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

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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