A land of spectacular diversity, this tropical paradise has a magic and beauty just waiting to be explored. With something to offer everyone from snorkeling, deep sea fishing, sailing, sandy beaches, rugged coastline, world heritage sites, colonial architecture and colourful local culture, it is an ideal holiday destination. Mozambique's distinct local style consists of a vibrant blend of African, Arab and Portuguese influences and provides a refreshing contrast to the other countries in the Southern Africa region. Known as the land of smiles, Mozambique stretches along Africa's south east coast, bordered by Tanzania to the north; Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to the west; and South Africa and Swaziland to the south. The country is generally a low-lying plateau broken up by 25 rivers that flow into the Indian Ocean. The country is gradually being rebuilt after years of war, and many of the famous old spots from the past have been restored. Exotic destinations in the Northern region include the mysterious and majestic mountains of Namúli and Unango, historical settlements of Angoche, Ile de Mozambique, and Ibo and the magnificent harbour of Pemba.

Climate
Mozambique has a warm, tropical climate. Summer (October to April), is rainy, humid, and very hot while winter (April to September), is cooler and drier and the best time to visit. Temperatures and rainfall patterns vary greatly between the regions of the country, with the north-eastern coast being the hottest and most humid in the country and the high-altitude regions in the Nampula and Niassa provinces the coolest. The rainy season runs from October to March in the South

History
When Portuguese explorers reached Mozambique in 1498, Arab commercial and slave trading settlements had existed along the coast and outlying islands for several centuries. Mozambique developed as a coastal trading port between Africa, the Middle East and India - mainly for gold, ivory and slaves. After centuries of resisting onslaughts of various invaders, the Portuguese colonized Mozambique in 1919. In 1975 it gained independence after national liberation and has awakened after decades of isolation. However, the country was in a bad state, due to civil war and periodic natural disasters. In the last five years Mozambique has experienced a vast economic recovery, and after almost a decade of peace and international effort to restore the flood ravaged country, it is returning to its rightful place as one of the jewels of Africa and as a very popular tourist destination.