Our last destination in Mozambique was Ponta do Ouro, a vibrant coastal beach town in the extreme south of Mozambique, just 10 km from the South African border and around 120 km south of Maputo. Ponta do Ouro is surrounded by a spectacular mix of beaches, dunes and rich marine life, famous for its world-class scuba diving, dolphin encounters and laid-back village atmosphere.
The name translates as “Point of Gold.” Early Portuguese explorers were apparently led to believe that gold could be found here, although the dunes are actually rich in black titanium rather than precious metal. For decades after Mozambique gained independence in 1975, and through the subsequent civil war, Ponta do Ouro remained an isolated and rustic frontier destination, accessible only by rugged 4×4 vehicles navigating deep sandy tracks. The completion of the Maputo–Katembe Bridge, followed by the construction of the paved road from Maputo, transformed the once-isolated outpost into an easily accessible weekend and holiday escape.
Today, Ponta do Ouro offers everything needed for a relaxed beach getaway: bustling open-air markets, local restaurants — we particularly loved the food at Ponta Beach Bar — and lively beach bars such as the famous Fernando’s. There is also a Petromoc fuel station, grocery shops, and a wide range of accommodation, from rustic campsites to modern beachfront resorts.
Parking location – Ponta do Ouro: 26.8440768S 32.8890941E (🚻,🚿,🏊,💦,🅿️500 MZN/pax)