Things To Do
in Palma
Palma is a coastal town located in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a tropical paradise. Palma is also home to a diverse population, with a blend of cultural influences from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
The town's economy is largely driven by tourism, fishing, and agriculture, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors to enjoy.
- "Ola" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Praia do Tofu, known for its clear waters and white sand. Spend the morning swimming and sunbathing.
Grab lunch at a beachside restaurant and try local seafood dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the coastline and enjoy the views.
End the day with a sunset walk on the beach. Grab dinner at a local grill and indulge in fresh catches of the day.
Take an early morning boat trip to the Quirimbas National Park. Explore its unique biodiversity and beautiful landscapes.
Have a picnic lunch in a scenic spot within the park. Spend the afternoon hiking and observing wildlife.
Return to Palma and unwind with a drink at a local bar. Enjoy traditional music and dance performances to immerse yourself in the culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and pristine natural scenery.
- Rich cultural history and vibrant local communities.
- Growing tourism industry with opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Access to unique wildlife and marine biodiversity.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities.
- Exposure to tropical storms and cyclones.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates.
- Potential language barriers, as Portuguese is the primary language.
- Limited access to international flights and transportation.
Best Activities in Palma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful coral reefs and marine life at some of the best snorkeling spots in Palma, Mozambique.
Enjoy long walks along the pristine beaches of Palma, Mozambique, and collect shells and marine treasures.
Engage in a fishing excursion to catch a variety of fish species in the abundant waters around Palma, Mozambique.
Discover the diverse bird species in the Palma area, from coastal birds to inland species in the surrounding forests and wetlands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Palma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Palma
Visit one of these nice places.
Located off the coast of Maputo, Inhaca Island offers stunning coastal views, clear turquoise waters, and fantastic opportunities for photography.
This beautiful beach is known for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to capture amazing sunsets and marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays.
The peninsula boasts breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean, pristine beaches, and opportunities to photograph unique coastal landscapes and wildlife.
Food in Palma
Palma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Mozambican dish made from cassava leaves, ground peanuts, coconut milk, and spices. It is often served with rice and accompanied by grilled fish or prawns. Notable restaurants offering Matapa include Casa Velha and Zambi.
Must-Try!
Prawns marinated in a spicy Piri Piri sauce and grilled to perfection. This dish can be savored at beachside eateries like Palma Residencial or in local seafood shacks along the coast.
A flavorful dish consisting of chicken marinated in a mix of garlic, lime, and spices, then grilled and served with a side of flavorful piri piri sauce. It is widely available at eateries like Restaurante Al-Mundo and Savana Urban Kitchen.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central food market where visitors can explore a vibrant array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Street food vendors around the market offer an authentic taste of Mozambican cuisine, including freshly grilled seafood, samosas, and traditional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Palma, Mozambique, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It is important to show respect to elders by greeting them first and using appropriate titles. It is also common to use both hands when giving or receiving items as a sign of respect.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Palma. It is important to address older individuals using their titles and to show deference in both speech and action. Seeking their advice and listening attentively to their wisdom is also a sign of respect.
When visiting Palma, it is important to dress modestly and avoid clothing that may be considered revealing or inappropriate in the local culture. Wearing traditional Mozambican attire or clothing that is considered respectful in the community is a way to show cultural sensitivity and respect for the local norms.
Safety
Tipping in Palma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Palma, Mozambique, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some tourist-oriented establishments, a service charge may be included in the bill. If not, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Palma, Mozambique. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially outside of major hotels and resorts. It's advisable to carry enough cash for smaller purchases and transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Palma, Mozambique with clear skies, low humidity, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Expect heavy rainfall, lush green landscapes, and a higher chance of encountering migratory birds in Palma, Mozambique during this season.
Palma at Night
Hiking in Palma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest mountain in Mozambique, offering challenging trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
While known for its beaches, it also offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the ocean and unique wildlife.
A biodiversity hotspot featuring a variety of trails through lush forests, savannas, and along the Great Rift Valley.
This mountain range provides numerous hiking opportunities with rich flora and fauna, perfect for both seasoned hikers and beginners.
A lesser-known hiking spot with beautiful landscapes and a chance to explore local wildlife in a serene setting.
Aiports
How to reach Palma by plane.
The largest airport in Mozambique, located in the capital city of Maputo, approximately 530 kilometers from Palma.
An international airport serving the city of Beira, located around 900 kilometers south of Palma.
An international airport in Nampula, situated about 500 kilometers southwest of Palma.
Located in Pemba, this airport is approximately 200 kilometers from Palma, offering connections to domestic and international flights.
An international airport in Tete Province, around 800 kilometers southwest of Palma.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in the region, primarily consisting of individuals from the Tsonga ethnic group.
The Makua people represent one of the largest ethnic groups in northern Mozambique, including Palma.
A group associated with the Tsonga culture, prevalent in the area surrounding Palma.
Although not as predominant as other groups, Sena speakers contribute to the cultural diversity of Palma.
Due to colonial history, Portuguese is spoken by a segment of the population and is used in government and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Palma, Mozambique, with local teams participating in regional leagues and communities coming together to support their favorite clubs.
Basketball has been growing in popularity in Palma, with local courts available for youth and adults, and school competitions fostering talent.
Volleyball is commonly played on beaches and in schools, promoting healthy outdoor activity and community engagement.
Athletics, including running and track events, is encouraged in schools and community events, with local athletes competing at various levels.
Martial arts, especially traditional forms, have a presence in Palma, with classes available for children and adults interested in self-defense and fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Palma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Mozambican cuisine traditionally features meat and seafood, numerous restaurants in Palma offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Savana Urban Kitchen and Casa Velha provide a selection of flavorful plant-based options, such as grilled vegetable skewers and coconut-based curries.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable meals at various restaurants in Palma. Many establishments offer gluten-free alternatives and are accommodating to dietary needs upon request.