing and supply chains persist in affected provinces, and health risks linked to floodwater remain elevated. Travel to northern Mozambique and less-affected regions is increasingly feasible with careful planning, while flexible itineraries and extra travel time remain essential for trips involving southern and central transport corridors. 

Last update: 18 February 2026

Mozambique remains in a prolonged flood recovery phase, with the latest disaster data showing that the 2025–26 rainy season has affected more than 860,000 people, damaged thousands of kilometres of roads, bridges and infrastructure, and destroyed or flooded tens of thousands of homes and public facilities across central and southern provinces. The passage of Cyclone Gezani in mid-February brought additional heavy winds, high seas and coastal hazards near Inhambane, contributing to at least four flood?related deaths and further complicating recovery efforts; it passed just offshore after strengthening in the Mozambique Channel, but direct landfall was avoided. Strong winds and rough seas led to suspension of maritime navigation and transport in several coastal provinces during the peak of the system, causing delays for boat transfers and marine-based tourism. Travellers should expect ongoing road access variability, extended travel times, and possible short-term weather impacts, while tourism facilities outside the worst-affected zones remain operational with advanced planning and flexible itineraries.   

Last update: 16 February 2026

Cyclone Gezani has weakened after passing through the Mozambique Channel, with Mozambique largely spared a direct landfall but experiencing heavy rain, rough seas and slowed flood-recovery efforts. Road repairs and drying conditions continue across affected regions, though overland travel and boat transfers may still face delays, especially in southern and central Mozambique. Tourism operations remain active in many destinations, but flexible planning and confirmation of local conditions remain essential. 

Last updated: 13 February 2026 (Cyclone Gezani)

Tropical Cyclone Gezani has crossed Madagascar and is forecast to pass close to Mozambique around 14–15 February 2026, bringing heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas that could temporarily disrupt travel while flood recovery continues. Short-term delays to road transfers, domestic flights and marine activities are possible, especially along the coast, while neighbouring South Africa may experience heavy rain and swell without major travel disruption. Flexible planning and close monitoring of conditions remain essential. 

Last updated: 11 February 2026

Mozambique remains in the recovery phase following the severe flooding that affected southern and central regions in late January. While heavy rainfall has eased in many areas, damaged roads, washed-out bridges and disrupted infrastructure continue to slow travel and logistics. Large numbers of people remain displaced, and recovery operations are ongoing, particularly in flood-affected provinces. For travellers, this means that road conditions and transfer times may still be unpredictable, especially in southern Mozambique, and conditions can change quickly during the ongoing rainy and cyclone season. Tourism infrastructure in major destinations continues to operate, but careful planning and flexibility remain essential.

What this means for travellers

• Recovery ongoing: Floodwaters are receding, but infrastructure repairs are still in progress.
• Road travel slower than usual: Expect longer travel times and occasional detours.
• Rainy season continues: Weather conditions can still change rapidly during cyclone season.
• Tourism open but cautious: Key coastal destinations remain operational with adjusted schedules.
• Confirm plans before travel: Always verify transfers and accommodation shortly before departure.
• Build flexibility into itineraries: Allow buffer time for delays and route changes.  

Last updated: 06 February 2026

Mozambique is gradually moving into the recovery phase following the severe late-January flooding, with major roads - including sections of the EN1 - reopening in stages. However, travel conditions remain slower and less predictable than normal as repairs continue and occasional rain still affects road quality. Cross-border self-drive routes between South Africa, Eswatini, Zimbabwe and Mozambique are experiencing longer travel times and delays, which may impact popular safari-and-beach itineraries. Tourism operations in key coastal areas such as Maputo, Inhambane, Vilanculos and the Bazaruto gateway towns remain largely operational, although transfers and excursions may take longer or be adjusted depending on local conditions. Travellers should plan flexible itineraries, allow extra travel time and follow enhanced malaria prevention measures due to increased post-flood mosquito activity.

What this means for travellers

• Travel is possible but slower: Major routes are reopening, but road conditions remain variable and travel times longer than usual.
• Expect border and transfer delays: Cross-border self-drive trips and long road transfers may take significantly longer.
• Safari + beach trips still viable: Kruger National Park –Mozambique itineraries remain popular, but buffer time is essential.
• Flights are the low-stress option: Flying to Vilanculos or Inhambane can reduce reliance on long road transfers.
• Avoid night driving in rural areas: Flood damage and displaced wildlife increase risks after dark.
• Malaria risk temporarily higher: Strict mosquito protection and travel-clinic advice are strongly recommended.
• Tourism infrastructure operating: Most hotels and resorts in key coastal areas remain open, with flexible scheduling. 

