Nampula Airport

Nampula Airport (APL) is not merely a runway, but the main aerial gateway to the culturally rich and historic northern region of Mozambique. Located in the province of the same name, it serves as a starting point for travellers eager to explore colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and the natural beauty of this part of Africa. The airport connects Nampula with both domestic destinations and other countries, playing a key role in the development of tourism and the region's economy. Despite its modest size, it offers passengers basic amenities for a comfortable start or end to their journey.

Features and Infrastructure

As an important transport hub in northern Mozambique, Nampula Airport is focused on meeting the key needs of passengers. It operates a single terminal serving both domestic and international flights. For the convenience of travellers, cafés, ATMs, and currency exchange points are available within the airport grounds. Due to its status, the airport serves as a base for several airlines, including the national carrier LAM Mozambique Airlines, ensuring regular connections to major cities. Its proximity to the city, just a few kilometres from the centre, makes it easily accessible for tourists arriving in the province.

Below is the essential contact information for Nampula Airport (APL). Please note that the airport is regional, and some contact details may be shared across all airports in Mozambique managed by ADM (Aeroportos de Moçambique).

• Official Website: The airport does not have a separate website. Information should be sought on the portal of the management company, Aeroportos de Moçambique (ADM): www.adm.co.mz.
• Information Desk Phone: +258 26 213 632. It is recommended to verify the number before calling, as contact details may change.
• Airport Address: Aeroporto de Nampula, Nampula, Mozambique.
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the email of the management company ADM: geral@adm.co.mz.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For information regarding flights, check-in, and carriage regulations, please contact your airline's support service.

Getting to Nampula Airport (APL) from the city centre of Nampula is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. Travellers can choose from several convenient methods depending on their budget and preferences.

Taxis and Tuk-tuks. The fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport is by taxi or a local three-wheeled motorcycle known as a "txopela". The journey from the city centre usually takes 10-15 minutes. Taximeters are rarely used, so it is critically important to agree on the fare with the driver in advance. Tuk-tuks are generally slightly cheaper than regular taxis.

Public Transport. For the most budget-conscious travellers, there are "chapas" — local minibuses. This is the cheapest way to travel and allows you to immerse yourself in local life. However, keep in mind that chapas can be overcrowded, do not have a strict schedule, and the route may not pass directly by the terminal, requiring a short walk. This option is not very convenient if you have a lot of luggage.

Car Rental. If you plan to travel actively around the region, renting a car can be an excellent solution. There are several rental agencies in Nampula, including at the airport itself. This gives you complete freedom of movement. Parking is available for those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicles. It is best to check conditions and costs on-site.

Hotel Transfer. Many hotels in the city offer guests a transfer service to/from the airport. This is a comfortable and reliable option that can be booked in advance when reserving your room. We recommend checking the availability and cost of this service with your hotel.

Nampula Airport (APL) is a compact regional airport serving the city of the same name and the northern part of Mozambique. Its structure is simple and functional, making navigation easy even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one small terminal that handles both domestic and a limited number of international flights. Thanks to this, travellers do not need to worry about transferring between buildings — everything is in one place. The terminal layout is intuitive: all key zones are located within walking distance of each other.

The departure zone includes several check-in counters and a pre-flight security checkpoint. The waiting hall is small but sufficient for the current passenger flow. The arrival zone is located in the adjacent part of the building and is equipped with a baggage claim belt. Due to the compact size and relatively low traffic, the time required for all procedures, including check-in and security, is usually minimal. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight and 2–3 hours before an international one.

Navigating Nampula Airport requires little effort. Signs will help you orient yourself quickly, although getting lost here is practically impossible. All infrastructure is concentrated in one hall, allowing you to find the check-in counter, pass security, and proceed to boarding without any fuss. It is a simple and convenient airport, ideal for starting or ending a journey in this region.

The history of Nampula Airport (APL) is closely linked to the development of the entire northern region of Mozambique. Its story begins in the colonial period when it was founded as a military airfield for the Portuguese Air Force under the name Aeródromo Base nº 5. Initially, its main task was to provide air support and logistics for military operations, serving as a secondary base relative to the country's larger airfields.

