MozGuide

Beira (capital of Sofala province), Chimoio (capital of Manica province) and Tete (capital of Tete) are the largest towns in Mozambique’s central and western region. All three are historically and architecturally fascinating, owing their existence to the need for trading outlets: Chimoio is an important farming centre, Tete is a Zambezi River port and Beira a busy ocean harbour at the mouth of the Púngoè and Búzi rivers. Tete’s two squat sandstone stockades reveal its former ‘frontier town’ status, while dhows, handcrafted nearby, still ply Beira’s ultramodern docks.

Located about 40km (25 miles) to the north of Beira on the Savane River is one of Mozambique’s most peaceful resorts – Rio Savane. This mangrove estuary is almost pristine and the new owners offer boat trips up the river, and have seen buffalo, elephant and lion on their beach. During rain it is recommended that only 4WD vehicles attempt the drive past an old leper colony to the guarded parking area from where a motor-dhow transfers guests to the cottages and camp sites. Coming from Dondo the EN8 road reaches a flyover and turn-off to the airport. A short distance before the airport sign, turn left down a small track which passes through villages and after a few junctions terminates at Savane.