TRAVEL GUIDE
AIR TRAVEL
Flying to Inhambane International Airport
Inhambane International Airport is located just 22 km from Farol da Barra Lodge. For flight schedules and details, please contact the airport directly.
Airport Transfers: If you require a transfer from the airport to the lodge, please arrange this with Julie at least one month before your arrival.
SHUTTLE SERVICE
Shuttle to Inhambane
For guests who prefer not to drive, Cheetah Express Tours offers a convenient shuttle service from Nelspruit to Inhambane.
Contact Details: For more information, please call +258 84 954 6100 or contact Dino directly at +258 84 244 2103.
Travel by road
4x4 Recommended
General Information
Border Crossing and Travel Duration: Expect an 8-9 hour drive from either the Komatipoort/Lebombo or Kozi Bay border posts to Paz do Pai Lodge, following designated speed limits.
Vehicle Requirements:
A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended for navigating the roads near the lodge and in the surrounding area. If you’re not in a 4x4, please contact our lodge manager, Julie.
Deflating Tire Pressure:
Once you reach the red road/sand road, deflate your tires to 1.2 bar and keep them at this pressure throughout your stay to navigate the sandy terrain more easily.
Enjoy your stay at Farol da Barra Lodge and the beautiful surroundings!
Directions to Farol da Barra Lodge
For travelers heading to Mozambique, this guide focuses on the Lebombo border post at Komatipoort, located about 85 km from Maputo.
Route: Via the New Ring Road in Maputo.
1. Cross the Border: After crossing into Mozambique, head towards Maputo on the EN4 road.
Toll Fees:
- Moamba Toll Plaza: Mt 210
- Matola Gare Plaza: Mt 40
- Cumbeza: Mt 40
- Chicumbane: Mt 50
- Chidenguele: Mt 50
- Nhacunde: Mt 50
2. Matola River: Drive until you reach the Matola River.
- Take the newly paved ring road leading to EN1 at Zimpeto. Turn left towards Maraquene.
- Speed Limit: Do not exceed 60 km/h, and be cautious of traffic circles.
- If you’re unsure of the route, download a detailed map from DriveMoz on Facebook or use the Zello App for assistance.
Important Directions:
1. Stay on the EN1 until you reach Lindela.
- At Lindela, you’ll see St. Antonio’s accommodation on your left and a police checkpoint on your right, where the road forks.
- Turn right towards Inhambane, being cautious of a poorly marked junction on the left. Turn off your GPS from this point, as it may lead you onto challenging detours.
2. Continue for 24 km: Look for a sign for Farol da Barra Lodge.
- Follow the GPS from this point.
Traveling by Road to Farol da Barra
Driving to Farol da Barra: Traveling by road from the south to Farol da Barra Lodge (570 km from Maputo) is safe and enjoyable for those prepared for a scenic journey.
Safety Tips: Be cautious, as road conditions vary. Do not travel at night due to unmarked roads, limited lighting, unroadworthy vehicles, and the presence of pedestrians, animals, bicycles, and other road users. Always stay alert for children near the road.
Third-Party Insurance: Purchase third-party insurance online before you travel. For more information, visit [DriveMoz](https://www.drivemoz.co.za/mozambique-3rd-party-insurance.html).
Passport Stamps: Ensure your passport is stamped correctly at the border. Missing stamps can result in fines when exiting the country.
Medical Coverage: Check if your medical aid covers you in Mozambique.
Traffic Rules: Adhere to all traffic rules, as spot fines can be substantial.
If Stopped by Officials: Remain calm, polite, and assertive. Never offer a bribe.
Money Safety: Keep minimal cash and only your driver’s license in your wallet; store the rest securely.
By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable drive to Farol da Barra Lodge.
Traveling by Road to Farol da Barra
Ensure your vehicle is equipped with the following:
Reflective Jackets: Keep two on hand—one on the dashboard and one on the seat.
Emergency Triangles: Two required.
Fire Extinguisher: Check for a valid service date.
ZA Sticker: Display at the back of your vehicle.
Towing Requirements:
- Small blue and yellow sticker on the front bumper (right side).
- Large blue and yellow sticker on the back right of trailer/boat.
Additional Tips:
- Safety Belts: Required for all passengers, even when sleeping.
- DriveMoz Stickers: Register and purchase at [DriveMoz](https://www.drivemoz.co.za/drivemoz-stickers.html).
The **Zello App** for travel assistance is highly recommended.
Required Paperwork for Mozambique
Ensure you carry the following original documents and certified copies (keep them separately):
Passport
Unabridged Birth Certificates for children (be aware of travel rules)
ID Card
Driver’s License (check expiry date)
Vehicle Registration Papers
Letter of Consent from your insurance company for border crossing and use in Mozambique
Bank Consent Letter if your vehicle is financed
Third-Party Insurance
Temporary Import Permit for the vehicle (available at the Mozambique border for a fee)
Having these documents on hand will help ensure a smooth border crossing.
Important Tips for Border Crossing
Gate Pass: As you exit South Africa, you’ll receive a gate pass. Only give this to the official inside the building.
At the Counter: Hand over your passport for a photo and fingerprint scan. Double-check your passport stamp for the correct date before leaving.
Vehicle Security: Lock your car with the remote and confirm it’s secure.
Money Exchange: Avoid street exchanges; use official exchange points.
Windows and Belongings: Keep windows closed to prevent theft. Avoid leaving valuables visible.
Ignore Non-Officials: Interact only with official personnel.
STOP-OVER in Maputu
If you're travelling from Gauteng or KwaZulu-Natal, a stopover in Maputo is recommended to rest and recharge before the final 8-hour drive to Farol da Barra Lodge.
Nelson’s Place: Located near the end of the Maputo Ring Road at Zimpeto's Central Market, Nelson’s Place is a comfortable and affordable option with an on-site restaurant.
This unique apartment hotel provides quality service in a quiet, relaxing environment.
Situated in the peaceful suburb of Kumbeza, it offers easy access to major highways, the Maputo-Matola link, Marracuene Village (EN1 Highway), and is a short drive to Costa do Sol Beach and the Catembe Bridge.
All apartments are fully equipped with modern amenities for your comfort.
Contact Information:
Address: 281, Q6, Celula A, Kumbeza, Marracuene
Email: info@nelsonsplacemoz.com or bookings@nelsonsplacemoz.com
Telephone: +258 845 199 838 or +258 843 307 644
A stopover at Nelson’s Place can make your journey to Farol da Barra Lodge more enjoyable and stress-free.
STOP-OVER in Chidenguele (Just After Xai-Xai)
If you’d like a break before reaching Farol da Barra Lodge, consider a stopover in Chidenguele, approximately 4 hours from the lodge. Here are two convenient options, both with restaurants on-site:
Zona Braza Beach Lodge: A comfortable choice for an overnight stay with a relaxing beach atmosphere and restaurant.
Contact: +258 84 763 3076 / +258 85 048 2455
Sunset Beach Resort: Another convenient stopover, offering accommodations with an on-site restaurant.
Contact: +258 86 357 3296
Both options provide a restful experience before continuing your journey to Farol da Barra Lodge.
FOLLOW ALONG
Farol da Barra
Mozambique, 1039
office@faroldabarra.co.mz
+258 87 290 8888
© 2024 by Good Story and Co.
Built and Hosted by MSS
FOLLOW ALONG
Farol da Barra
Mozambique, 1039
office@faroldabarra.co.mz
+258 87 290 8888
© 2024 by Good Story and Co.
Built and Hosted by MSS