Travel Tips when travelling to Bilene, Mozambique
Thu, 11 May 2023
Mozambique's popularity as a holiday destination stems from its affordability, stunning scenery, and magnificent beaches. However, travelling to an unfamiliar country can be intimidating, despite the allure of a tropical paradise. These tips will help make your holiday planning easier.
Plan for the weather
When planning a trip to Bilene, Mozambique, it's crucial to consider the weather conditions. The tropical climate means hot, humid summers and mild winters, so pack essentials such as suitable clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent for your comfort. To have a truly unforgettable holiday experience in this idyllic coastal town, also take into account the activities that you prefer to experience during your stay.
Dry season: Bilene's dry season typically occurs from April to November, with June to August being the coolest months. During this time, there is generally less rainfall and lower humidity, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. A few favourites among holidaymakers include water sports at the Bilene lagoon, experiencing a sundowner cruise, or enjoying an interesting excursion with Turtle Cliff Guided Tours.
Wet season: The wet season in Bilene usually falls between December and March, with January and February being the peak months of rainfall. While the weather during this time can be hot and humid, with frequent rain showers, it can also bring lush greenery and blooming flowers. The lagoon may also be fuller, providing picturesque scenery.
High season vs. low season: Bilene can be more crowded during the dry season, especially in the months of July to September. On the other hand, the wet season, particularly December and January, may be considered the low season, with fewer tourists. Whatever the weather, the activities and facilities offered at San Martinho Beach Club can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Respect the local community
When planning your trip to Bilene, remember that the Lingua Franca of this amazing country is Mozambican Portuguese. To make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable, it's a good idea to learn a few basic phrases, although English is widely spoken.
Not only will it be helpful in communicating with locals, but it can also demonstrate respect for the local customs, traditions, and people.
Be mindful of the environment
San Martinho Beach Club is located on the pristine shores of Bilene's lagoon, so it's important to be environmentally conscious. Avoid littering, use eco-friendly products (as best as possible), and keep the beach clean.
The lagoon is home to diverse marine life, including corals, fish, and other aquatic creatures. It's important to practice responsible snorkelling or diving, avoiding touching or damaging the marine ecosystem, and following any guidelines to protect the environment.
Practice water safety
The lagoon at Bilene is popular for water-based activities, but always exercise caution when swimming or participating in water sports. Follow safety guidelines and be aware of potential hazards such as strong currents, wildlife, and other guests participating in various water activities.
Try local cuisine
Mozambican cuisine is diverse and delicious, with influences from Portuguese, Indian, and African flavours. Don't miss the opportunity to try local dishes, such as peri-peri chicken, fresh seafood, and matapa (a traditional dish made with cassava leaves). And no holiday in Mozambique is complete without trying pão, scrumptious bread rolls freshly baked in wood-fired ovens by the local village bakers.
Carry a photocopy of your passport
It's always a good idea to keep your original passport in a secure location, which is why it's recommended to carry a photocopy of your passport with you when exploring Bilene. This can be helpful in case of loss or theft, and as a backup.
All visitors to Mozambique must possess a passport valid for at least six months and visas are required by everyone except SADC citizens (Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Tanzania, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe). Visas can be obtained at most Mozambican borders; however, we strongly advise that you obtain your visas in advance from your nearest Mozambican Embassy.
Bring cash in local currency
Bilene is a small town, and while San Martinho Beach Club may accept credit cards, it's always a good idea to carry some cash in the local currency, Mozambican Metical (MZN), for small purchases, transportation, or in case of emergencies. Luckily, there are two banks in Bilene where you can exchange your currency into MZN. You will also need your passport when exchanging any currencies at the bank.
On the other hand, since Bilene is in the southern part of Mozambique, the South African Rand (ZAR) and the US Dollar (USD) are widely accepted currencies.
Tech not to forget
In this modern age, technology has become an indispensable part of our daily lives, even when we are on holiday. While our resort offers WiFi to keep you connected, there may also be a few additional devices you may want to bring along to enhance your holiday experience.
Universal power adapter: Mozambique uses Type C, F, and M electrical outlets, so if you plan to bring any electronic devices that require charging, such as smartphones, cameras, or laptops, a universal power adapter will ensure that you can plug them in and charge them without any issues.
Waterproof phone case or pouch: The beautiful lagoon offers opportunities for water-based activities, such as swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. Having a waterproof phone case or pouch can help protect your phone from water damage, allowing you to capture memorable moments without worrying about water exposure.
Portable charger or power bank: Keeping your electronic devices charged can be essential when travelling, especially if you plan to be out and about for extended periods. A portable charger or power bank can be handy to keep your devices charged on the go, particularly during outdoor activities or in case of power outages.
Action camera or GoPro: The stunning natural beauty of the Bilene lagoon hosts an array of fun and exciting water sports. An action camera or GoPro can help you capture some of the most remarkable images of the vibrant marine life in the lagoon. You can also take action shots while enjoying the water sports such as kayaking, lagoon windsurfing, and other memorable moments during your adventures. With that said, Bilene offers an idyllic getaway in a tropical paradise. With its magnificent landscapes, stunning beaches, and thrilling adventures waiting to be experienced, proper preparation ensures that your holiday experience is nothing short of amazing.