MozGuide

Inhambane province and its capital of the same name lie outside the destructive path of most of the tropical cyclones that can wreak havoc along this coast. The area’s isolation has ensured its relative escape from modern influences; much cultural and historical heritage has been retained.

Whether arriving by dhow, plane or car, visitors will inevitably end up at the caias or jetty, where the imposing ‘new’ cathedral (open Sundays – the 18th-century cathedral is behind it) and the long L-shaped jetty are obvious landmarks. Alongside the modern cathedral, the 200-year-old Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception is worth entering. If you can trust the rusty rungs, climb up into the bell tower for sublime views of the bay and town. Avenida Independência stretches directly from the jetty; along this tree-lined thoroughfare you will come across the Hotel Inhambane, which, until renovated, should be avoided. Garagem São Cristovão sells petrol (gasolina), diesel (gasóleo), paraffin (petróleo) and engine oil (óleo de lubrificar). This service station is one of the few places around (Pachiça is another) where clean toilets and air to pump up your tyres are also available. You will pass major banks and the colonial-style municipal offices before reaching the large traffic circle at the end of the avenue.