Dondo 

Dondo  Spotlight: Facts & Numbers

Location and Province

Dondo is a city and the administrative seat of Dondo District in Sofala Province, central Mozambique. It is situated near the Pungwe River, approximately 30 km northwest of the port city of Beira.

Key Facts and Numbers

• Population: 70,817 as of the 2007 census, up from 63,757 in 1997; a 2008 estimate placed it at 77,532.
• Geography: Located in a riverine area with access to the Pungwe River; the district features tropical climate influences suitable for agriculture and industry.
• Economy: Known for its cement factory using local limestone from Muanza and one of Mozambique's two concrete sleeper plants (the other in Vila de Sena). It serves as a key rail junction connecting to Malawi, Moatize (coal mining area), and Zimbabwe, supporting trade and transport.
• Administrative Role: The district is part of Sofala Province, with Dondo as its main urban center.

Road Access

Beira (Provincial Capital) 28 km 33–40 km Quick drive (~30–45 minutes) via paved roads; frequent public transport like chapas (minibuses) available.
Maputo (National Capital) 738–741 km 1,179–1,183 km Long journey (~14–16 hours) via EN1; involves tolls and potential stops in cities like Xai-Xai. 

Dondo is well-connected by road due to its proximity to Beira, Mozambique's second-largest city and a major port. The main access is via the EN6 highway, which links directly to Beira (paved and in good condition) and extends westward. For longer trips, it connects to the EN1 north-south corridor for travel to Maputo or northern regions. Public transport includes frequent buses and chapas from Beira (~30 minutes to Dondo), with trains also available via the rail network for regional connections (e.g., to Zimbabwe or Malawi borders). Roads can be affected by seasonal flooding in the Pungwe River area, but infrastructure has improved post-cyclone recoveries.

Nearest Airport

The closest airport is Beira Airport (IATA: BEW, ICAO: FQBR), located about 27–35 km southeast (straight-line 27 km, driving ~30–45 minutes via EN6). It serves domestic flights to Maputo (daily, ~1.5 hours) and limited international connections, primarily to Johannesburg or other regional hubs. The airport handles both passenger and cargo traffic, supporting Beira's port activities.

Nearby Attractions

Dondo itself is more industrial and residential than tourist-oriented, but its location near Beira and in Sofala Province provides access to natural and cultural sites:

• Gorongosa National Park: About 150–200 km northwest (a few hours' drive), renowned for wildlife safaris featuring elephants, lions, hippos, and over 400 bird species; offers game drives, walking tours, and eco-lodges.
• Beira Highlights: Just 30 km away, including Macuti Lighthouse and Shipwreck (historic 1904 lighthouse with beach views), Beira Cathedral (colonial architecture), and the bustling port area for markets and seafood.
• Marromeu National Park: Further afield (~150 km east near the Zambezi Delta), focused on buffalo herds, birdwatching, and river safaris in a less-visited wetland reserve.
• Local and Riverine Activities: Explore the Pungwe River for fishing or boat trips; nearby Savane Beach (rustic coastal spot with coconut groves) offers relaxation and birdwatching, about 40–50 km from Dondo via Beira. The region suits nature lovers and those interested in Mozambique's central wildlife and colonial history, though infrastructure is basic.