A long layover in Nampula is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Nampula Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at APL:
First, verify that you can enter Mozambique — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 60 minutes into Nampula, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — MZN is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Spend Your Time in Nampula
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Nampula, two standouts are:
- Nampula Cathedral (Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Fátima) — The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
- Nampula Central Market (Mercado Central) — Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at APL, check out Main Terminal Waiting Area or Airport Souvenir & Essentials Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
The Best Way Into Nampula from APL
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Nampula: Restaurante O Forno and Restaurante Milenio. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Terminal Cafe or Snack & Refreshment Stand. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Nampula might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$12 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$28 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
WiFi at APL 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.
Luggage Storage at APL
Luggage storage options at APL can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Nampula for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Sleep & Lounge Options at APL
Long overnight layover? Your options at APL 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Nampula count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave APL. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.