Where is Mozambique ?
Mozambique is a country located on the southeastern coast of Africa, facing the Indian Ocean. It lies between the latitudes of about 10°S and 27°S, and the longitudes of about 30°E and 41°E.
Mozambique shares borders with six other nations:
- Tanzania to the north,
- Malawi and Zambia to the northwest,
- Zimbabwe to the west,
- Eswatini (Swaziland) and South Africa to the southwest.
Mozambique's eastern coastline, which stretches for approximately 2,470 kilometers (1,535 miles), is washed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and is home to many ports and beaches.
The capital of Mozambique is Maputo, which is located in the southern part of the country, near the border with South Africa and Eswatini. Maputo serves as the country's main economic, political, and cultural center. It is situated on the western shore of Maputo Bay, allowing it access to the Indian Ocean, and is a key point for trade and commerce both within the region and internationally.
Mozambique - the capital Maputo
The full official name of Mozambique's capital is Maputo.
Formerly named Lourenço Marques until 1976, following Mozambique's independence from Portuguese colonial rule, Maputo was rechristened to reflect its indigenous roots and heritage. This cosmopolitan city buzzes with life against a backdrop of historical architecture, echoing with tales from its colonial past through to its contemporary rebirth.
The proximity of Maputo to other key cities in the region underlines its significance as a vital hub for travel and commerce in southeastern Africa. Here are some distances from Maputo to other African capitals and prominent cities in the region:
- Johannesburg, South Africa: Approximately 541 kilometers (336 miles) to the west of Maputo, which is an estimated 7 to 8-hour drive.
- Pretoria, South Africa (the administrative capital): Roughly 556 kilometers (345 miles) to the west, with a driving time of about 7 to 8 hours.
- Gaborone, Botswana: Approximately 908 kilometers (564 miles) to the west, usually requiring around a 12 to 13-hour drive.
- Harare, Zimbabwe: About 1,039 kilometers (645 miles) to the northwest of Maputo, generally an estimated 13 to 15-hour journey by road.
- Lilongwe, Malawi: Located approximately 1,470 kilometers (913 miles) to the north-northwest, it typically takes around 20 hours to travel by car.
- Durban, South Africa: Roughly 762 kilometers (473 miles) to the south, which is typically a drive of about 10 to 11 hours.
- Mbabane, Eswatini: Situated around 184 kilometers (114 miles) to the southwest, with a drive time of about 2.5 to 3 hours.