Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Inhaca. Inhaca Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at IHC:
First, verify that you can enter Mozambique — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Inhaca, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Inhaca
From IHC, the local transport gets you to Inhaca in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Inhaca Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Inhaca, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Inhaca, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Inhaca, we’d suggest Inhaca Marine Biology Station and Inhaca Island Lighthouse. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside IHC — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Inhaca Airfield Observation
- Inhaca Airport Coastal Breeze
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Inhaca: Restaurant Marisol and Inhaca Lodge Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Inhaca Airfield Refreshment Stand or Terminal Outdoor Snack Zone. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Bag Storage Near IHC
Specific locker facilities at IHC aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Inhaca itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at IHC should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Mozambique and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at IHC include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Mozambique also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Inhaca doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from IHC, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.