Sentiment about holidaying in Mozambique seems to be evenly split between cancelling, postponing and proceeding according to a recent Travel News poll.
Some areas of the country have been in turmoil following its election results and protests have affected travel to and from the country, particularly at the Lebombo Border Post.
The poll results showed that 35% of clients have cancelled, 35% have postponed and 31% are going ahead with their trips to Mozambique.
An insider at the Mozambique Tourism Authority told Travel News he was optimistic regarding the poll results, because they showed that 66% of clients were still keen to enjoy a holiday in Mozambique, although possibly at a later time.
“Regarding the 35% of cancelled trips…We hope they will soon reconsider Mozambique as their next trip,” he added.
However, the unrest is sure to affect this year’s high tourist season. According to daily online news publication Club of Mozambique, 8 121 bookings have been cancelled in two Mozambican provinces and these cancellations mean that around MZN200 million (R56,8m) has been lost due to the post-election demonstrations.
Meanwhile opposition party leader Venâncio Mondlane denies the victory of Daniel Chapo, and has said that the protests would continue “until the electoral truth was restored”, Club of Mozambique said.
Natalie Tenzer-Silva, Director of Mozambique tour operator Dana Tours, told Travel News that tourism sector stakeholders have been collaborating to respond proactively and ensure minimal disruption.
“Many of Mozambique's popular tourist areas are located far from the affected regions and continue to operate smoothly, particularly in fly-in destinations such as Vilanculos,” she said.
Tenzer-Silva said Dana Tours had been providing clear, timely updates on the ground situation so that travellers could make the best decisions and stay informed for their upcoming trips.
“For those planning to visit in December, we are monitoring the situation closely and will continue to provide any necessary guidance to ensure safe and enjoyable travel."
Tenzer-Silva said that Dana Tours had received a few cancellations, primarily in Maputo, and a few clients were considering rescheduling their travel to Mozambique.
“We are encouraging clients who wish to cancel to opt for postponements instead, offering credits in place of refunds. However, refunds have been issued in certain cases when necessary.”
Inbound tourism association SATSA has also called on travellers to postpone, not cancel, their trips to Mozambique, as reported here by Travel News.
