In 1898, the administration centre of the country was moved from the Island of Mozambique and Lourenço Marques quickly became the hub for the commercial and industrial development of the country. Under Portuguese influence it soon became one of the most fascinating cities in Africa with its wide avenues, tall buildings and luxurious vegetation and began attracting a large number of visitors.

After the civil war that devastated the country between 1975 and 1992 Maputo is now recovering its previous charm, and has regained its rightful place among the great cities of the continent.

Today the city is the economic, cultural and tourism centre of the country and houses the majority of operators in these sectors, as well as the major universities, and the best preserved historical monuments.

Famous for its scenery, it also offers the visitor many options from seaside activities on the beaches of Inhaca and Portuguese islands and Santa Maria to the possibility of game viewing at the Maputo Special Reserve in a genuine African environment. For nature lovers the village of Namaacha in the Lebombo range offers beautiful scenery and its famous waterfalls. Across the bay at Catembe visitors can enjoy a relaxing drive along the coast which also offers a privileged view of the city from the other side.

The people of Mozambique express themselves culturally mainly through music, dance and its handicrafts. Maputo has produced internationally recognised artists such as painters like Malangatana and Chichorro, writers like Mia Couto and poet like José Craveirinha, and sculptors such as Alberto Chissano amongst many others.

In certain privileged areas of Maputo one can admire a wide range of works originating from all parts of the country: the ebony sculpture of the Makonde people of Cabo Delgado, the silver necklaces and bracelets from the island of Mozambique as well as the well-known batiks. These handicraft markets, with their tropical flavour, have become an inevitable tourist attraction for visitors from all over the world.