Excursion Afternoon high tea & city sightseeing tour at Maputo

Upon departing the harbour, you will pass the beautiful Train Station. Built in 1910 by Gustave Eiffel, architect of the Eiffel Tower, this landmark is definitely an architectural highlight of Maputo. You will then proceed past the local Maputo market, where the locals barter for a variety of goods and foods.

Afternoon High Tea

Transfer directly to the 5-star Polana Hotel, located in the upmarket Polana area. Here, enjoy a scrumptious high tea which includes a selection of freshly baked items and sandwiches.

Maputo City Sightseeing

Thereafter proceed to the focal point in the city, the Praca de Independencia or Independence Square. Around it are a statue of the country's first president, Samora Machel, the gleaming white Roman Catholic cathedral, the neo-classical City Hall and the French-Mozambican cultural centre, a splendid old colonial building which has been tastefully restored and now presents art exhibitions. You will also view the weird and wonderful concept of a house made entirely out of iron - very impractical for the hot African summers.

Continue on past the Tundura Gardens - located off Avenue Samora Machel as you make your way back to the quayside.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Train Station, Local Market, Polana Hotel, Independence Square, Cathedral, City Hall, Cultural Centre, Iron House, Tundura Gardens

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate at the sites visited and to get on/off the coach. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair, able to manage a few steps with the assistance of a travel partner. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Mozambique is a third-world country and although it offers a rewarding experience, it differs markedly from South Africa in all aspects. Guests are advised that there is no formal guiding qualification required for Mozambique, therefore we support the local community by using local escorts/guides. Most of these escorts/guides have many years of experience in guiding for visiting cruise ships. The coaches are maintained, although basic, and the quality can vary considerably and may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. Whilst the roads are tarred, there are many with potholes. There are also a number of bumpy dirt roads. Some of the monuments and attractions encountered on this tour fall under the category of "military or state defence objects'. Photography of these monuments and attractions is strictly prohibited, and you may face serious problems by ignoring these rules. Therefore, please ask your tour guides before photographing such sites. The tour sequence may vary.