Planning & stay

Can I visit Santa Maria as a day trip from Maputo?

Q: Can I visit Santa Maria as a day trip from Maputo?

Yes. Private charter boat operators run day-trip excursions from Maputo Marina to Santa Maria and Portuguese Island. A typical itinerary includes an early morning 75-minute boat crossing, drift snorkeling at Hell's Gate, seafood lunch at a beach lodge, and an afternoon return before sea swells pick up.

2 min read · Updated 30 September 2026

Updated September 2026 · 3 minute read

Quick answer

Yes.

The practical answer

Private charter boat operators run day-trip excursions from Maputo Marina to Santa Maria and Portuguese Island. A typical itinerary includes an early morning 75-minute boat crossing, drift snorkeling at Hell's Gate, seafood lunch at a beach lodge, and an afternoon return before sea swells pick up.