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The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Mozambique on August 21, cautioning Americans about elevated terrorism risks in the southeastern African nation. Multiple provinces have been designated as “Level 4: Do Not Travel” zones, while the country overall carries a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” designation due to security concerns in regions frequented by international visitors.
Cabo Delgado Province, home to popular safari destinations including Quirimbas National Park, remains a primary concern for U.S. officials. Terrorist groups operating in northern Mozambique pose an active threat to public areas and tourist locations, with the potential for violence and hostage-taking incidents that may occur with minimal warning, according to the advisory.
Mozambique, bordered by Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Eswatini, attracts visitors to its Indian Ocean coastline and wildlife reserves despite not being a major tourist hub. The country received more than 757,400 international visitors in 2024, with many traveling for exclusive hunting safaris that command premium prices in smaller numbers compared to mass-market safari destinations elsewhere in Africa.
Alex Perry, a London-based author and former TIME correspondent who wrote “Blood Will Flow” about the Mozambique insurgency, characterized the terrorist presence as relatively small but exceptionally violent. He estimated the ISIS-affiliated group in the region comprises approximately 500 members and has perpetrated mass beheadings that have severely impacted the local tourism industry.
The State Department recommends that Americans traveling to Mozambique enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and consider hiring private security services. Travelers are advised to avoid movement between sunset and sunrise, maintain a low profile, and develop evacuation plans independent of U.S. government support.
Perry noted that while northern Mozambique presents serious security challenges, the majority of the country remains an attractive and safe destination for visitors, with the far north representing a dramatic exception to the generally secure environment.
The advisory represents one of several travel warnings issued by the State Department recently, as officials continue monitoring international security threats affecting American travelers. Earlier warnings have targeted Ecuador due to violent crime and kidnapping concerns, and the Bahamas for similar caution recommendations.
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