Catembe FAQ, Mozambique

No, you can drive a regular 2WD without the need of high ground clearance to Catembe even if you are travelling north from the Kosi Bay / Ponta do Ouro border post.

We always recommend you enter Mozambique in a 4x4 because you won't be limited to where you can travel as well as the possibility of getting stuck. Note: Some borders require a 4x4 to cross. Read more about the border you are travelling through here: Mozambique Borders & Times.

For soft / loose sand driving, we recommend you deflate your tire pressures to about 1.4 bar.

The drive from Johannesburg to Catembe is ±567km when entering Mozambique via the Komatipoort / Lebombo border post.
The drive from Durban to Catembe is ±542km when entering Mozambique via the Kosi Bay / Ponta do Ouro border post.

When travelling and calculating time, please consider the border opening times, ques and the time it takes at the border, speed limits, poor road conditions, weather etc.

Yes, but really to Maputo International Airport which is 28km from Catembe. This is the easiest and fastest way to get to Catembe. Flights depart to / from Johannesburg and Maputo on a daily basis.

Yes, though your flight will most likely fly via Johannesburg and then to the Maputo International Airport 28km from Catembe.

Only citizens from Mozambique's neighbouring countries are exempt from visas to travel to Mozambique for leisure, however overseas visitors will have to obtain visas at the airport upon arrival (approximately US$ 50.00 per person - prices are subject to change - please contact the airport for more information regarding visa prices).

Yes, but in Maputo 20km from Catembe where there are companies that hire out. Visitors can hire 2 wheel drives or 4x4's. Keep an eye out for the these car hire companies in Maputo:

Euro rent: +258 21485572/3
Espresso rent a car: +258 21431663
Avis: +258 21467007
Imperial: +258 21418878

Yes you can and even your vehicle. Locate the Vodacom Ferry Dock (GPS: -25.976475, 32.569088) near the new Maputo Katembe Bridge which will take you on a fun ferry ride with magnificent Maputo skyline and ocean views for nearly a kilometer before departing in Catembe.

No, but Maputo has all the banking facilities you need 20km and on the other side of the Maputo Katembe Bridge.

We advise you confirm prior with the lodge / hotel you're staying at if they offer credit card facilities. Otherwise cash is only accepted in small shops and markets.

Yes, there are little road-side markets selling freshly caught fish, produce and other food supplies but Maputo nearby has absolutely everything you need including large supermarkets such as Woolworths, Game, Shopright and many local markets in town that sell fresh produce, fruit and fish.

We also advise that you buy and take your own vacuum packed meat (if feasible) for the first night or 2 (if you are going to be self catering) in a cooler box with ice. Check with the lodge if they sell ice or if they have a freezer to store your meat during your stay.

Yes, Mozambique as a whole is a malaria risk area / country. We recommend you take precautions and visit your nearest doctor (you need a prescription for anti-malaria medication) to prescribe you with what's recommended before you leave for Mozambique.

It is strongly advised that you take other prophylactics like insect repellent sprays, mosquito coils, light long sleeve tops and bottoms to further prevent bites (especially during late afternoons, evenings and mornings).