Beira © Atamari

Beira is the second largest city in Mozambique. It is situated in the central region of the country, in Sofala Province, where the Pungue River and the Indian Ocean meet. It is home to the Port of Beira, which acts as a gateway for the central interior portion of the country and the land-locked nations of Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi. The Portuguese Mozambique Company originally developed Beira in the 19th century. It was developed further by the Portuguese colonial government from 1947 until 1975, at which point Mozambique became independent from Portugal. Beira still has aspects of colonial charm but has deteriorated in some areas.

Beira has a few interesting sights, including the Cathedral of Beira and the Fort of San Gaetano. Many of the shops, restaurants, and facilities in Beira are clustered around the Praça do Município and Praça do Metical squares in the centre of town. There are some charming houses along the Ponta Gêa and the port, including the Casa Infante de Sagres.

Macuti Beach, with its iconic lighthouse, is easily the most fashionable part of town, though many parts are in need of repair. Savanna Beach is 16 miles (25km) out of town and you have to take a little boat across to the beach. The water is cleaner than in Beira and it's a great spot for fishing. It has a simple restaurant with a pleasant atmosphere. About 8 miles (12km) out of Beira, between Macuti and the airport, Rio Maria is set between the sea and a lovely river. There are no facilities there but it is a very relaxing spot.