Maputo Airport Guide: Complete Guide to Maputo International Airport (MPM) (2026)
Maputo International Airport (MPM) is the main gateway to Mozambique. Whether you are arriving for a beach holiday in Tofo, a business trip in the capital, or connecting to a domestic destination, this guide covers everything you need to know about navigating Maputo Airport — from terminals and airlines to visa processing, ground transport, and practical tips for first-time visitors.
Quick Facts About Maputo International Airport
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Maputo International Airport (also called Mavalane International Airport) |
| IATA Code | MPM |
| ICAO Code | FQMA |
| Location | 3 km (1.9 miles) northwest of Maputo city center |
| Coordinates | 25°55′15″S 32°34′21″E |
| Elevation | 44 metres (145 ft) above sea level |
| Time Zone | Africa/Maputo (UTC+2) |
| Operator | Aeroportos de Moçambique (ADM) |
| Annual Capacity | 900,000+ passengers |
| Phone | +258 21 466 846 |
Maputo Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Mozambique. In 2023, it handled over 1 million passengers. It serves as the primary hub for LAM Mozambique Airlines, the national carrier, and connects the country to major cities across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
Terminals at Maputo Airport
Maputo International Airport has two terminals within short walking distance of each other.
Terminal A — International Terminal
Terminal A is the newer, modern building that handles all international flights. It features:
- 14 check-in counters
- Electronic flight information displays
- A presidential VIP lounge
- Escalators and air conditioning
- Capacity for 400 arriving and departing passengers per hour
- Duty-free shopping area
- Immigration and customs processing halls
Terminal B — Domestic Terminal
Terminal B handles all domestic flights within Mozambique, operated primarily by LAM Mozambique Airlines and Moçambique Expresso. Domestic routes connect Maputo to Beira, Nampula, Tete, Vilankulo, Inhambane, Lichinga, Pemba, and Quelimane.
A new domestic terminal has been under construction as part of the airport expansion project, which aims to double the airport’s overall capacity.
Airlines Operating at Maputo Airport
Maputo International Airport is served by a mix of African, Middle Eastern, and European carriers:
| Airline | Destinations |
|---|---|
| LAM Mozambique Airlines | Beira, Nampula, Tete, Vilankulo, Inhambane, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, Lisbon |
| Ethiopian Airlines | Addis Ababa |
| Kenya Airways | Nairobi–Jomo Kenyatta |
| Qatar Airways | Doha |
| TAP Air Portugal | Lisbon |
| Turkish Airlines | Istanbul |
| TAAG Angola Airlines | Luanda |
| Airlink | Johannesburg–O.R. Tambo, Cape Town |
| FlySafair | Johannesburg–O.R. Tambo |
| Fastjet Mozambique | Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam |
| CemAir | Johannesburg–O.R. Tambo |
Tip: LAM Mozambique Airlines offers the widest domestic network. Book domestic flights early during peak season (December–February) as they fill up quickly.
Arriving at Maputo Airport: Step-by-Step
If you are flying into Mozambique for the first time, here is what to expect upon arrival at Maputo Airport.
Step 1: Disembark and Proceed to Immigration
After landing, follow the signs to the immigration hall. All international passengers must pass through immigration before collecting baggage.
Step 2: Visa on Arrival or eVisa Verification
At the immigration counter, you will need to present:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
- Your eVisa approval letter (if you applied online), OR
- Documents for a Visa on Arrival (if eligible)
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available at Maputo Airport for most nationalities. The fee is approximately 50 USD (cash only, USD preferred). Processing can take 30–60 minutes depending on queue length.
eVisa: If you applied for a Mozambique eVisa online through the official portal (evisa.gov.mz), present your printed approval letter at the eVisa counter. Processing is typically faster than VOA.
For full details on visa types, fees, and the application process, see our Mozambique eVisa Application Guide and Mozambique Visa on Arrival pages.
Step 3: Baggage Claim
After immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area. Baggage carts are available free of charge. If your luggage is lost or damaged, report it to your airline’s desk before leaving the hall.
