Renting a car in Pemba is a good way to reach the beaches and coastline of northern Mozambique, but Mozambican driving has some specific legal requirements that are strictly enforced, so it pays to be prepared. Pemba is one of the country's rental hubs alongside Maputo and Vilanculos, and a hire car gives you flexibility, provided you carry the right equipment and paperwork.
Documents and mandatory equipment
Mozambique drives on the left. To rent, you will need your passport, driving licence, an International Driving Permit, and a credit or debit card. There is one requirement that catches many visitors out: by law, the vehicle must carry two red emergency reflective triangles that stand on their own, and two reflective vests in a yellow or green colour, and if you cannot produce them, you can face an on-the-spot fine. Check the rental car has these before you leave the depot, along with a fire extinguisher. Comparison sites such as DiscoverCars help you check availability and prices in Pemba in advance.
Police roadblocks
Police roadblocks are common in Mozambique, and officers frequently stop drivers to check paperwork. Have everything ready to show: licence, IDP, passport, the triangles, and the vests. Occasionally officers may seek an informal payment; if you are told you are being fined without a clear reason, it is reasonable to ask for a written fine that you can pay at a police station rather than paying cash at the roadside. Staying calm and having your documents in order keeps most stops straightforward.
Roads and booking tips
Main roads along the coast are reasonable, but many rural routes are unpaved and can be rough, so a four-wheel-drive is worth considering for beach and bush travel, especially in the rainy season. Compulsory third-party insurance applies, and you should read what your rental cover includes and the excess. Avoid driving after dark outside towns, where conditions and hazards are harder to judge. Book ahead in the peak season, and confirm the vehicle carries the legally required equipment before you set off.