Maputo National Park saw a record number of visitors in 2023, receiving more than 20,000 tourists. This increase contributed significantly to the growth and recovery of investments in the area.
According to Miguel Gonçalves, the park’s administrator, the number of tourists has increased by between 10% and 15% every year, with last year being the best on record. “We’re reaching the levels we were at before covid-19. In terms of marine activities, we’re still recovering – 2023 was the best year in terms of the number of divers,” he explained.
Major investment is currently underway in the park, with improvements in communication, signage and accommodation services, aimed at protecting the animals and improving the tourist experience. “Inside the park there are already campsites with good conditions, including hot water, running water and electricity, as well as three lodges for tourist accommodation, two of which are five-star,” said Gonçalves.
Maputo National Park is a protected area that joins the Maputo Special Reserve and the Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve. With an area of 1718 square kilometers, the park has diverse landscapes and ecosystems, including forests, dunes, grasslands, mangroves, coral reefs, beaches, rivers and lagoons.
The park currently employs 121 people full-time, with the number of employees expected to exceed 200. The improvements and investments made aim not only to attract more tourists, but also to guarantee the conservation and preservation of this important natural heritage of Mozambique.
