“Lethal attacks” by groups with Islamist links have forced the UK Government to warn against all but essential travel to two regions in Mozambique. Britain has identified the Mecula, Mavago and Marrupa districts of Niassa Province, in the north of the southern African country, as particularly dangerous.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) website advises: “Groups with links to Islamist extremism have previously carried out attacks in the Mecula, Mavago and Marrupa districts of Niassa Province.
“FCDO advise against all but essential travel to the Mecula and Marrupo districts of Niassa Province. There have been recent lethal attacks there within Niassa Special Reserve at hunting lodges visited by international tourists. Groups with links to Islamic extremism have previously carried out attacks in the Mavago district as well. Stay aware of your surroundings in this area, as the situation may change without warning.”
Insurance expert Alicia Hempsted, from MoneySuperMarket, warns Brits who travel to those areas in Mozambique will invalidate their travel insurance.
“Most standard travel insurance policies include clauses that exclude coverage if you travel to a destination where the FCDO advises against travel, even if you’re not aware of a change to FCDO advice,” she said.
“You can set up alerts for the country that you’re planning to visit, so that you can stay up to date with any government safety warnings. You can do so by visiting the FCDO website.”
If you really must travel to the area, then you will need to take out specialist travel insurance. She said: “If you have an essential need to travel to a country or area that’s high risk, then you should contact your insurer. If your policy does not provide coverage, you will need to take out a specialist insurance policy to cover your trip.
“High-risk travel insurance is available to cover travel to countries on the FCDO list, for instance, countries where there has been a natural disaster, war zones and countries currently facing outbreaks of diseases/viruses. You’ll likely pay more for specialist insurance, but it’s an important safety net. When travelling to high-risk destinations, it is important to stay extra vigilant and advise loved ones of your travel plans.”