Maputo Secure Transportation Services

Travel Risk Management and Secure Transport in Mozambique

ETS Risk Management has been coordinating travel risk management through secure ground transportation and Executive Protection services, for Energy companies, NGO’s and business travelers in Mozambique. With over 8 years experience in the region, we have provided logistics and secure transportation for executives attending corporate meetings, airport transfers including discreet meet and greet services, and risk management solutions for clients in Maputo.  ETS conducts risk assessment and due diligence as part of a comprehensive security plan to support all travel itineraries. Our competitive pricing, complemented with a world-class local security team and vehicle options, ensures the very highest standards of secure transportation.

ETS Security Overview - Mozambique 

Mozambique, located on the southeastern coast of Africa, is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful coastline, and vast natural resources. However, the country faces significant security challenges, including political instability, terrorism, violent crime, and natural disasters. Maputo, the capital of Mozambique and its largest city, is a bustling hub of economic, political, and cultural activity. While Maputo is generally lower risk than many other areas in Mozambique, particularly the northern regions affected by insurgency, the city still presents a range of security challenges. 

Crime is prevalent throughout the country including Maputo. Knife crime, robberies at gunpoint, car-jackings, and kidnappings are common. Foreign visitors including NGOs and tourists are frequently targeted due to their perceived wealth and unfamiliarity of the environment. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and theft, is common in crowded areas of Maputo, including markets, public transport hubs, and tourist spots like the central train station, the FEIMA arts and crafts market, and Avenida Julius Nyerere. Foreigners, including tourists and expatriates, are often targeted due to their perceived wealth. 

Maputo has seen an increase in organized crime activities, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and smuggling. While organized crime rarely targets tourists directly, the overall environment can lead to incidents of opportunistic crime, especially in poorer neighborhoods.   Violent crime, including armed robbery and carjackings, occurs in Maputo, particularly at night and in less populated areas. Incidents of home invasions and muggings have been reported, sometimes involving firearms or knives. Travelers should avoid walking alone at night, stick to well-lit areas, and use trusted transportation services, especially after dark.

Mozambique is facing a growing terrorism threat, particularly in the northern Cabo Delgado province, where Islamist extremist groups, including the Islamic State-affiliated group Ahlu Sunna Wal Jamaa, have been active since 2017. These groups have carried out violent attacks on civilians, security forces, and infrastructure, particularly in towns like Palma, Mocímboa da Praia, and surrounding areas. Cabo Delgado remains a high-risk area due to ongoing insurgency and violent extremism. Foreign nationals, including aid workers and contractors, have been targeted in attacks and kidnappings. The security situation in northern Mozambique is volatile, and travelers are advised to avoid this region entirely unless absolutely necessary and with significant security precautions in place. The southern and central regions, including Maputo, are generally more stable and less affected by extremist activity, but visitors should monitor any changes in the security environment.

Mozambique is prone to cyclones, particularly during the rainy season (November to March), although Maputo is less affected than the northern regions of the country. Cyclones can cause flooding, wind damage, and infrastructure disruptions. Travelers should monitor weather reports during cyclone season and follow local advice, including evacuation orders if necessary.

Heavy rains during the rainy season can lead to localized flooding in Maputo, particularly in low-lying areas. Flooding can disrupt transportation and access to certain parts of the city. Travelers should avoid flood-prone areas during the rainy season and follow any advisories issued by local authorities.

The standard of driving in Mozambique is very poor; traffic can be chaotic, and driving standards are low, with frequent accidents caused by poor vehicle maintenance, reckless driving, and pedestrians crossing roads. Due to the majority of vehicles being poorly maintained and dangerous road surfaces vehicles have a tendency to breakdown, this can result in travelers being stranded in unfamiliar surroundings.  There is a high risk of road traffic collisions (RTCs) due to the extreme driving conditions, unpredictable driving behavior and poor infrastructure.

Public transport, including buses and minibuses (chapas), is considered highly dangerous and traffic collisions (RTCs) are common. Drivers are untrained and lack regard for other road users or traffic laws. These forms of transportation are not recommended for tourists due to safety concerns, including high accident rates and the risk of petty crime. It is advisable to use licensed taxis, ride-hailing apps, or hire private secure transportation.

Secure Airport Transfers in Maputo  

ETS is available to support airport transfers in Maputo with local security drivers and executive protection teams. We facilitate secure transfers for a range of clients and are preferred suppliers to several Fortune 500 companies in the city. Our security teams provide a meet and greet service and secure onward transit to your hotel or vice versa.  

 

All clients utilizing our services get free access to the ExploreSecure® Travel Security Training.