Hotel Polana

I stayed at the Polana on business, so fortunately someone else footed the bill. Given its reputation, I had really looked forward to staying there, but sadly was somewhat disappointed. There's nothing really wrong with the hotel, but I had a sense of missed opportunity. It is such a Grand Old Lady of a hotel that I had been expecting faded elegance and a sense of history: instead, the Dowager appeared to have had one too many face lifts, and had lost much of her character in the process! If I think of similar hotels in Southern Africa - particularly the Victoria Falls Hotel - I think that they have preserved the sense of grandeur and history much better.

In summary, there's no longer much to distinguish the Polana from any other luxury international hotel. It's pleasant and enjoyable, but I think that there is better value to be had in Maputo, and I personally prefer to stay in the Holiday Inn, at a much more affordable price, when I'm travelling to Maputo.

Unique Quality: The hotel building is stunning to look at, and the terrace overlooking the sea is breathtaking, especially in the evening (and particularly when the sea breeze provides respite from those sultry, humid summer nights). An ideal place to indulge in an icy cold 2M beer!

A wonderful 5 star hotel, in the Polana area of Maputo. Beautiful sea views.
All the facilities you would expect from a 5-star hotel.
Very friendly staff and very safe.

Unique Quality: The Saturday night seafood buffet dinner.
Great views.
Fantastic pool.

You get what you pay for. And Polana has it all:

• Casino
• Presidential Suites
• Swimming Pools
• Tennis Courts
• Art Gallery
• Conference Facilities
• Gym/Steam Room/Aerobics
• Several bars and restaurants

My budget did not allow me to stay there, but I did go for a visit. They have large verandas overlooking Maputo Bay and a huge outdoor pool. It might be worth a quick swim and a drink if your budget is like mine. They have several gift shops that actually do offer a descent range of gifts (rare in Maputo). The staff are friendly, immaculate and attentive. It is a first class hotel.

They also have a Casino if you want to gamble.

Directions: In the South East corner of the city, right on Maputo Bay

The Polana is the finest 5***** star hotel in Maputo.

Except for the Presidential Suite, which is $1,000 USD per night, room rates for its 178 rooms range from $150 to $450 US dollars.

quote:
"Hotel Polana is a majestic building with a history stretching back many years, now lovingly restored to offer modern convenience hand in hand with the leisurely luxury and service of the colonial past".

The stay in the Polana was really a great experience! We had a room in the newer part of the hotel - built directly into the slope overwiewing the nice bay of Maputo. Every room had its own balcony, a good working airconditioning and a luxurious bathroom with both shower and tub.
Visit the bar! Its worth it. They offer a nice variety of drinks and cocktails for reasonable prices. You will get usefull informations on Maputo if you chat with the barkeeper ;-)

Unique Quality: They have a nice pool in the courtyard viewing over the bay.
In the new part of the hotel there are facilities for both fitness and sauna.
Very good breakfast on the terrace.

The Polana Hotel has remained one of the best hotels in Maputo over the years. The hotel is a massive colonial building adjacent to the Presidents Palace and Embassies overlooking the Bay of Maputo.
Being a 5-Star Hotel it offers all amenities, several restaurants, bars, gym, pool as well as a casino.

Unique Quality: If you like colonial luxury this is your address. The hotel offers a variety of rooms including several large suites.

Directions: From the town centre turn left into Avenide Julius Nyerere - the hotel will be on the right hand side.