Beira is a port city located in central Mozambique, on the edge of the Indian Ocean. It is the second largest city in the country, with a metropolitan population of over 1.5 million inhabitants. Beira's history as a site of trade dates back centuries, as it served as a major trading hub along the east African Swahili coast. Beira is known today as a vibrant city filled with culture and warm hospitality. In this article, we'll look at the city's rich history, modern attractions, and its importance to the future of Mozambique.
Getting to Know Beira
Beira is the second largest city in Mozambique, located in the Sofala province. The population of the city is estimated to be around 500,000, making it one of the most heavily populated cities in the country. The official time zone in Beira is Central Africa Time (CAT), which is two hours ahead of UTC. The official language and the most commonly spoken language in Beira is Emakhuwa, with Portuguese and other African languages also spoken commonly. The primary currency used in Mozambique is the Metical, which has the code MZM.
Climate and Weather
Beira, Mozambique is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean and has a warm, humid subtropical climate. The city has two distinct seasons - the dry season, which occurs from May to October and the rainy season which occurs from November to April.
The dry season is characterized by colder temperatures and dry weather, while the rainy season is characterized by hot and humid temperatures with rainfalls almost daily. The average temperature is around 27°C (80°F) with temperatures ranging from 22°C (71°F) to 31°C (88°F). The average rainfall during the year is around 800mm with the wettest months being January and February.
Beira experiences strong winds during the summer, often resulting in thunderstorms and heavy rains, which can be dangerous and disruptive at times. Overall, the climate of Beira is warm and humid throughout the year and offers visitors plenty of sunshine and beach activities.
Touring Beira: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Beira: Beira International Airport and Beira Port/Cahora Bassa Airport. The main airport is Beira International Airport, with the official name of Amesa International Airport.
The most affordable way to get from the airport to downtown Beira is by taxi. The approximate cost is 1000 Meticais (the local currency), the equivalent of 18 US Dollars. There may be additional fees if you take a taxi from a different company.
At Beira International Airport there are exchange offices which offer regular currency exchange services.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Beira