Beira

Beira is Mozambique's second-largest city and the capital of Sofala Province, a major Indian Ocean port and transport hub. The city was developed by the Portuguese as a gateway to the interior of central Africa, with rail connections to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi. Beira has a grand colonial-era centre with wide avenues, markets, and a working port. The city is also the gateway to Gorongosa National Park and the beaches of the Sofala coast. Beira has a vibrant, practical energy and some of the best restaurants in Mozambique outside Maputo.

By Plane

Beira Airport (BEW) receives flights from Maputo (LAM, 2 hours), Johannesburg, and other regional destinations. The airport is 8 km from the centre; a taxi costs around 500 MZN.

By Train

Beira is the terminus of the Beira–Harare railway line. A twice-weekly passenger service runs to Chimoio.

By Car / Road

Beira is on the EN6 highway, 200 km east of Chimoio (3 hours). The road is paved and in reasonable condition. Buses run frequently from Maputo, Chimoio, and Gorongosa.

The city centre is walkable. Moto-taxis and chapas are the main forms of public transport.

• Macuti Lighthouse — An iconic 19th-century lighthouse at the tip of the Macuti peninsula, with panoramic coastal views.

• Beira Cathedral — A striking modernist cathedral in the city centre.

• Mercado Central — Beira's huge central market, selling everything from seafood to capulanas.

• Praia de Macuti — A long beach on the peninsula, popular for walks and swimming.

• Casa Infante de Sagres — A historic colonial building housing a cultural centre.

• Railway station — An early 20th-century station building reflecting the city's rail history.

• Explore the central market — One of the largest and busiest markets in Mozambique.

• Beach walks on Macuti peninsula — Enjoy the sea breeze and views.

• Visit Gorongosa National Park — A 3-hour drive from Beira.

• Dine at the waterfront restaurants — Beira has excellent seafood restaurants.

• Clube Naval — A waterfront restaurant serving excellent seafood and Portuguese dishes. Mains from 400 MZN.
• Restaurante Sol Nascente — Popular for grilled fish and prawns.
• Mercado Central food stalls — Inexpensive xima, matapa, and grilled fish.
• Pastelarias — Portuguese-style bakeries with good coffee and pastries.

Bars around the city centre serve local beer. The Clube Naval has a pleasant bar overlooking the water.

• Budget: Beira Backpackers — Dorms from $15/night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Tivoli Beira — Comfortable rooms in the city centre, from $70/night.
• Upscale: Hotel Dona Ana — Colonial-era hotel with character and pool, from $100/night.

The Mercado Central is excellent for fresh seafood, capulanas, and local crafts. Supermarkets stock imported goods.

• Gorongosa National Park (200 km northwest, 3 hours) — One of Africa's greatest wildlife parks.
• Chimoio (200 km west, 3 hours) — Capital of Manica Province, gateway to Chimanimani.
• Dondo (30 km west) — Industrial town.
• Caia (150 km north) — Zambezi River bridge crossing.