Places / Africa / Mozambique
Nampula
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At a glance
- Country
- Mozambique
- Region
- Nampula Province
- Population
- around 750,000
- Best time to go
- May to October
- Main airport
- Nampula (APL)
- Coordinates
- 15.12°S, 39.27°E
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Overview
Nampula is the largest city in northern Mozambique and the region's main transport hub, set among dramatic granite domes rising from the plains. Most travellers pass through on their way to the coast.
The city has a handful of worthwhile sights and good markets, and it is the best jumping-off point for the UNESCO-listed Ilha de Moçambique. Check the latest UK government advice before travelling, as some districts in the north of the province are affected by insecurity.
Things to see
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Photo: Themisterpaps, CC BY-SA 4.0 Nampula Cathedral
A large white cathedral dedicated to Our Lady of Fátima, the most prominent building in the city centre.
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Photo: Marilena Streit-Bianchi, CC BY-SA 4.0 National Museum of Ethnology
Displays of Makua and Makonde carving, masks, instruments and everyday objects from across the north.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Ek2030372672, CC BY-SA 4.0 Granite inselbergs
Huge rounded rock outcrops surround the city, especially striking on the road east towards the coast.
Things to do
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Photo: Stig Nygaard from Copenhagen, Denmark, CC BY 2.0 Day trip to Ilha de Moçambique
The former Portuguese capital, a coral island of old stone houses and a great fortress, is about three hours east.
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Browse the markets
Look for carvings, capulana fabrics and baskets, and sample cashews and fresh fruit.
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Photo: Photo by MatthiasKabel, CC BY-SA 3.0 Craft workshops
Local carvers near the museum work in wood and ebony; it is worth watching them before buying.
Where to stay
City centre
Close to the cathedral, museum and restaurants, with the best choice of business hotels.
Hotels in City centreNear the airport road
A few newer hotels suit those with early flights or onward road trips.
Hotels in Near the airport road
Getting around
Use taxis booked through your hotel rather than flagging them down, and avoid walking at night.
The airport is a short drive from the city centre, around 10 minutes by taxi; long-distance buses also link Nampula with the coast.
When to go
The dry season from May to October is the most comfortable, with sunny days and cooler nights. November to April is hot and wet.
Plan your trip to Nampula
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.