Xai-Xai Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Xai-Xai, including the best things to do, where to stay, how to get there, and more.


Introduction to Xai-Xai

Xai-Xai is a coastal town located in Southern Mozambique, known for its sandy beaches and clear waters. The town was formerly known as João Belo, but was renamed Xai-Xai after Mozambique gained independence from Portugal in 1975. Today, it is a popular tourist destination for those seeking sun, sand, and sea.

List of Places to Visit in Xai-Xai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gaza Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Gaza Province, where Xai-Xai is located. The museum is located in the city of Xai-Xai, and is a great way to learn more about Mozambique’s heritage.
  • Fort of São Miguel: An old fort located on the beach. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 19th century and was used to protect the region from attacks by pirates and slave traders. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a great place to take photos.

Natural Attractions of Xai-Xai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Xai-Xai Beach: The most famous beach in Xai-Xai, known for its clear waters and sandy beaches. It is a great place to relax, swim or sunbathe.
  • The Lighthouse: The lighthouse is located near Xai-Xai beach and offers a spectacular view of the coastline. Visitors can climb up to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the view of Xai-Xai.
  • The Xai-Xai Reserve: A protected area located on the banks of the Limpopo River. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, hiking trails and fishing in the reserve.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Xai-Xai

  • The Xai Xai Circuit: A scenic bike route that takes you through Xai-Xai to Praia do Chonguene. The route is 45km long and offers stunning views of the coast.
  • The Lighthouse Hike: A short hike from Xai-Xai beach to the lighthouse. The hike takes about 40 minutes and offers great views of the coastline.
  • The Xai-Xai Reserve Trail: A hiking trail that takes visitors through the reserve, offering a unique look at the local flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Xai-Xai: Activities and Tours

  • Scuba Diving: Xai-Xai is a great location for scuba diving, with clear waters and an abundance of marine life.
  • Snorkeling: Visitors can enjoy snorkeling at Xai-Xai beach, where they can see a variety of fish and other marine life.
  • Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in Xai-Xai, with many visitors enjoying deep sea fishing or fishing in the Xai-Xai Reserve.

Week-Long Itinerary for Xai-Xai

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Xai-Xai, check-in to hotel
2 Scuba Diving or Snorkeling at Xai-Xai beach
3 Hike to the Lighthouse, take photos
4 Visit the Fort of São Miguel and the Gaza Museum
5 Visit the Xai-Xai Reserve and go on a boat tour
6 Relax at Xai-Xai Beach or go fishing
7 Departure from Xai-Xai

Food and Drink Scene of Xai-Xai

Must-Try Dishes

  • Matapa: A traditional dish made from cassava leaves, peanuts, coconut milk, and spices.
  • Pao: A type of bread roll that is commonly eaten for breakfast.
  • Peri-Peri Chicken: A local specialty, grilled or roasted chicken marinated in a sauce made with hot chili peppers, lemon, and garlic.

Local Beverages

  • R&R: A popular drink made from rum and raspberry soda.
  • 2M beer: A local Mozambican beer that is commonly consumed throughout the country.

Where to Stay in Xai-Xai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Sabores do Mar: A cozy guesthouse located near Xai-Xai Beach. It offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and free WiFi.
  • Coconuts: A beachfront hotel that offers comfortable rooms and apartments with sea views. It also has an outdoor pool and a bar.
  • Monte-Nhame Beach Lodge: A lodge located near the Xai-Xai Reserve. It offers spacious rooms with private bathrooms and sea views.

What to Buy in Xai-Xai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Capulanas: Colorful pieces of fabric that are commonly worn as clothing or used as blankets or curtains.
  • Handcrafted Jewelry: Local artisans make jewelry from beads and shells found on the beach.
  • Mozambican Coffee: Mozambique is known for its coffee, which is a great souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Xai-Xai

  • Greeting: The most common greeting in Mozambique is “bom dia,” which means “good day.”
  • Clothing: Similar to many African countries, clothing is an important aspect of Mozambican culture. Women wear capulanas, while men wear a traditional wraparound kanga.
  • Religion: The majority of Mozambicans are Christian, with a small Muslim population as well.

Best Time to Visit Xai-Xai

The best time to visit Xai-Xai is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach-going. The wet season runs from November to April, which can make outdoor activities more difficult and some places may be closed due to flooding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Xai-Xai

Do:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Buy wildlife products, as this encourages poaching.
  • Engage in drugs or prostitution, which are illegal in Mozambique.

Safety and Health

Safety in Xai-Xai

Xai-Xai is a relatively safe destination for tourists, but visitors should still be cautious and take necessary precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended on the beach, and avoiding traveling alone at night or in areas with low visibility. It is also advisable to consult with your hotel or hostel for any safety concerns in the area.

Health in Xai-Xai

Visitors to Xai-Xai should take precautionary measures to prevent mosquito bites, as malaria is present in the area. Tap water in Xai-Xai is not safe to drink, so it is best to stick to bottled water or boiled water. It is also recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before traveling to Mozambique.

Getting to Xai-Xai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Xai-Xai

The nearest airport to Xai-Xai is Maputo International Airport, located about two hours away by car. The airport serves both national and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Xai-Xai

The main bus station in Xai-Xai is located near the town center, with buses running to and from Maputo, Johannesburg, and other nearby destinations.

Other Options

Taxis are also available in Xai-Xai, but it is important to agree on a fare before getting in the car. Car rental is also an option for those who want more flexibility in getting around.

How to Get Around in Xai-Xai

Walking is a great way to get around Xai-Xai, especially if you want to explore the town center. Taxis are also available for hire, but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in. For those who want more flexibility in getting around, car rental is also available.

Where to Go Next from Xai-Xai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Vilanculos: A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
  • Zinave National Park: A protected area with diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and lions.
  • Kruger National Park: One of the largest game reserves in Africa, located across the border in South Africa.

Conclusion

Xai-Xai is a great destination for those looking for a relaxing beach vacation with the added bonus of cultural and natural attractions. With its clear waters, sandy beaches, and variety of activities and things to do, Xai-Xai is a must-visit destination in Southern Mozambique.