
Quick Answer
Mozambique is not expensive. Budget: $30-50/day, mid-range: $80-120/day. It's significantly cheaper than Zanzibar, Maldives, or Seychelles. Local meals cost $2-5, budget accommodation $10-25/night, and diving $50-80 per two-tank dive. Save money by using local transport and eating at local restaurants.
Short Answer
Mozambique is not expensive compared to other African beach destinations. Budget travelers can manage on $30-50/day, mid-range on $80-120/day. It's significantly cheaper than Zanzibar, Maldives, or Seychelles for comparable beaches and diving. The e-Visa costs $50-80, domestic flights $100-180, and diving $50-80 per two-tank dive.
Cost Comparison (2026)
Mozambique vs other destinations (per day, mid-range):
- Mozambique: $80-120/day
- Zanzibar: $100-200/day
- Maldives: $300-800/day
- Seychelles: $200-500/day
- South Africa: $100-150/day
- Tanzania: $100-200/day
What Makes Mozambique Affordable
- Local meals (xima, matapa, grilled fish): $2-5
- Budget accommodation: $10-25/night
- Local transport (chapas): $2-10
- Beer: $1-3
- Fresh seafood: $5-15
What's More Expensive Than Expected
- Domestic flights (LAM): $100-180
- Private transfers: $50-150
- Luxury lodges: $500-2,000/night
- Diving certification courses: $300-500
- Park fees (Gorongosa, Bazaruto): $15-25/day
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel shoulder season (March-May, November)
- Use chapas (local minibuses) instead of private transfers
- Eat at local quiosques, not tourist restaurants
- Book community-owned tours (often 30-50% cheaper)
- Self-cater from markets (fresh fish, produce)
- Share dhow safari costs with other travelers
September 2, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Mozambique is relatively affordable compared with other African beach destinations. Budget travelers can spend about $30–50 per day, while mid-range travelers should expect around $80–120 per day.