84 Basic Portuguese Phrases for Your Next Trip to Mozambique 🇲🇿

Olá! That means "hello" in Portuguese, the official language of Mozambique. 🙌 While Portuguese is also spoken in other countries like Brazil and Portugal, the Mozambican dialect has its own unique flavor. 🌶️ From the beaches of Maputo to the markets of Nampula, mastering some key phrases will help you navigate this vibrant African nation like a pro. 😎

Greetings and Pleasantries

1. Olá - Hello
2. Bom dia - Good morning
3. Boa tarde - Good afternoon
4. Boa noite - Good evening/Good night
5. Tchau - Goodbye
6. Até logo - See you later
7. Obrigado (masculine) / Obrigada (feminine) - Thank you
8. De nada - You're welcome
9. Por favor - Please
10. Com licença - Excuse me
11. Desculpe - Sorry
12. Como está? - How are you?
13. Estou bem, obrigado/a - I'm fine, thank you
14. Prazer em conhecê-lo/a - Nice to meet you

Greetings are essential in Mozambican culture. 🤝 Always start with a friendly "Olá" and end with a polite "Tchau" or "Até logo." Mozambicans appreciate good manners, so don't forget your "Obrigado/a" and "Por favor"!

Getting Around

15. Onde fica...? - Where is...?
16. A praia - The beach
17. O mercado - The market
18. O restaurante - The restaurant
19. O hotel - The hotel
20. O hospital - The hospital
21. A farmácia - The pharmacy
22. O banco - The bank
23. O táxi - The taxi
24. O autocarro - The bus
25. A estação de comboios - The train station
26. Quanto custa? - How much does it cost?
27. Pode me ajudar? - Can you help me?
28. Fala inglês? - Do you speak English?

Getting around Mozambique can be an adventure. 🚕 Knowing how to ask for directions and key locations will save you time and hassle. Don't be afraid to ask locals for help – most Mozambicans are friendly and eager to assist tourists. 😊

At the Restaurant

29. O menu, por favor - The menu, please
30. Eu gostaria... - I would like...
31. Frango - Chicken
32. Peixe - Fish
33. Carne de vaca - Beef
34. Vegetariano - Vegetarian
35. Arroz - Rice
36. Batata frita - French fries
37. Salada - Salad
38. Pão - Bread
39. Água - Water
40. Cerveja - Beer
41. Vinho - Wine
42. Sobremesa - Dessert
43. A conta, por favor - The bill, please

Mozambican cuisine is a delicious blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences. 🍛 Must-try dishes include piri-piri chicken 🍗, prawns 🦐, and the national dish, matapa (a stew made with cassava leaves, coconut milk, and peanuts). Don't forget to say "Obrigado/a" to your server!

Shopping and Bargaining

44. Quanto custa isto? - How much is this?
45. É muito caro - That's very expensive
46. Pode fazer um desconto? - Can you give me a discount?
47. Vou levar - I'll take it
48. Não, obrigado/a - No, thank you
49. Onde posso encontrar...? - Where can I find...?
50. Artesanato - Handicrafts
51. Roupa - Clothing
52. Especiarias - Spices
53. Frutas - Fruits
54. Legumes - Vegetables

Bargaining is a way of life in Mozambican markets. 💰 Don't be shy to haggle – it's expected! Start by offering half the asking price and work your way up. Remember, a friendly smile and a bit of humor can go a long way in getting a good deal. 😉

Emergencies and Health

55. Socorro! - Help!
56. Chame a polícia - Call the police
57. Chame uma ambulância - Call an ambulance
58. Estou perdido/a - I'm lost
59. Fui roubado/a - I've been robbed
60. Estou doente - I'm sick
61. Dói-me... - My ... hurts
62. a cabeça - head
63. o estômago - stomach
64. as costas - back
65. Preciso de um médico - I need a doctor
66. Onde fica o hospital mais próximo? - Where is the nearest hospital?

While Mozambique is generally safe, it's always good to be prepared for emergencies. 🚨 Keep important numbers handy and know how to ask for help in Portuguese. If you have any health concerns, don't hesitate to visit a local clinic or hospital.

Flirting and Relationships

67. Olá, gata/gato - Hey there, beautiful 😘
68. Posso pagar-lhe uma bebida? - Can I buy you a drink? 🍹
69. Quer dançar comigo? - Want to dance with me? 💃🕺
70. Você tem namorado/a? - Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?
71. Qual é o seu número? - What's your number? 📞
72. Vamos sair qualquer dia - Let's hang out sometime
73. Acho que estou apaixonado/a por você - I think I'm falling for you 😍
74. Você é linda/lindo - You're beautiful/handsome
75. Gosto de você - I like you
76. Amo-te - I love you ❤️

Mozambicans are known for their warm, friendly nature, and flirting is no exception. 💕 However, it's important to be respectful and mindful of cultural norms. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, so keep things subtle. And remember, no means no in any language!

Slang and Local Expressions

77. Mano/a - Bro/Sis (used among friends)
78. Baza - Go away/Get out
79. Txinado - Awesome/Cool
80. Kanimambo - Thank you very much (borrowed from Shangaan)
81. Xilunguíne - Maputo city
82. Mahala - For free
83. Sura - Problem/Trouble
84. Bula! - Cheers! (used when toasting drinks)

To really impress the locals, throw in some Mozambican slang! 🗣️ These expressions will make you sound like a true "mano/a." Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up causing "sura"! 😅

FAQ

Is it safe to travel to Mozambique?

Yes, Mozambique is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel, it's important to take basic precautions like being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Do I need a visa to visit Mozambique?

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Mozambique. You can obtain a visa upon arrival at major entry points, but it's recommended to check with your nearest Mozambican embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements.

What is the best time to visit Mozambique?

The best time to visit Mozambique is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. This period offers sunny skies, comfortable temperatures, and excellent conditions for beach activities and wildlife viewing.

What currency is used in Mozambique?

The official currency of Mozambique is the Mozambican metical (MZN). While some upscale establishments may accept US dollars or South African rand, it's best to carry local currency for everyday transactions.

What should I pack for a trip to Mozambique?

Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. If you plan on visiting beaches or going on safari, be sure to pack appropriate gear like swimwear, snorkeling equipment, and sturdy walking shoes.

Now you're ready to embark on your Mozambican adventure! 🌴 With these 84 essential phrases and insider tips, you'll be navigating the country like a seasoned pro in no time. So what are you waiting for? Bom dia and boa viagem! 🌍✈️