Beyond Inhambane: Maputo, Gaza, Sofala & Cabo Delgado (2026)
What to see in the rest of Mozambique beyond Inhambane: Maputo, Gaza, Sofala and Cabo Delgado — how they compare and how to combine them with the Inhambane coast.
Inhambane is the heart of Mozambique's beach tourism, but it is one of ten provinces in a long, varied country. If you have extra time, here is how the neighbouring regions compare — and how to combine them with your Inhambane trip.
Maputo: the capital
Maputo, in the far south, is Mozambique's vibrant capital and the main international gateway. Expect Portuguese-colonial architecture, buzzing markets, a superb food scene and lively music. Most visitors pass through Maputo en route to Inhambane — spend a day or two exploring before heading up the coast. Nearby, Inhaca Island offers reefs and beaches within reach of the city.
Gaza: the road north
Gaza province sits between Maputo and Inhambane along the EN1, with long stretches of bush and the Limpopo National Park, part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park shared with South Africa and Zimbabwe. It is more of a wildlife and overland-route region than a beach destination — a natural stop if you are self-driving north.
Sofala: history and wilderness
Further north, Sofala province centres on the port city of Beira and is home to the famous Gorongosa National Park, one of Africa's great conservation stories, with lions, elephants and huge birdlife. Gorongosa is a genuine safari add-on for travellers wanting to pair beach and bush.
Cabo Delgado: the far north
In the far north, Cabo Delgado holds the stunning Quirimbas Archipelago — remote islands, coral reefs and historic Ibo Island. It is beautiful but far and, at times, affected by security concerns; check current travel advice from your government before planning a visit.
How to combine them
Whatever you add, base your beach days on the Inhambane travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Maputo is Mozambique's capital and main international gateway, with great food, markets, music and colonial architecture. Most travellers spend a day or two there before heading up the coast to Inhambane.
Yes. Gorongosa National Park in Sofala province, further north, is a well-known safari destination that pairs well with the Inhambane coast for a combined beach-and-bush trip.
Cabo Delgado has beautiful islands like the Quirimbas but has at times been affected by security concerns. Always check the latest travel advice from your government before planning a visit.
Written by the Folha de Inhambane team
A local team based in Inhambane, Mozambique, writing independent travel guides to the province. About us →