After Mozambique gained independence in 1975, the airport came under the control of the national armed forces and became an important base for the country's Air Force. During the civil war years, it played a key strategic role, which determined its predominantly military character for a long time. Civilian infrastructure was minimal, and the airport could not fully serve the growing needs of the region.

A key moment in the modern history of the airport was a large-scale reconstruction completed in 2012. The project involved the construction of a completely new, modern passenger terminal, a new control tower, and the expansion of the runway. Thanks to this modernisation, the airport's capacity grew to 500,000 passengers per year, transforming it into a fully-fledged civil hub capable of receiving international flights.

Today, Nampula Airport is a modern transport hub that retains its dual function, serving both civil and military needs. It is a vital aerial gateway for northern Mozambique, contributing to economic growth, tourism development, and the implementation of major infrastructure projects in the region, particularly within the framework of the Nacala Corridor.

Nampula Airport (APL) is a key transport hub in northern Mozambique. Despite its relatively small size, it provides passengers with all the necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. The airport's infrastructure is focused on meeting the basic needs of travellers.

Dining and Shopping: Several cafés and snack bars operate within the terminal, where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase refreshments. The selection of establishments is small but sufficient to pass the time before departure. There are also small shops offering essential goods, newspapers, and local souvenirs.

Waiting Lounges and Wi-Fi: A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. For those who prefer enhanced comfort, a VIP Lounge (Sala VIP) is available, services for which are usually provided for an additional fee or for business class passengers. Wi-Fi access at the airport may be limited, and the number of charging stations for electronic devices is small, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

Financial and Medical Services: Bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points are located in the airport building, allowing you to easily resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. A medical post operates to provide emergency assistance.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs: The airport provides assistance to passengers with reduced mobility. To obtain a wheelchair and escort to the aircraft, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. Special play areas for passengers with children are not provided; however, baby changing tables may be available in the restrooms.

Business Services and Hotels: There are no specialised conference rooms or business centres at the airport. You can use the VIP lounge services to work in a quiet environment. There are no hotels on the terminal grounds, but the city of Nampula itself, located a few minutes' drive away, offers many accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.

Nampula Airport (APL) is a compact regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Passengers should not expect a large food court with many restaurants, but there is an opportunity to have a snack before departure or upon arrival.

The main and, as a rule, the only place to eat is a small café or snack bar located in the main terminal. It is situated in the public zone (landside), before passport control and security. After passing security control (airside), the choice of establishments will likely be absent, so it is better to refresh yourself in advance.

The café menu is focused on quick snacks rather than a full lunch or dinner. The assortment usually includes:

• Quick snacks: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and other packaged snacks.
• Drinks: coffee, tea, bottled water, juices, and carbonated beverages.
• Local dishes: sometimes you can find snacks popular in Mozambique, for example, "chamussas" (samosas) or "rissóis" (patties). This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with local flavours right at the airport.

If you have enough time, it is recommended to plan a more substantial lunch or dinner at one of the city's restaurants. As for specialised diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), finding suitable options at the airport is extremely unlikely. Travellers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them.

Prices in the airport café are generally higher than in city establishments. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule to serve passengers of departing and arriving aircraft.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Nampula city goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, use these proven tips. This is a small regional airport, so many procedures here are faster than in major international hubs, but preparation is never amiss.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. For domestic flights within Mozambique, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours. This time will be sufficient for a calm check-in and security control. If the airline offers online check-in, take advantage of this opportunity to save time.

Hand Luggage and Security Control. Hand luggage rules are standard: liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and sharp objects are prohibited. Customs control usually passes quickly, but if you are carrying items subject to declaration, prepare the necessary documents in advance.

Seat Selection and In-flight Comfort. At check-in, if there is an option to choose, prefer a window seat to enjoy the views during takeoff and landing. If freedom of movement is more important to you, choose an aisle seat. Passengers with long layovers should study the airport map in advance to find a café or a comfortable place to wait for the next flight.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay? In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. They are obliged to provide you with up-to-date information, and depending on the waiting time — drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Remain calm and clarify your rights as a passenger.

Saving Money and Useful Hacks. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — it can be filled after passing security control. It is also useful to have a portable charger for gadgets, as the number of power sockets in the waiting lounge may be limited.