Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ing the day or night; don't wander around isolated or dark streets; avoid walking alone or
in a group at dusk or at night, particularly in isolated areas or on isolated stretches of
beach; and avoid isolating situations in general. At all times of day, try to stick to busier
areas of town, especially if you are alone, and don't walk alone along the beach away
from hotel areas. If you're driving and your car is hijacked, hand over the keys immedi-
ately.
» When riding on chapas or buses, keep your valuables well inside your clothes to avoid
falling victim to unscrupulous entrepreneurs who take advantage of overcrowded condi-
tions to pick their fellow passengers' pockets.
» All this said, don't let these warnings deter you, simply be a savvy traveller. The vast
majority of visitors travel through this beautiful country without incident.
HASSLES & BRIBES
More likely than violent crime are simple hassles with underpaid authorities in search of a
bribe. The worst offenders here are regular (ie, gray uniformed non-traffic) police. If you
get stopped you should not have any problem as long as your papers are in order. Being
friendly, respectful and patient helps (you won't get anywhere otherwise), as does trying
to give the impression that you know what you're doing and aren't new in the country. So-
metimes the opposite tack is also helpful - feigning complete ignorance if you're told that
you've violated some regulation, and apologising profusely. It's also worth remembering
that only traffic police are authorised to stop you for traffic infractions. If stopped, keep in
mind that you can request to wait until a traffic police arrives. Often this will diffuse the
bribe attempt.
» If you are asked to pay a
multa
(fine) for a trumped-up charge, playing the game a bit
(asking to speak to the supervisor or
chefe,
and requesting a receipt) helps to counteract
some of the more blatant attempts, as does insisting on going to the nearest
esquadrão
(police station); you should always do these things anyway.
LANDMINES
Thanks to a massive demining effort, many of the unexploded landmines littering Mozam-
bique (a legacy of the country's long war) have been eliminated; however, mines are still a
risk in a few areas. To be on the safe side, stick to well-used paths, including on roadsides
in rural areas, and don't free camp or go wandering off into the bush without first seeking
local advice.
Areas that should always be avoided include the bases of bridges, old schools or aban-
doned buildings, and water tanks or other structures.
