• Don't head straight out of Maputo: it's one of Africa's more appealing capitals, with wide avenues, relaxed street cafes and a lively cultural scene. The city museum and market are worth a look, as are the Central Railway Station and curious ‘Iron House', both designed by Gustave Eiffel.

• Hop across to tiny Ilha de Moçambique (Mozambique Island), near Nampula in the north. It is a fascinating place, dotted with 17th- and 18th-century buildings and mosques, many of them from the colonial Portuguese period. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Don't miss the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago, which comprises five tropical islands plus surrounding islets and coral reefs, 20km (12 miles) from coast of Vilanculos and Inhassoro. This beautiful area features white sandy beaches, clear waters and rich marine life including the dugong (manatee).

• Explore the jewel in Mozambique's protected parks, the Gorongosa National Park (website: www.gorongosa.net), 80km (50 miles) northwest of Beira and open from April to October. Access is provided by an airstrip at Chitengo. Expect superb birdwatching, and glimpses of buffalo, elephant, hippos, zebra and more.

• Take a trip to the Maputo National Reserve, also known as Maputo Elephant Park, which is on the Maputo River, 79km (49 miles) south of the city. It's also home to leopard, antelope, crocodiles, hippos, flamingoes and jackals.

• Hop on a boat over to Inhaca Island (near Maputo), which has 40km (25 miles) of beaches and reefs, a historic lighthouse and a museum of marine biology.

• Bask in the sun and balmy sea waters of Quirimbas National Park (website: www.wwf.org.mz). Dive and snorkel off its shores to appreciate the park's abundant marine life and coral reefs. Quirimbas is also home to a variety of land-bound wildlife.

• Visit Pemba, a vibrant coastal town in a huge bay. It has some wonderful beaches and coral reefs. The most popular beach is Wimbe, just outside town. The town also claims an interesting old town, some lively bars and good restaurants. 

• Venture out to the little-visited Marromeu National Park, at the mouth of the Zambesi River in Sofala Province to see buffalo and birds galore.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.