Flooding in Mozambique: What Travellers Need to Know Before Visiting

As of early February 2026, severe flooding continues to impact large parts of Mozambique, particularly in the southern and central regions. While the country remains open to international tourism, the ongoing crisis has significant implications for travel, with widespread disruptions to infrastructure, safety risks, and access to popular destinations. Travellers are advised to exercise caution and carefully plan their trips, especially if visiting flood-affected areas.

The flooding, caused by prolonged heavy rainfall during the wet season, has inundated low-lying areas and swollen river systems across provinces such as Gaza, Maputo, and Sofala. Although water levels are beginning to recede in some areas, the damage to roads, bridges, and public infrastructure is extensive, and recovery efforts are expected to take weeks rather than days. The situation remains fluid, with continued risks of flash flooding and further rainfall anticipated as Mozambique enters its annual cyclone season.

Impact on Tourism and Travel

For travellers, the flooding has created significant challenges, particularly for overland travel. The EN1 highway, Mozambique’s primary north-south transport corridor, has been severely damaged, with sections cut off or destroyed. This has disrupted tourism transfers, self-drive itineraries, and supply chains. Officials report that approximately 150 km of national roads have been destroyed, with 5,000 km affected countrywide [[3]](https://atta.travel/resource/mozambique-floods-cut-highway-tourism-and-freight-disrupted.html). Road repairs are underway, but access remains unstable and subject to sudden closures. Secondary roads and rail connections in flood-prone areas have also been disrupted, making self-drive travel inadvisable at this time.

Coastal and beach destinations, including popular areas in Maputo Province, have also been affected. While some resorts and lodges remain operational, access routes may require long detours, and travel times are often extended. Additionally, supply chain disruptions have led to staffing shortages and limited availability of essential services in some areas. Travellers should confirm access routes and resort status directly with operators before making plans.

National parks and conservation areas in flood-affected regions face similar challenges. Flooded internal roads and tracks, restricted activities, and limited emergency access have made visits to parks in southern and central Mozambique impractical. Travellers are advised to postpone trips to these areas until official access confirmations are issued.

Health and Safety Risks

The flooding has also created elevated health and safety risks. Contaminated water supplies and sanitation challenges have increased the risk of waterborne diseases, while access to healthcare services in rural or flooded areas remains limited. Additionally, displaced wildlife, including crocodiles, has been reported in flooded towns and peri-urban zones, posing unusual safety risks. Travellers should avoid floodwaters entirely and adhere to local safety advisories [[2]](https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2026-01-23/press-release-flood-situation-mozambique).

Is Mozambique Open to Tourists?

Yes, Mozambique remains open to international tourism, and commercial flights are operating normally. However, non-essential travel to flood-affected provinces is strongly discouraged. Travellers should proceed only with confirmed arrangements, flexible itineraries, and comprehensive travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions and medical evacuation.

Short-Term Outlook for Tourism

While floodwaters are slowly receding in some transport corridors, the recovery of Mozambique’s tourism sector will depend on the pace of infrastructure rehabilitation, safety assessments, and the stabilisation of weather conditions. Destinations outside the worst-affected flood zones, particularly in northern Mozambique, may still be accessible with caution. However, travellers should remain vigilant and stay updated on the latest advisories.

For now, Mozambique’s tourism industry faces significant challenges, but the resilience of its people and the ongoing recovery efforts offer hope for a gradual return to normalcy. Travellers planning to visit should stay informed, exercise patience, and prioritize safety above all else.