Portuguese is the official language, and there are 13 main national languages spoken. English is taught in secondary schools, but is only spoken in the southern tourist regions.
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The official currency is the New Metical (MZN), which is divided into 100 centavos. In the southern parts of the country, South African Rand, U.S. Dollars and Pounds Sterling are also accepted to pay for accommodation. Credit cards are accepted in some upscale hotels in Maputo, but facilities throughout the rest of the country are limited; it is advisable to carry cash or travelers checks. ATMs are limited and tend to be unreliable, but local banks have branches in most cities.
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The international dialing code for Mozambique is +258. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). City/area codes are also in use, e.g. (0)1 for Maputo. Outgoing international calls, other than for South Africa, must go through the operator. Two mobile phone GSM 900/1800 networks provide limited coverage in and around Maputo, Beira, some coastal locations and a few other isolated towns. Internet cafes are available in Maputo.
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Tipping is generally not expected, although in tourist areas a tip of 10 to 15 percent is appreciated.
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Many unexploded landmines lie scattered about the country, and visitors are advised that it is extremely risky to wander off well-travelled paths and roads; local information should be sought before going off-road outside provincial capitals. Violent crime is on the increase, including car hijackings and armed robbery. In the cities, particularly Maputo, muggings, bag snatching and pick-pocketing is common, and visitors are advised to be alert in public places, to keep valuables out of sight, and to avoid walking anywhere at night. Identity documents should be carried at all times.
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Visitors require a yellow fever certificate if traveling from infected areas. Malaria is a risk throughout the year in the whole country and is reported to be resistant to chloroquine. It is recommended that visitors take precautions against typhoid, bilharzia, hepatitis A and cholera in particular. AIDS/HIV is prevalent. Diseases caused by unsanitary conditions are common throughout the country, and untreated water should be considered unsafe to drink. The government has declared tuberculosis (TB) a national emergency and it is expected to be a problem for the next 15 years. Hospital facilities are generally poor and outside the major cities of Maputo and Beira medical facilities are limited. Comprehensive medical insurance is essential and it is recommended that visitors carry personal medical supplies with them.
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Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. The rounded three-pin plug is common, particularly near the border with South Africa and in Maputo. Two round- and flat-pin plugs are also found.
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