Where to Stay in Mozambique: Our Favorite Getaways in 2022
What can be difficult about figuring out where to stay in Mozambique is sifting through all the Mozambique accommodation options. Not just that, but deciding which locations are the best areas to stay in Mozambique can be an arduous task!
Don’t shoulder that cumbersome load alone. We’re here to help. We found the best hostels, Airbnbs and hotels in Mozambique for you. We are ready to hold your hand and walk you through all the top places to stay in Mozambique too. Ready? Let’s go.
Map of Where to Stay in Mozambique

Mozambique Island – The Overall Best Place to Stay in Mozambique
Mozambique Island, also called Ilha de Moçambique, can be found off of the northern coast of Mozambique. It is actually close enough to the mainland that it is connected by a two-mile-long bridge – in fact, the island itself is just two miles long! It’s also just a few hundred yards wide, which means that it’s a tiny island perfect for exploring. The entire island has been named a Unesco World Heritage site, which is one of the reasons why it is the best city to stay in Mozambique.
When visiting Mozambique Island, make sure to see the Fortaleza de Sao Sebastiao and to tour the Governor’s Palace Museum. There is a smattering of curious colonial buildings, including the old town fortifications and the Church of Santo António.
Best Places To Stay On Mozambique Island
As a teeny tiny island, you can stay pretty much anywhere and not be too far away from what you need. Don’t fret over districts or neighborhoods, Mozambique Island is small enough that nothing is really divided that way.

Best Airbnb on Mozambique Island: Magic Ilha – Great Sea View
While this Airbnb is a little bit of a splurge, it can fit up to six guests in this two-bedroom and two bathroom home. So if you’re traveling with a large group, and split the price six ways – you can throw yourself a party because this Airbnb is one for the books! With tons of rustic charm and lots of thoughtful touches, this restored 18th Century Portuguese house is positively beautiful. You’ll be overlooking the sea off of the two terraces. Relax on a sunbed and enjoy total privacy.
Best Guest House on Mozambique Island: Cafe Central
Ah, Cafe Central. What a positively beautiful guesthouse. This colonial-style property sits just a few hundred feet from the Museum of the Island Of Mozambique. You’ll love the affordable room rates, and lounging in the two swimming pools. It has an incredible old-world charm that will make you feel almost as if you’re in a different century altogether. Never fear, the rooms have been renovated to modern standards – so you won’t be stuck with 19th-century plumbing!
Best Hotel on Mozambique Island: Feitoria Boutique Hotel
As a beachfront hotel, Feitoria Boutique Hotel is a state of the art hotel, yet still will make you feel transported back in time with the tasteful decor and ambiance. If the turquoise waters of the ocean aren’t calling your name, then enjoy the soothing waters of the outdoor swimming pool. Popular tourist hotspots that are very close to the hotel are the Fort São Sebastião, the Governor’s Palace Museum, and the Church of Misericordia.
Ponta do Ouro & Ponta Malongane – Best Place to Stay in Mozambique for Families
Ponta Malongane and Ponta do Ouro are simply so fantastic that we couldn’t choose between them as the best place to stay in Mozambique on a family vacation! Since they are just seven kilometers apart, getting between Ponta Malongane and Ponta do Ouro isn’t difficult at all. It’s most easily traversed by a four-wheeler, which is sure to thrill the kids! As a reference point, both Ponta Malongane and Ponta do Ouro sit in the extreme south of Mozambique, just a bit north from the border with South Africa.

Ponta do Ouro is renowned for its tranquil beaches and for the pods of dolphins that circle the shores. Also from July through October, expect to see whales! Since Ponta do Ouro is closer to South Africa, it is a popular tourist destination for weekend trips and can easily be added to your South Africa backpacking itinerary.
Ponta Malongane is known to be quieter than Ponta do Ouro. It’s a bit more remote and it has less busy beaches that are peppered with patches of coastal forest.
Best Places to Stay in Ponta do Ouro & Ponta Malongane
While Ponta Malongane is surely more peaceful than the ever-so-slightly more busy Ponta do Ouro, I recommend staying in Ponta do Ouro to have easier access to restaurants and little shopping marts. Also, when possible, stay as close to the beach as possible to maximize those laid-back, chill vibes!

Best Airbnb in Ponta do Ouro & Ponta Malongane: Rustique Home
This Airbnb is a fantastic choice for lodging in Mozambique with a family in tow. It sits just outside of the city center of Ponta do Ouro, in a more peaceful residential neighborhood. It is an entire home, that can house ten guests with three bedrooms complete with nine beds! There are also two bathrooms so you won’t have to fight over shower time. Also, this Airbnb sits just 400 meters from the main beach. If you’re wondering where should I stay in Mozambique with my family, this Airbnb is the way to go!
Best Guest House in Ponta do Ouro & Ponta Malongane: Villa Grande
The Villa Grande is a family-friendly resort that sits just 1,950 feet from Ponta Do Ouro Shopping Centre. If there’s anything you need, it’s within arms reach at the Villa Grande. Each room at this resort has a patio and a garden view. There’s also a barbecue available to guests, should you want to whip up some grilled delights!
Best Hotel in Ponta do Ouro & Ponta Malongane: Gala Gala Eco Resort
Gala Gala Eco Resort is a beautiful hotel that is just a five-minute walk to the beach! Best of all, the site of this hotel is a little secluded. Tucked away from all the businesses of Ponta, you and your family will love staying here. Gala Gala also has an on-site dive center if you’re interested in learning how to scuba dive.
Vilanculos – Where to Stay in Mozambique for Couples
Vilanculous is a popular coastal town and is known as being the Mozambican capital of water sports! So get ready to get a hefty dose of fun here in Vilanculos when you’re traveling with your significant other. It’s one of the top places to stay in Mozambique not just because of the water sports, but also because of it being the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago, which is Mozambique’s only underwater national park.

You and your loved one will love doing everything from sailing to kitesurfing to helicopter flights. You can also do an incredible tour of the Vilanculos Coast on horseback! Get in touch with Mozambique Horse Safari for more information.
Lastly, if you and your loved one are looking to do some volunteering, consider checking out the African Impact Community Project.
Best Places to Stay in Vilanculos
As a balmy, breezy beach town definitely stay as close to the beach as possible! Plus, those white sandy beaches and azure waters really do maximize the romantic vibes.

Best Airbnb in Vilanculos: Coconut Beach Cottage
Welcome to couples’ paradise at the Coconut Beach Cottage Airbnb. It sits just opposite the soft white sands of the beach, and is actually sandwiched between two fabulous restaurants! There is also a lovely little garden to enjoy.
Best Hostel in Vilanculos: Baobab Beach Lodge and Backpackers
Baobab Beach is situated just off the seashore. What’s better than life on the beach? This hostel is also just a quick 10 minutes walk from the town center. Right from your hostel, you can book diving, island hopping, horseback riding, and snorkeling trips. You and your loved one will ooh and ahh over the eco-vibes at this tranquil hostel! And yes, private rooms are available.
Best Hotel in Vilanculos: Casa Chibububo Lodge
Bring on the romantic vibes at this beautiful, beachside hotel. The wooden and thatched-roof bungalows sit just steps away from the beach. If you don’t feel like wading into the waters, just lounge by the outdoor pool and garden. Additionally, each house has a small kitchen, equipped with all you can need! Lastly, you’ll be just under two miles from the Night Market and from the delectable Kilimanjaro Cafe.