Excursion Mafalala explorer tour at Maputo

Explore the local culture, lifestyles, people, food, and medicine of Mafalala during this scenic and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Maputo

Depart the pier for the short drive to Mafalala, a central suburb of Maputo City. Formerly known as 'Lourenço Marques' and named after the Portuguese explorer who landed here in 1544, Maputo is the capital and largest city of Mozambique. A bustling port on the Indian Ocean, its economy is centred on the harbour. The country has only been at peace for a relatively short time following a devastating civil war in the '70s and '80s, a period during which most of the city's infrastructure and architecture were destroyed. Since the signing of a peace treaty in 1991, great strides have been made in the 'healing' of this once-affluent Portuguese city, and the city today is slowly recreating some of its former glory.

Mafalala, Guided Walking Tour

Mafalala has a long and interesting history. Throughout Mozambique's turbulent past, Mafalala has always been an important cultural and political centre. This suburb has produced famous political leaders, writers, musicians and sports heroes. Upon arrival, take a guided stroll through Mafalala.

Local People, Culture, Food and Medicine of Mafalala, Feima Market

Along the way, learn about the local ethno-cultural diversity and Mozambican history, thus garnering a unique perspective of the last half-century. As you walk through Mafalala's dusty streets, winding alleys and market, gain a unique insight into its local foods, medicine and lifestyles, and interact with the local people. Leaving Mafalala, re-board your coach and continue on to the Feima Market, where some free time is made available to browse for souvenirs. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Maputo, Mafalala, Guided Walking Tour, Local People, Culture, Food and Medicine, Feima Market

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 273 yards (about 250 metres), at times over bumpy, uneven, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Mozambique is a third-world country and although it offers a rewarding experience, it differs markedly from South Africa in all aspects. Guests are advised that there is no formal guiding qualification required for Mozambique, therefore we support the local community by using local escorts/guides. Most of these escorts/guides have many years of experience in guiding for visiting cruise ships. The coaches are maintained, although basic, and the quality can vary considerably and may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. Whilst the roads are tarred, there are many with potholes. There are also a number of bumpy dirt roads. Some of the monuments and attractions encountered on this tour fall under the category of "military or state defence objects'. Photography of these monuments and attractions is strictly prohibited, and you may face serious problems by ignoring these rules. Therefore, please ask your tour guides before photographing such sites. Walking at the Feima Market is at the discretion of each guest. The tour sequence may vary.