Last updated: 05 February 2026
 
Flooding in Mozambique continues to severely disrupt travel and tourism across central and southern regions. Extensive road damage, including sections of major transport corridors, has made overland travel, self-drive itineraries, and transfers to coastal and inland tourism destinations unpredictable. While some northern and less-affected areas remain accessible, travellers should expect delays, altered routes, and occasional service disruptions. Hotels and resorts outside the worst-affected zones are generally operational, but confirmation with operators is essential before travel. Health and safety risks remain elevated, particularly near flooded communities and temporary shelters, making flexible planning and up-to-date local information crucial for all visitors. 

Last updated: 04 February 2026

Mozambique's flooding situation remains serious, with regional assessments confirming that more than 700,000 people have been affected and widespread infrastructure damage persists across parts of Maputo, Gaza and Sofala provinces. While regional bodies and humanitarian agencies continue coordinated response and early recovery planning, ongoing rainfall, damaged roads and pressure on public services are still affecting mobility and access. For tourism, overland travel remains unreliable in several regions, and access to some coastal and inland destinations may be subject to delays or route changes. Travellers are advised to monitor local conditions closely and plan with flexibility.

What this means for travellers:

• Overland travel remains unreliable: Damaged roads and temporary closures continue to affect self-drive routes and long-distance transfers, particularly along major north–south corridors.
• Expect delays and route changes: Transfers to beach resorts, lodges and inland destinations may take longer or require detours.
• Some accommodation remains operational: Hotels and resorts outside the worst-affected areas are open, but services may be limited due to staffing, supply or utility disruptions.
• Health and safety risks are elevated: Flooded areas carry increased risks from water-borne diseases and displaced wildlife near rivers and low-lying zones.
• Northern Mozambique less affected: Travel to areas outside central and southern flood zones may be possible with caution, subject to local conditions.
• Flexible planning is essential: Confirm transport, accommodation and access conditions directly with operators shortly before travel. 

Last updated: 03 February 2026

Flooding continues to disrupt travel across central and southern Mozambique, with humanitarian agencies confirming that hundreds of thousands of people remain affected and large sections of the road network still impassable. Key transport corridors, including parts of the EN1 (N1), remain unreliable, limiting overland travel and complicating transfers to tourism destinations. While some stabilisation is reported in select areas, access challenges, service disruptions and heightened health risks persist, particularly near flooded communities and temporary shelters. Travellers are advised to avoid non-essential overland travel in affected regions, confirm access with accommodation providers and plan itineraries with maximum flexibility. 

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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Mozambique Flooding Update: Tourism impacts & travel advisory – January 2026!

last updated - 29 January 2026!

As of late January 2026, ongoing flooding in Mozambique continues to impact tourism and travel, with major sections of the EN1 (N1) highway damaged or cut, disrupting overland access between Maputo, Gaza and beyond. Although repairs are underway and water levels are slowly receding, road access remains unstable, affecting transfers to coastal and inland destinations, including popular beach areas. Some resorts remain operational, but travellers should plan for delays, service disruptions and elevated health and safety risks, while travel outside the worst-affected zones - particularly in northern Mozambique - may be possible with caution. 

last updated - 27 January 2026!

Mozambique’s flooding situation remains critical, with the humanitarian impact continuing to grow. Tens of thousands of homes and vast areas of agricultural land are inundated, transport networks are disrupted, and both domestic and international teams are engaged in rescue and emergency response operations. Health, livelihood, and safety risks persist, with ongoing calls for sustained humanitarian support and response coordination.

• Road networks remain severely disrupted, with major routes - including sections of the EN1 highway - washed out or impassable, leaving travellers and transport services stranded.
• Overland travel is unpredictable: sudden closures, detours, and flood barriers are common in and around flood-affected provinces, especially Gaza, Maputo and Sofala.
• Hotels, lodges, and resorts in affected areas in Mozambique are facing:
• Service disruptions (intermittent power/water)
• Staffing and supply issues
• Reduced accessibility for transfers and excursions
• Some beach and coastal destinations in Maputo Province and elsewhere remain open, but travel times and transfers may be affected by local flooding and damaged roads.
• International and domestic flights are generally operating, but onward ground travel from airports may be disrupted by local flooding and damaged roads. 

last updated - 24 January 2026!

