Where Is Maputo located?

Maputo's Place by the Water

The city lies in a spot called Maputo Bay, which is part of the Indian Ocean. The water here is the eastern border of the city, so there's plenty of coast. To the city's north and north-west, you'll find other districts of Mozambique — places called Marracuene and Manhiça. South of Maputo is Matutuíne, and to the west is Moamba. These are like its neighbours in the next streets. Maputo also has nearby international neighbours; it's not far from the countries of South Africa and Eswatini.

A Coastal City with Islands and a Port

Maputo has a pretty coastline with lots of small islands dotting the ocean nearby. These little islands add to the scenic beauty of the place. One of the big features of Maputo is its port. 

Maputo as a Crossroads

This city isn't just a spot on a map; it's a key player in the area. There's a big road called the Maputo Corridor that connects the city to its neighbours. It's like a busy high street that helps people trade goods and travel in and out of the country.

Low and Flat: Maputo's Landscape

The city isn't hilly; it's mostly flat and just above the level of the sea. In some parts, especially as you go north, it gets a little higher. There's also a river called the Maputo River which flows by and adds to the geography of the city.

Maputo is where many paths cross — it's a mix of different cultures, bustling economic activities, and home to varied plants and animals. The place where it sits has shaped its history and how important it is today.

 Road distances from Maputo to various Southern African cities 

1. Johannesburg, South Africa

• Distance: Approximately 540 kilometers (336 miles)

• Description: This drive takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on border crossing and traffic conditions.

1. Gaborone, Botswana

• Distance: Approximately 900 kilometers (559 miles)

• Description: Expect a journey of around 11 to 12 hours, typically through major road networks including potential stops for rest.

1. Durban, South Africa

• Distance: Around 600 kilometers (373 miles)

• Description: The drive takes about 7 to 8 hours, making Durban within a day's reach from Maputo.

1. Cape Town (Kapstadt), South Africa

• Distance: Approximately 2,100 kilometers (1,300 miles)

• Description: This extensive journey can take around 24 to 26 hours by road, often necessitating overnight stops.

1. Windhoek, Namibia

• Distance: About 1,835 kilometers (1,140 miles)

• Description: Driving to Windhoek takes approximately 24 to 26 hours, typically requiring breaks and overnight stays.

1. Harare, Zimbabwe

• Distance: About 1,230 kilometers (764 miles)

• Description: This drive generally takes around 15 to 16 hours, covering significant parts of Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

1. Lusaka, Zambia

• Distance: Approximately 1,630 kilometers (1,013 miles)

• Description: The journey to Lusaka can take around 20 to 22 hours, often broken into multiple days for comfort.

1. Lilongwe, Malawi

• Distance: Approximately 1,375 kilometers (854 miles)

• Description: Expect a drive time of around 18 to 20 hours, often split over two days due to the distance and road conditions.

1. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

• Distance: Around 2,200 kilometers (1,367 miles)

• Description: This extensive drive takes about 30 to 32 hours, usually involving multiple days and potential route planning for overnight stops.

1. Luanda, Angola

• Distance: Approximately 3,700 kilometers (2,299 miles)

• Description: Traveling by road to Luanda is a significant commitment, generally taking around 45 to 48 hours of driving, usually spread over several days due to the vast distance and varying road conditions.