Maxixe

Maxixe Spotlight: Facts & Numbers

Location and Province

Maxixe is a coastal city in Inhambane Province, southern Mozambique, situated on the Indian Ocean in a bay opposite the historic city of Inhambane (the provincial capital). It lies just south of the Tropic of Capricorn at coordinates 23°52′S 35°21′E.

Key Facts and Numbers

• Population: As of the 2017 census, Maxixe had a population of 123,868, an increase from 105,895 in 2007 and 97,173 in 1997.
• Geography: The city is in a bay setting, with access to beaches and the Indian Ocean. It features a tropical climate suitable for coastal activities.
• Economy: Maxixe serves as the economic hub of Inhambane Province, with activities centered on trade, transportation, and local markets. It's a bustling stopover point for north-south travel.
• Administrative Role: It is the largest city in the province and acts as a gateway to nearby tourist areas.

Distances & Road Access

The road to Inhambane is circuitous due to the bay, but a short ferry connects the two directly.

Destination -  Driving Distance Notes
Inhambane (Provincial Capital) ~4 km (across bay) ~60 km Ferry ride is quick (about 20-30 minutes); road route loops around the bay.
Maputo (National Capital) ~410 km 460–466 km Via EN1 highway; driving time is approximately 7 hours, depending on conditions.

Maxixe is well-connected via Mozambique's main north-south highway, EN1, making it a key transit point for buses and vehicles traveling between Maputo and northern regions like Beira or Vilankulo. The EN1 is paved and in reasonable condition, though traffic and weather can affect travel. 

Public transport includes buses from Maputo (about 7-10 hours) and local chapas (minibuses). A ferry service across the bay to Inhambane provides an alternative to the 60 km road detour. The area has basic amenities like petrol stations.

Nearest Airport

The closest airport is Inhambane Airport (IATA: INH, ICAO: FQIN), located about 6.5 km from Maxixe (across the bay near Inhambane City). It handles domestic flights, primarily to Maputo (flight time ~1 hour), with limited international connections. Access from Maxixe is via ferry or road to the airport.

Nearby Attractions

Maxixe itself is more of a commercial hub than a tourist destination, but its location offers easy access to Inhambane Province's coastal highlights:

• Beaches and Bay Activities: Local beaches for relaxation, fishing, and dhow (traditional boat) rides across the bay to historic Inhambane City, known for colonial architecture and markets.
• Tofo and Barra Beaches: About 20-30 km east, famous for diving, snorkeling with whale sharks and manta rays, and vibrant marine life.
• Inhambane City: Just across the bay (ferry ride), featuring museums, old mosques, cathedrals, and a lively harbor.
• Other Provincial Spots: Further afield, places like Praia do Tofo for eco-tourism and water sports, or inland explorations in the province's rural areas. The region is ideal for beach holidays, with limited infrastructure but authentic local culture.