Step 4: Customs
After collecting your bags, pass through customs. Mozambique has standard customs regulations:
- Duty-free allowance: 200 cigarettes, 1 litre of alcohol, gifts up to USD 500 value
- Prohibited: Narcotics, firearms without permit, counterfeit goods
- Declare: Large amounts of currency (over USD 5,000 equivalent), electronics for resale
Step 5: Exit to Arrivals Hall
Once through customs, you will enter the arrivals hall where you can find:
- Currency exchange booths
- ATMs
- SIM card vendors
- Taxi desks
- Hotel representatives
Departing from Maputo Airport: What to Know
Check-In
Arrive at least 2.5 hours before international flights and 1.5 hours before domestic flights. Check-in counters typically open 3 hours before departure.
Security and Departure Lounge
After check-in and security screening, you enter the departure lounge. The airside area has:
- Duty-free shops
- A café and snack bar
- The Executivo 2000 Lounge (for eligible passengers)
- Basic seating areas
Luggage Wrapping
Luggage wrapping services are available in the check-in area for approximately 200 MZN per bag (roughly USD 3). This is recommended if you want extra protection for your checked bags.
Facilities and Services at Maputo Airport
Lounge Access
The Executivo 2000 Lounge is located in the International Terminal, airside, opposite Gate 1. It is open from 05:00 to 22:00.
Access is available through:
- Priority Pass membership
- LoungeKey or DragonPass
- Business/First class ticket on eligible airlines
- Paid single-visit pass
The lounge offers comfortable seating, complimentary drinks and snacks, WiFi, and a quiet environment away from the main terminal.
WiFi
Free WiFi is available in the terminal, though travellers report the connection can be slow or unreliable. The Executivo 2000 Lounge has a more stable connection. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for reliable internet access during your stay in Mozambique.
ATMs and Currency Exchange
- ATMs: 4–5 ATMs are available in the arrivals and departures areas
- Currency Exchange: Two currency exchange booths operate in the terminal
Tip: The local currency is the Mozambican Metical (MZN). While USD is widely accepted for visa fees and at some hotels, you will need MZN for taxis, local shops, and restaurants. ATMs typically dispense MZN. Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs, then use ATMs in the city for better rates.
SIM Cards
Local SIM cards from Vodacom Mozambique and Movitel are available from vendors in the arrivals hall. A prepaid SIM with data costs approximately 200–500 MZN (USD 3–8). You will need your passport to register the SIM.
Tip: Having a local SIM card with data is extremely useful for ride-hailing apps, maps, and staying connected during your trip.
Medical Services
A medical service desk is available in the terminal for health emergencies. The airport has defibrillators and trained medical personnel on-site.
Postal Services
A post office operates inside the terminal for sending letters, postcards, and parcels.
Shopping and Dining
- Duty-free shops sell alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, and souvenirs
- Cafés and restaurants offer local and international food options
- Note: Many shops and restaurants close between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM, and some may be closed on weekends
Passengers with Reduced Mobility
Wheelchairs and support staff are provided free of charge. It is recommended to inform your airline of any mobility assistance needs at least 48 hours before your flight.
Getting from Maputo Airport to the City Centre
The airport is conveniently located just 3 km from Maputo’s city centre. Here are your transport options:
Taxi
Taxis are the most common way to get from the airport to the city. They are available in the ground transportation area outside the arrivals hall.
- Journey time: 15–20 minutes to the city centre
- Cost: Negotiate before boarding. Expect to pay 300–500 MZN (USD 5–8) to central Maputo
- Tip: Some taxis are metered, but many are not. Agree on the fare before getting in. USD may be accepted but MZN is preferred.
Hotel Shuttle
Several hotels in Maputo offer airport shuttle services. Check with your hotel in advance to arrange pickup. Some charge a fee while others include it complimentary for guests.
Car Rental
International car rental companies have desks at the airport:
- Avis — on-site counter in arrivals
- Hertz — on-site counter in arrivals
Important: You will need an international driving permit (IDP) along with your home country licence. Driving is on the left side of the road in Mozambique. Roads in Maputo vary in condition, and traffic can be heavy during rush hours.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Ride-hailing services operate in Maputo and can be a convenient option if you have a local SIM card with data. Download the app before your trip and set up payment.
