Discovered by Vasco Da Gama back in 1498, Mozambique has over the past decade managed to make a name for itself as one of the world’s top tourist destinations for a number of reasons. With a turbulent history marked by political and social struggles, the African country is a true hotpot of cultural identities and one of the finest tropical destinations for lovers of aquatic fun, powdery beaches and azure ocean waters. Before you start packing your bags, take a quick look at the brief overview of Mozambique’s history, climate, natural attractions and leisure activities: we guarantee you will love every minute spent in this exotic country.
History of Mozambique
In the early 16th century, the Portuguese managed to establish a foothold in Mozambique in terms of administration and trade by creating of prazos (land grants). Although the colonizers saw a gradual expansion of influence in the next few decades, pushing back Muslim Arab slave traders in the coastline areas, the situation began to change toward the end of the 17th century when the Arabs seized Fort Jesus, Mombasa Island.
From that point onwards, the Portuguese slowly shifted administrative powers to major private companies, but the ten-year War of Independence which began in 1964 eventually led to mass Portuguese immigration, declaration of Mozambique independence in 1975 and introduction of one-party system founded on Marxist principles. Nevertheless, the peace was short-lived: two years upon the ending of war for liberation, a civil war ripped the country apart, ultimately resulting in millions of refugees, replacement of Marxist ideologies with capitalism and election of democratic government. In 1995, Mozambique became the first non-British former colony to join the Commonwealth of Nations, and its economy has since been steadily recovering through development of industry and tourism.