Should you travel to Mozambique right now?
Mozambique remains open to tourism, but travel to flood-affected provinces is strongly discouraged at present. Severe flooding continues to impact road access, national parks, and coastal routes in parts of Gaza, Maputo Province, and Sofala. While international flights are operating, ground transport is unreliable and safety risks remain elevated. Travellers should postpone non-essential trips to affected regions, confirm accommodation and transfers directly with operators, and ensure travel insurance covers weather-related disruptions and evacuation. Flexible itineraries and real-time monitoring are essential. 

last updated - 23 Januay 2026! 

Mozambique is currently facing one of its most severe flooding emergencies in decades, with widespread impacts across southern and central provinces. While the country is not closed to tourism, the ongoing situation has significant implications for travel planning, road access, national parks, coastal resorts, and hospitality services.

This update provides a tourism-focused overview of the current conditions and practical guidance for travellers and tour operators as of 23 January 2026.

Current flooding situation in Mozambique

Prolonged heavy rainfall, overflowing river systems, and controlled dam releases have led to extensive flooding in Mozambique, particularly in Gaza, Maputo, Sofala, Inhambane, and parts of Manica Province. More than 600,000 people have been affected nationwide, with hundreds of thousands displaced into temporary accommodation centres.

Mozambique remains under a national Red Alert, and authorities warn that conditions remain dynamic as the country is still within the peak cyclone and rainy season.

Impact on key tourism areas

National Parks & wildlife tourism

• Limpopo National Park (Gaza Province) has been severely affected, with internal roads flooded, access routes damaged, and several areas currently inaccessible.
• Safari operations, self-drive routes, and lodge access within the park are restricted or suspended until floodwaters recede and safety assessments are completed.
• Travellers should expect temporary closures and operational disruptions across low-lying conservation areas.

Coastal & beach destinations

• Parts of Maputo Province’s coastal belt and surrounding low-lying areas have experienced flooding and isolation due to damaged road access.
• Some beach lodges and resorts may remain operational, but access reliability varies significantly.
• Travellers should confirm road conditions, transfer arrangements, and service availability directly with accommodation providers.

Road access & transport

• Sections of Mozambique's main north–south artery, the EN1 highway, and several secondary routes have been cut or damaged.
• Overland travel between Maputo, Gaza, and Sofala provinces is unreliable and subject to sudden closures.
• Flooded bridges, washed-out roads, and detours are common, affecting self-drive itineraries and scheduled transfers.
• Air travel remains operational, but onward ground connections may be disrupted.

Accommodation & Hospitality Sector

Lodges, hotels, and guesthouses in affected provinces are facing:

• Intermittent power and water supply issues
• Staffing challenges due to displacement
• Cancellations and booking flexibility requests

Property-specific conditions vary widely; direct confirmation with operators is essential.

Health & safety considerations for travellers

Flooding has increased the risk of water-borne diseases, particularly in affected regions. Travellers in Mozambique are advised to:

• Avoid flood-affected areas and low-lying river basins
• Follow official weather and emergency updates
• Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering weather-related disruptions and emergency evacuation
• Build flexibility into itineraries and onward travel plans

Is Mozambique Still Open to Tourism?

Yes — Mozambique remains open to international visitors, and there has been no nationwide suspension of tourism activities. However, localized impacts are substantial, and travel in affected regions requires heightened caution, up-to-date information, and flexible planning.

Short-term outlook for tourism

Floodwaters in Mozambique are expected to persist in some areas for weeks, with road and infrastructure repairs continuing well beyond the immediate emergency phase.

Tourism recovery will depend on:

• Receding water levels
• Road and bridge rehabilitation
• Safety assessments of parks, lodges, and transport routes

Travellers planning visits in late January and February 2026 should closely monitor updates and consider alternative routes or destinations where feasible.

Travel advisory summary

• International flights: operating
• Road travel: highly disrupted in affected provinces
• National parks: access restrictions and closures likely
• Coastal travel: possible, but access varies
• Tourism not suspended, but careful planning essential

We will continue to monitor the situation in Mozambique and provide verified updates relevant to travellers, tour operators, and self-drive visitors across southern Africa.

 

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