How to get to Vilanculos?

Vilanculos is 700km north of Maputo. There are daily direct flights from Johannesburg, Maputo and from the Kruger Park Mpumalanga International Airport. Swazi Express Airways operates twice a week from Durban via Matsapha (Swaziland). The road between Maputo and Vilanculos is accessible by two wheel drive.



Banking & Currency

The currency is the Metical (plural Meticais). The South African rand and US dollar and most credit cards are accepted.

 There are 3 banks: Barclays & BCI near the town’s entrance & BIM Millennium on the main tar road, near the sea. They are open 8h00 – 15h00 on weekdays. Barclays Bank is also open Saturdays 9h00 – 12h00. Credit Cards: All banks have ATMs for VISA cards – but not always MasterCard.




Health precautions

No vaccinations are required. You should bring along the following personal medication:
insect and mosquito repellent suntan and blockout creams. Imodium, malaria tablets and antihistamine creams. It is a good idea to drink bottled water.



Malaria

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a malaria area. It is advisable to wear protective clothing such as long sleeve tops and long trousers in the evening, use mosquito repellent. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist about a suitable malaria prophylactic.



Socializing.

Vilankulo is a great place to party. Please note that Mozambique has a zero tolerance policy regarding recreational drugs (including cannabis). Avoid putting yourself in vulnerable situations – party with friends and if in doubt, arrange a lift home. It is generally safe to walk around Vilankulo, although better to walk in groups, especially at night. Avoid dark & deserted areas; particularly the stretch between the campsite and the corner at the Mira Mar broken bus, near BIM Millennium Bank. Also near the colonial residence ruin on route to Baobab Backpackers. Best is to arrange transport or an escort home at night.

* Some restaurants offer a pick-up /drop-off service. 

* You can call a taxi - Junior from Dolphin Dhow (824624700) offers a good service.

* Car hire is also available. Call Amina at Merkin Car Hire. tel. 824795710



Culture and Dress Code

We have a wonderful mix of Arabic, African & Portuguese cultures. Generally people are conservative. Please respect this and dress appropriately in public places. Skimpy clothes, short skirts & bikinis will offend some Mozambicans. Buy a ‘kapulana’ (sarong) for a quick wrap around, and men - please keep your shirts on!

Take note that some people do not want to be photographed, some want payment, but others love it, especially if you have a digital and show the photos.
If you try to communicate in Portuguese or Xitsua, you will gain much respect, and have much more fun.



Shopping

Visiting the markets can be an interesting experience. Bargaining is the norm with curio and casual sellers, although prices of basic goods & fresh produce are usually standard. Shopping is regarded as a social event, so be patient - and enjoy the barter.

But keep your wits about you. Petty theft can be a problem, - be aware of those around you and keep valuables out of sight. ‘Street-kids’ are sometimes involved so do not encourage dependency by giving them money or gifts. It is however customary to give a coin to the old and disabled.



Time Difference

GMT+ 2 hours



Weather

Being within the tropics Mozambique seldom gets cold, but on some evenings during the winter months of June and July a light jacket or pullover will be necessary. The summer months of November through to February can be extremely hot. This is also the rainy season, though storms seldom last long.



Visa Requirements

All visitors require visas, which can be obtained from the various consulates or on arrival in Mozambique. You will be liable for passenger tax, immigration tax and airport tax.

Germany
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Germany
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United States
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Suite 570
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United States
Tel. ++1 202 293 7146
Fax ++1 202 835 0245
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Internet - www.embamoc-usa.org