Situated on the southeastern coast of the African continent, Mozambique is a country that often piques curiosity for its diverse culture, rich history, and strategic coastal location. Understanding where Mozambique is on a map provides valuable insight into its geography, neighboring countries, and its role within Southern Africa. Whether you’re interested in travel, geography, or regional dynamics, knowing Mozambique’s exact map position helps you better appreciate its significance within the African landscape.
Geographic Coordinates and Map Location of Mozambique
Latitude and Longitude
On a map, Mozambique is located between approximately 10° to 27° south latitude and 30° to 41° east longitude. These coordinates place the country firmly in the Southern Hemisphere, along the Indian Ocean, making it one of the prominent coastal nations in southeastern Africa.
Location Within the African Continent
Mozambique is positioned on the eastern side of the African continent. It is part of the region generally referred to as Southern Africa, and its vast coastline plays a crucial role in its economic and cultural identity. On a political map of Africa, Mozambique can be seen as a long, narrow country stretching vertically along the southeastern seaboard.
Bordering Countries and Neighboring Nations
Land Borders
Mozambique shares its borders with six countries
- Tanzaniato the north
- Malawito the northwest
- Zambiato the northwest
- Zimbabweto the west
- South Africato the southwest
- Eswatini (Swaziland)to the south
These neighboring countries help place Mozambique within a dynamic region of cross-border trade, shared rivers, and historical ties. It also makes Mozambique a gateway between inland Africa and the Indian Ocean.
Indian Ocean Coastline
Mozambique boasts a coastline that stretches for over 2,400 kilometers (about 1,500 miles) along the Indian Ocean. This long coastal border significantly influences its climate, ecosystems, economy, and historical development. On a map of Africa, the Indian Ocean lies directly to the east of Mozambique, providing access to major sea routes and trade with Asia and the Middle East.
Map Placement Within the Region of Southern Africa
Regional Context
Mozambique is a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), a regional organization of countries that includes South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Zimbabwe, and others. On regional political and economic maps, Mozambique is shown as a key player in regional development and cooperation.
Significance of Its Location
Its position gives Mozambique strategic importance. It serves as an outlet for landlocked countries like Malawi and Zimbabwe, providing access to international shipping via ports like Beira and Maputo. Rail and road infrastructure leading to and from these ports are often highlighted on transportation maps of the region.
Mozambique’s Provinces and Major Cities on the Map
Administrative Divisions
The country is divided into 11 provinces, each with its own administrative capital. Some of the most prominent provinces visible on administrative maps include
- Maputo ProvinceIncludes the national capital city, Maputo.
- Sofala ProvinceKnown for the port city of Beira.
- Nampula ProvinceHome to the city of Nampula, a key northern hub.
- Cabo Delgado ProvinceLocated in the far north, rich in natural gas reserves.
Major Cities and Urban Centers
When examining a detailed map of Mozambique, several major cities and towns stand out
- MaputoThe capital and largest city, located in the far south near the border with South Africa.
- BeiraA major port city in central Mozambique, facing the Mozambique Channel.
- NampulaA commercial center in the north-central region.
- PembaLocated in the north, Pemba is a gateway to the Quirimbas Islands.
Geographic Features Shown on Physical Maps
Rivers and Lakes
Physical maps of Mozambique highlight a number of important rivers and lakes. The most significant is the Zambezi River, which flows through central Mozambique and into the Indian Ocean. Lake Malawi, located in the northwest, forms part of the border between Mozambique and Malawi. These features are prominent on hydrographic maps and influence the agriculture and hydropower sectors of the country.
Mountain Ranges and Highlands
While Mozambique is generally low-lying along the coast, the western and northwestern regions are more mountainous. Notable highlands appear in areas near the border with Zimbabwe and Malawi. Mount Binga, the highest point in Mozambique, lies on the border with Zimbabwe and is marked on topographic maps.
Mozambique Channel
Between the eastern coastline of Mozambique and the island of Madagascar lies the Mozambique Channel. This stretch of the Indian Ocean is an important maritime corridor and is clearly labeled on marine navigation charts and regional ocean maps.
How to Find Mozambique on Different Types of Maps
Political Maps
On political maps of Africa, Mozambique is typically shaded to distinguish it from its neighbors, with capital cities and borders clearly marked. It appears as a tall, narrow country extending along the southeastern coastline of Africa.
Physical Maps
These maps highlight Mozambique’s geography, including mountain ranges, rivers, valleys, and coastal plains. The contrast between its low-lying eastern coast and elevated western interior is easy to identify on relief maps.
Satellite and Digital Maps
Satellite imagery and digital platforms like Google Maps provide a real-time, detailed view of Mozambique. Users can zoom in to see roads, terrain, towns, forests, and protected areas such as Gorongosa National Park or Niassa Reserve.
Importance of Mozambique’s Location
Trade and Transportation
Mozambique’s position along the Indian Ocean coast makes it a vital link in African trade routes. Ports such as Maputo, Beira, and Nacala serve not only Mozambique but also inland countries. Maps showing railway and highway networks often include trade corridors leading from these ports inland.
Tourism and Natural Attractions
Maps of tourist interest highlight Mozambique’s islands and marine parks. The Bazaruto Archipelago and Quirimbas Islands are popular destinations. Coastal maps show the pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine reserves that attract visitors from around the world.
Environmental and Ecological Significance
Mozambique’s diverse landscapes are reflected in conservation maps. Wetlands, mangrove forests, savannahs, and coastal ecosystems are all visible, making the country an important area for biodiversity and wildlife conservation.
On a map, Mozambique is located on the southeastern edge of the African continent, stretching along the coast of the Indian Ocean and sharing borders with six other African countries. From its bustling capital city of Maputo in the south to the resource-rich Cabo Delgado province in the north, Mozambique’s location gives it regional importance in trade, transportation, ecology, and culture. Whether viewed on a political, physical, or satellite map, the country’s geographic placement tells a story of connection between land and sea, and between Africa and the wider world.