Plizio Visual Lab

Macuti Lighthouse

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

The Macuti Lighthouse, located near the beach of the same name in Beira, is an iconic maritime structure and a landmark of Mozambique's second-largest city. It was constructed in 1904 to aid navigation in the challenging waters approaching Beira's harbor, which are characterized by dangerous sandbars and powerful tides. The tower is easily recognized by its distinctive red and white striped paintwork and reaches a height of approximately 28 meters. For decades, it served as an indispensable guide for international shipping that used Beira as a gateway to the interior of Southeast Africa. During the devastating Cyclone Idai in 2019, the lighthouse sustained significant damage but remained standing as a symbol of the city's resilience. The area surrounding the lighthouse is a popular gathering spot for locals, offering expansive views over the Indian Ocean. Its architecture merges functional maritime engineering with early 20th-century colonial style. It stands not only as a technical monument but as a vital part of the cultural heritage of the Sofala region.

Location: Mozambique
Top sights: Praia do Estoril · Praça dos Descobrimentos · Monumento aos Heróis Moçambicanos

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	26	25	23	22	23	24	25	27	28
Rain mm	158	149	145	75	27	29	37	8	14	26	57	170

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

Macuti Lighthouse is accessible from the outside at any time, but the interior is usually closed. The lighthouse sits on a small hill with sea views.

🕒

Typical hours

The outdoor area is freely accessible at all times as it is public space. The interior's opening hours are not regularly announced.

📷

Photography

Photographing the lighthouse from the outside is naturally allowed. The best shots are at sunset with the sea in the background.

⏱️

Time needed

Visiting the outdoor area takes about 15-20 minutes, including a walk around the tower. Allow 30 minutes to explore the surroundings.

➕

Combine with

The lighthouse is in Beira, near the waterfront promenade which is great for a stroll. Beira's beach is also within walking distance.

🧭

Getting there

The lighthouse is about 10 minutes by taxi from central Beira. Alternatively, take a 'chapa' minibus to the coast.

💡

Insider tip

Come in the late afternoon when the light is best and a fresh breeze blows. Sturdy shoes are recommended due to uneven terrain.

Geography

Coordinates

-19.84560, 34.89670

Facts

Built: 1904
Tower height: approx. 28 meters
Light range: 18 nautical miles
Location: Macuti Beach, Beira
Color scheme: Red and white horizontal stripes
Significance: Survived the impact of Cyclone Idai in 2019

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Grande Hotel Beira6 km · SExplore →

Beira Marine Park6 km · SEExplore →

Cathedral of Beira7 km · SExplore →

Buzi River22 km · SExplore →

Old Sofala (Nova Sofala)34 km · SWExplore →

Mafambisse Sugar Mill42 km · SEExplore →

Savane Lake54 km · SEExplore →

Gorongosa National Park93 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Macuti Lighthouse (4)

Praia do Estoril🎡 recreation

Praia do Estoril is an expansive sandy beach in Beira located along the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Praça dos Descobrimentos 🏺 historical

The Praça dos Descobrimentos in Beira commemorates the era of Portuguese seafarers and explorers with its monumental structures.

Monumento aos Heróis Moçambicanos🏺 historical

The Monumento aos Heróis Moçambicanos in Beira honours the brave fighters who gave their lives for Mozambique's independence.

Farol do Macuti 📍 landmark

The Farol do Macuti is an iconic, distinctively striped lighthouse that has marked the coast of Beira since the 20th century.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can one climb the lighthouse?

Often not accessible, please ask on site.

Is it photogenic?

Yes, great subject on the beach.

When is the best moment?

At sunrise.

Is it still in operation?

Partially out of service.

Is there an entry fee?

No, it is a public place.

Macuti Lighthouse: where is it located?

Macuti Lighthouse is located in Mozambique.

Macuti Lighthouse: what is there to see?

Highlights include Praia do Estoril, Praça dos Descobrimentos, Monumento aos Heróis Moçambicanos.

Macuti Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Macuti Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?

The Macuti Lighthouse, located near the beach of the same name in Beira, is an iconic maritime structure and a landmark of Mozambique's second-largest city.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Macuti Lighthouse

Best time to visit & climate