Surfing in Mozambique: Ultimate Surf Travel Guide
Mozambique is a hidden gem on the African surf map. Warm water, empty lineups, and powerful swells make it a dream for anyone chasing waves.
Whether you’re charging barreling points or cruising mellow beach breaks, there’s something for everyone.
The vibe? Pure adventure. Think perfect waves, fresh seafood, and sunset beers with locals who actually smile when they see you paddle out.
If you’re looking for a surf trip that’s raw, beautiful, and a little off the beaten path – Mozambique delivers.
What’s Special about Surfing in Mozambique?
Mozambique is a surfer’s dream – warm, crystal-clear waters, uncrowded waves, and a tropical paradise vibe that makes every session unforgettable.
Tofinho, just outside Inhambane, is the star, offering a world-class right-hand point break that’s lured in pros looking for perfection between competitions. The local culture adds to the magic – think fresh seafood, lively markets, and friendly faces everywhere.
Whether you’re carving up clean lines or chilling in a hammock post-surf, this place just hits different. It’s raw, it’s beautiful, and it’s pure surfing bliss.
But the adventure doesn’t stop at the waves. Getting to hidden surf gems often means off-roading through villages where kids wave as you pass.
The ocean is teeming with life – spotting dolphins, manta rays, and even whale sharks is just another day out here. And with warm waters year-round, no wetsuit needed – just board shorts, sunblock, and stoke.
Where to Surf in Mozambique: An Overview
Mozambique’s coastline is a hidden gem for surfers looking for warm water, adventure, and uncrowded waves.
Stretching over 2,500 km along the Indian Ocean, the country offers a mix of tropical beaches, rugged points, and pristine reefs.
The best surf zones are concentrated in the south and central regions, with easy access from South Africa. While getting around can be tricky – think dirt roads and river crossings – the reward is untouched waves, stunning scenery, and a laid-back surf culture that’s still flying under the radar.
The surf season runs from April to September, with peak swells hitting in June and July. Unlike other Indian Ocean spots, Mozambique’s waves depend on a mix of east, north, and south swells, so timing is key.
The water is warm year-round – boardshorts and bikinis only – but mosquitoes can be relentless, so pack repellent.
Most surfers start in Maputo and head north, with 4x4s being the best way to chase waves.
7 Best Surf Spots in Mozambique
Ready to plan your trip to one of Africa’s most beautiful surf countries? Here are the best surf spots in Mozambique.
Ponta do Ouro: Mozambique’s Most Famous Wave
Conditions: Ponta do Ouro is a legendary right-hand point break, thanks to its perfectly groomed waves from SE swells. The waves peel endlessly along the sandy bottom, offering long rides, especially at mid to high tide. The break handles a variety of swell sizes, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. Beware of strong rips on big days!
Best Time to Surf: April to September, when consistent southern swells light up the point.
Vibe: It’s a well-known spot, meaning you’ll see surfers from all over, especially South Africans. It can get competitive when it’s firing, but there’s a friendly, laid-back surf culture. The town is growing as a tourist hub, so expect some nightlife and a mix of locals and travellers.
Getting There: You’ll need a 4WD vehicle to navigate the sandy roads from Maputo (about a 3-hour drive). If coming from South Africa, it’s just across the border from Kosi Bay.
Where to Stay: Ponta Beach Camps offers beachfront accommodation, and there are plenty of guesthouses in town.
Tofo: Mozambique’s Surfing Capital
Conditions: Tofo is home to two main breaks:
- Tofinho: A powerful right-hand reef break with steep drops and barrels. Best for advanced surfers.
- Tofo Beach: A mellow, beginner-friendly break with rolling waves. Perfect for learning or longboarding.
Best Time to Surf: April to October for the best swells, but there’s something to ride year-round.
Vibe: Tofo has a buzzing surf and backpacker culture. It’s the most developed surf town in Mozambique, with surf schools, bars, and fresh seafood spots. The diving is also world-class, with whale sharks and manta rays often spotted offshore.
Getting There: A 7-hour drive from Maputo or a short flight to Inhambane, followed by a 30-minute drive.
Where to Stay: Check out Kumba Lodge for a mix of comfort and surf vibes.
Praia de Závora: Remote and Rewarding
Conditions: A hidden gem with empty waves. The main spot is a right-hand reef break that can get hollow and fast. The bay also offers softer peaks for intermediates.
Best Time to Surf: May to October for the cleanest waves.
Vibe: Completely uncrowded. You might surf alone here, so bring a friend for safety. The surroundings are wild and beautiful, with rolling dunes and turquoise water.
Getting There: A 4WD is recommended. It’s about a 6-hour drive from Maputo.
Where to Stay: Zavora Lodge offers beachfront accommodation.
