MAPUTO – Mozambique has been catapulted onto the global ecotourism stage following the designation of Maputo National Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, according to leading tour operator Dana Tours, which says the recognition solidifies the country’s position as southern Africa’s premier bush-beach-culture destination.
“This UNESCO recognition is a complete game-changer for Mozambique tourism and elevates the country from a regional beach destination to a world-class ecotourism hub capable of competing with established conservation leaders like Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana,” said Natalie Tenzer-Silva, Director at Dana Tours.
“We now have two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Maputo National Park for incredible wildlife experiences, and Ilha de Moçambique for rich cultural heritage. Combined with some of Africa’s most pristine coastlines and uniquely intimate safari settings where elephants roam on beaches and marine life thrives offshore, Mozambique offers an authentic bush-beach-culture experience that few destinations can match; all backed by UNESCO credibility,” she added.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) finalised the inscription of the 1,794 km² park this week during its 47th meeting in Paris, France. The recognition acknowledges one of Africa’s most successful ecosystem restoration projects, where over 5,000 animals have been reintroduced since 2021.
“Mozambique is no longer just a beach add-on to South African itineraries. This UNESCO status puts us on equal footing with established conservation destinations and gives travel professionals a compelling new story to sell,” added Tenzer-Silva. “What’s particularly exciting is that local communities receive 20% of tourism revenue, and visitors can participate in active conservation work like mangrove rehabilitation. This is meaningful travel that creates real impact.”
“The designation is a historic and proud moment for Mozambique,” said Gustavo Dgedge, Secretary of State for Land and Environment. “Being recognised by UNESCO is a powerful endorsement of the work being done here. It honours the dedication of our government, communities and partners in restoring this unique landscape.”
Maputo National Park features an extraordinary variety of natural environments, from coral reefs and seagrass beds to wetlands, freshwater lakes, coastal dunes, savannas, swamps and mangroves. Its beaches are home to the southernmost nesting sites of leatherback and green turtles while hosting the world’s largest concentration of giant kingfishers and serving as a key stopover for migratory birds on the East African flyway.
“The timing couldn’t be more perfect,” continued Tenzer-Silva. “International travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful conservation experiences rather than just wildlife viewing. They want to see their tourism dollars making a real difference, which is exactly what Mozambique now offers.”
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About Dana Tours
Founded over 20 years ago and based in Maputo, Dana Tours is a leading travel company renowned for its unparalleled local expertise in Mozambique. Specialising in tailor-made holidays and business travel solutions, the company offers a comprehensive range of services – from day tours and airport transfers to wedding transport and bespoke group travel arrangements. Dana Tours is committed to exceptional service and client satisfaction, providing 24/7 support and drawing on strong relationships with suppliers across even the most remote parts of Mozambique. An active member of both AVITUM and SATSA, Dana Tours is the trusted partner for reliable, comfortable, and memorable travel experiences throughout Mozambique.
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