Nearby Hotels
There are no hotels on the airport grounds. The closest hotels are in central Maputo, approximately a 10–15 minute drive:
| Hotel | Distance | Shuttle Available |
|---|---|---|
| Polana Serena Hotel | ~4 km | Yes (paid) |
| Radisson Blu Hotel, Maputo | ~5 km | Yes (paid) |
| Southern Sun Maputo | ~4 km | Yes (paid) |
| Hotel Avenida | ~3.5 km | Contact hotel |
| Montebelo Girassol Maputo | ~4 km | Contact hotel |
Tip: If you have a late-night arrival, consider booking a hotel near the airport for the first night. The airport reportedly closes overnight, so sleeping inside the terminal may not be an option.
Practical Tips for Maputo Airport
Currency and Payments
- The airport accepts MZN (Mozambican Metical)
- USD is accepted for visa fees
- Credit cards are accepted at some airport shops but not universally
- Carry small denominations of USD for visa on arrival and tips
Language
- Portuguese is the official language
- English is spoken by some airport staff but not widely
- Having key phrases in Portuguese is helpful
Weather and What to Wear
Maputo has a tropical savanna climate. If arriving from a cold climate, be prepared for warm, humid weather:
- Summer (Oct–Mar): 25–35°C, humid, rainy season
- Winter (Apr–Sep): 15–25°C, dry, pleasant
Safety
- Keep valuables in your carry-on luggage
- Do not leave bags unattended
- Use official taxis or pre-arranged hotel transfers
- Keep copies of your passport and visa documents separate from originals
Connecting Flights
If connecting to a domestic flight at Maputo Airport:
- Clear immigration and collect your checked luggage
- Proceed to the domestic terminal (Terminal B) — a short walk from Terminal A
- Check in for your domestic flight
- Go through domestic security
Allow at least 2–3 hours between international arrival and domestic departure to account for immigration queues and potential delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the airport code for Maputo?
The IATA code is MPM and the ICAO code is FQMA.
How far is Maputo Airport from the city centre?
Maputo International Airport is approximately 3 kilometres (1.9 miles) northwest of the city centre. The drive takes 15–20 minutes depending on traffic.
Can I get a visa on arrival at Maputo Airport?
Yes. Visa on Arrival is available at Maputo Airport for most nationalities. The fee is approximately 50 USD in cash. You will need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages. For faster processing, consider applying for an eVisa online before your trip.
Is there WiFi at Maputo Airport?
Free WiFi is available but can be unreliable. The Executivo 2000 Lounge has a more stable connection. Purchasing a local SIM card is recommended for reliable internet access.
What airlines fly to Maputo?
Major airlines serving Maputo include LAM Mozambique Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines, TAAG Angola Airlines, Airlink, FlySafair, Fastjet, and CemAir.
Are there lounges at Maputo Airport?
Yes. The Executivo 2000 Lounge is located in the International Terminal (airside, opposite Gate 1). Access is available through Priority Pass, LoungeKey, business/first class tickets, or paid single-visit passes.
What are the airport’s operating hours?
The airport reportedly closes overnight. If you have a very early or very late flight, plan accordingly and consider staying at a nearby hotel.
Can I exchange money at the airport?
Yes. There are currency exchange booths and ATMs in both the arrivals and departures areas. The local currency is the Mozambican Metical (MZN).
Is there parking at Maputo Airport?
Yes, parking facilities are available at the airport for both short-term and long-term stays.
How do I get from Maputo Airport to Vilankulo or Tofo?
For beach destinations like Vilankulo or Tofo, you can:
- Take a domestic flight from Maputo’s Terminal B (LAM or Moçambique Expresso)
- Arrange a private transfer or shuttle bus
- Rent a car and drive (Vilankulo is ~700 km, Tofo is ~470 km from Maputo)
See our Mozambique Visa Requirements page for complete entry documentation details.
Planning Your Trip to Mozambique
Before flying into Maputo Airport, make sure you have the correct visa. Most visitors need either an eVisa, a Visa on Arrival, or an eTA depending on their nationality.
- Apply for an eVisa online — Mozambique eVisa Application
- Check visa fees — Mozambique Visa Fees
- See visa requirements — Mozambique Visa Requirements
- Check visa-free countries — Mozambique Visa Free Countries
Safe travels and enjoy your visit to Mozambique!