Barra Beach: Mellow Waves & Chilled Vibes
Conditions: Barra Beach is ideal for beginners. The sandy-bottom beach break produces slow, peeling rights on smaller swells. Occasionally, a sandbank forms, creating a quality right-hander at high tide.
Best Time to Surf: November to March for the best beginner-friendly waves.
Vibe: Super relaxed. It’s more of a hammock-and-coconut spot than a hardcore surf destination, but a great place to unwind.
Getting There: Just north of Tofo, a short 20-minute drive.
Where to Stay: Sentidos Beach Retreat for luxury, or Barra Beach Club for surf-focused stays.
Dino’s Left: The Go-To Left-Hander
Conditions: A rare left-hand point break near Guinjata Bay. It needs an easterly swell to fire, but when it does, expect long, peeling lefts over a rocky reef. Best for intermediates and up.
Best Time to Surf: May to October for the cleanest conditions.
Vibe: Uncrowded and peaceful. It’s a great place to escape the crowds.
Getting There: A 4-hour drive north of Tofo.
Where to Stay: Guinjata Bay Resort, located right in front of the break.
Quissico: The Untouched Secret
Conditions: A long right-hand point break that works on solid swells. The setup is similar to Ponta do Ouro but with far fewer people. The wave is fun, rippable, and holds shape well.
Best Time to Surf: June to September when solid southern swells hit.
Vibe: Empty. It’s one of the least crowded quality waves in Mozambique, perfect for those looking for solitude.
Getting There: A 5-hour drive from Maputo. Bring supplies, as there are few amenities.
Where to Stay: Camping is your best bet here.
Back Beach & Backdoor: Hollow & Heavy
Conditions: Two waves in one area. Back Beach is a hollow right-hand beach break, while Backdoor is a gnarly right-hand barrel breaking over a shallow reef. Strictly for advanced surfers.
Best Time to Surf: May to September.
Vibe: Raw and powerful. Not for the faint of heart.
Getting There: Near Tofo, but requires local knowledge to find.
Where to Stay: Stay in Tofo and drive in.
Best Time of Year to Surf in Mozambique
Mozambique has waves all year round, but if you want the best conditions, aim for the dry season – April to October. That’s when the big swells roll in, the weather is cooler, and the winds are mostly offshore.
Expect two to three solid swells a month, with waves ranging from 3 to 8 feet.
Winter (June to August) is the peak surf season. The roaring forties push swell up between Madagascar and Mozambique, lighting up the points with long, clean waves.
Spring and autumn? Still pretty consistent, but not quite as reliable.
The wet season (October to March) is a different story. It’s hotter, rainier, and… cyclones. When they hit, they can send in perfect, powerful E-NE swells – or just flood roads and make getting around a nightmare.
If you’ve got a solid 4×4 and a taste for adventure, you might score big. Just be ready for mud, mosquitoes, and some seriously tricky travel.
Tidal changes are also a thing – especially further up the Mozambique Channel. Shallow reefs can go from epic to unsurfable real quick, so timing matters.
For local surf info and support, check in with Associação de Surf do Moçambique (ASM) or Lwandi Surf. They’ll hook you up with the latest conditions and best spots to paddle out.
Local Tips for Surfing in Mozambique
Navigating Mozambique for a surf trip can seem pretty intimidating if you’ve never been before. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you go.
Bring a 4×4 (or Make Friends with Someone Who Has One)
Many of the best waves are off the beaten path, and when it rains, dirt roads turn into mud pits. A solid 4×4 is the difference between scoring empty perfection and spending your day digging out of the sand.
Watch the Tides
Some breaks, especially up the Mozambique Channel, completely change with the tide.
A spot that’s pumping at mid-tide might be a dry reef (or a closeout mess) at low tide. Check with locals before paddling out.
Wind Matters – Know Your Spots
Mornings are usually glassy, but by midday, the wind can mess things up. Southern spots like Tofo handle the NE trades better, while further north, certain reefs and points light up with cyclone swells.
Know what works best before committing to a mission.
Cyclones = Jackpot or Disaster
If a cyclone is brewing in the Indian Ocean, you could score the session of your life – or get stuck in a flooded village with no way out. Plan accordingly.
Respect the Locals (Both in the Water and on Land)
The surf scene here is still growing, and most of the lineup is super friendly. But respect the pecking order, and don’t roll up acting like you own the place.
Also, be cool to the people in town – locals look out for surfers who show respect.
Pack Spare Gear
Mozambique isn’t Bali or Portugal – there are no surf shops on every corner. If you snap a leash or ding your surfboard, you’ll be wishing you brought extras.
Trust me… I once snapped my board after scoring big time at Tofinho on the very first session of my very first day in Mozambique. I spent the rest of the trip surfing a mate’s far smaller board which was less than ideal.
Check-in with ASM or Lwandi Surf
The Associação de Surf do Moçambique (ASM) and Lwandi Surf know the latest conditions, secret spots, and any travel tips you need. A quick chat with them can save you a lot of headaches.
Travelling to Mozambique for a Surf Trip
A surf trip to Mozambique is about so much more than just scoring great waves – it’s also one of the most exciting and beautiful travel destinations out there.
Country Overview
Mozambique is a hidden gem on Africa’s east coast, sitting between South Africa and Tanzania.
It has warm Indian Ocean waters year-round and a long coastline. However, the best surf is in the south, as Madagascar blocks swells from reaching the north.
Portuguese is the main language, and while English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Portuguese phrases helps.
The country has a history of war, but today, it’s peaceful, and the people are incredibly friendly.
Expect fresh seafood, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back vibe.
Getting to Mozambique for a Surf Trip
Most surfers fly into Maputo International Airport (MPM) or take a flight to Johannesburg (JNB) and drive in. If you’re coming from South Africa, a rental car is an option, but a 4×4 is highly recommended for reaching remote surf spots.
Overland travel is possible from Eswatini and Zimbabwe. Visas are available on arrival for most nationalities but check ahead just in case.
If you have time, a stop at Kruger National Park on the way is a great idea.
Mozambique Travel Attractions
Beyond the waves, Mozambique has incredible wildlife, islands, and cultural experiences. The Bazaruto Archipelago offers pristine beaches, diving, and whale watching.
Tofo, a surf hotspot, is also one of the best places to swim with whale sharks and manta rays. Inhambane, an old colonial town, has a relaxed charm with colourful markets and friendly locals.
If you’re into adventure, try deep-sea fishing, kayaking through mangroves, or just chilling in a beachside hammock.
Food in Mozambique
Mozambican food is all about fresh seafood, peri-peri spice, and Portuguese influence. Expect delicious prawns, grilled fish, and peri-peri chicken.
Matapa, a dish made from cassava leaves, coconut, and peanuts, is a local favourite. For a quick snack, try pão (Portuguese bread rolls) or the fresh roasted cashew nuts from street vendors.
To drink, grab a 2M (pronounced ‘doish-em’) beer or sip on locally brewed palm wine. Food in Tofo is especially good, with beachfront restaurants serving up fresh, tasty meals.
Just be aware that all fresh food comes from the local markets, which generally involves some haggling and communication difficulties.
Surf Resorts and Hotels: Where to Stay
Tofo is the go-to surf destination, and it has some awesome places to stay:
- Kumba Lodge – A luxury beachfront stay with one of the best pools in East Africa. Perfect for couples looking to relax between sessions.
- Liquid Dive Adventures – Beachfront bungalows right in front of the surf. Great for solo travellers and groups. Excellent food too.
- Kitesurf Tofo House – Ideal for surfers and kiters alike. Well-located between Tofo Beach and the point.
For budget travellers, local guesthouses and backpacker lodges are also available, offering a more rustic but still comfy stay.
If you’re looking for solitude, there are hidden eco-lodges along the coast where you can wake up to empty waves.
Surfing in Mozambique: FAQs
Does Mozambique have good surf?
Yes! Mozambique has amazing surf, especially in the south. Warm water, uncrowded waves, and solid swells make it a dream for surfers.
Where to surf in Tofo, Mozambique?
Tofo has great surf spots like Tofinho, a powerful right-hand point break, and Backdoor, a fun reef break. The main beach also has mellow waves for beginners.
What is the nearest airport to Tofo Beach, Mozambique?
Inhambane Airport (INH) is the closest airport to Tofo Beach, about a 30-minute drive away. You can also fly into Maputo and take a bus or drive up.
Is Mozambique safe to travel?
Yes, but take precautions. Stick to well-traveled areas, avoid remote regions at night, and watch out for petty theft. Malaria is a risk, so bring repellent and take medication if needed.
Why is Mozambique so beautiful?
Mozambique has stunning beaches, crystal-clear water, and vibrant marine life. Its mix of African and Portuguese culture adds to its unique charm.
Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Mozambique?
No, the water stays warm all year. A rash guard can help with the sun and reef protection, but no wetsuit is needed.
Wrapping Up
Surfing in Mozambique isn’t just about the waves – it’s the whole experience. The road trips, the untouched beaches, the rhythm of a place that moves slower than your last noseride. It’s about scoring waves with no one around except a couple of dolphins and a local kid cheering you on from the sand.
If you’re after something real, something wild, something different – pack your board, grab your passport, and get here before the secret’s out.
