Angola Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Luanda – Capital city with beaches, museums, and colonial architecture
- Kalandula Falls – One of Africa’s largest waterfalls
- Benguela – Coastal town with scenic railway and Portuguese influence
- Namibe Desert – Stunning desert landscapes and rock formations
- Lubango – Home to Serra da Leba mountain pass and Christ the King statue
- Kissama National Park – Wildlife safari and conservation area
- Cabinda – Enclave known for natural reserves and oil industry
- Tundavala Gap – Breathtaking viewpoint over cliffs and valleys
Best Hotels to Stay
- EPIC SANA Luanda – Luxury hotel with ocean views
- Hotel Presidente Luanda – Centrally located business hotel
- Palmeiras Suite Hotel – Business-class with good amenities
- IU Hotel Huambo – Budget option in Huambo
Language & Culture
Portuguese is the official language, and local Bantu languages such as Umbundu and Kimbundu are widely spoken. Angola has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Portuguese colonization and indigenous traditions. Music and dance, especially kuduro and semba, play a significant role in daily life and celebrations. The Angolan people are warm and family-oriented, with deep respect for elders and customs. Visitors are encouraged to be polite, dress modestly, and show cultural sensitivity when interacting with locals.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transport: Domestic flights, taxis, shared vans, private drivers
- Currency: Angolan Kwanza (AOA), but USD is often accepted in major hotels
- Food: Popular dishes include funge (cassava porridge), moamba de galinha (chicken stew), calulu, grilled fish, and fresh tropical fruits
Visa & Entry Requirements
Most travelers to Angola require a visa, which can be applied for through the Angolan embassy or via the online e-visa system. Visas typically allow stays of up to 30 days and must be used within 60 days of issue. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity. Proof of accommodation, return ticket, and sufficient funds may be required.
Travel Tips
- Carry both cash and a debit card. Credit card acceptance is improving but not universal.
- Learn a few Portuguese phrases as English is not widely spoken.
- Take malaria prophylaxis and use mosquito repellent in rural areas.
- Use bottled water; avoid ice in drinks unless from a trusted source.
- Traffic can be intense—consider hiring a driver or using reputable taxi apps.
- Photography of government buildings is prohibited—always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
- Street food is delicious but choose vendors with high turnover and clean setups.
Best Season & Entry Points
| Region | Best Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North (Luanda) | June – September | Cool and dry season |
| Central Highlands | May – August | Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing |
| Southern Angola | April – October | Dry season, best for travel |
Major airports: Luanda (LAD), Lubango (SDD), Catumbela (CBT)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $1,200 – $2,500 | Round trip from US/EU |
| Accommodation | $80 – $250/night | Mid-range hotels |
| Dining | $30 – $60/day | Street food and local restaurants |
| Transport | $20 – $40/day | Taxi or driver |
| Activities | $50 – $150 | Tours, parks, museum fees |
Cost of Living
| Item | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom, city center) | $800 – $1,500 |
| Utilities | $100 – $200 |
| Groceries | $200 – $350 |
| Dining Out | $150 – $300 |
| Internet & Mobile | $60 – $100 |
| Leisure & Fitness | $50 – $120 |
Housing & Real Estate
| Type | Rent (Monthly) | Buy Price (Per m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment (City Center) | $1,000 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Apartment (Outside Center) | $600 – $1,200 | $1,200 – $2,200 |
| Condominium (High-end) | $1,800 – $3,500 | $2,800 – $4,000 |
| House (Middle-Class Subdivision) | $1,000 – $2,500 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Car Prices & Options
| Car Type | Price Range (USD) | Options |
|---|---|---|
| Used Sedan | $6,000 – $12,000 | Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Accent |
| New Sedan | $18,000 – $30,000 | Toyota Camry, Kia K5 |
| SUV (Used) | $10,000 – $25,000 | Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape |
| SUV (New) | $30,000 – $60,000 | Land Cruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero |
| Pickup/4×4 | $25,000 – $45,000 | Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara |
Packing List Suggestions
- Valid passport and visa documentation
- Light clothing and a jacket for cooler evenings
- Power adapter (Type C), mosquito repellent
- Comfortable walking shoes and sun hat
- Sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and basic medication
- Reusable water bottle and travel insurance
20 Basic Phrases
| Portuguese | English |
|---|---|
| Olá | Hello |
| Obrigado/Obrigada | Thank you |
| Por favor | Please |
| Sim / Não | Yes / No |
| Quanto custa? | How much? |
| Onde fica o banheiro? | Where is the restroom? |
| Eu não entendo | I don’t understand |
| Você fala inglês? | Do you speak English? |
| Ajude-me | Help me |
| Estou perdido | I’m lost |
| Meu nome é… | My name is… |
| Bom dia | Good morning |
| Boa noite | Good night |
| Sou de… | I’m from… |
| Posso tirar uma foto? | Can I take a photo? |
| O cardápio, por favor | The menu, please |
| Até logo | Goodbye |
| Desculpe | Sorry / Excuse me |
| É muito caro | That’s too expensive |
| Você pode fazer desconto? | Can you give a discount? |
Health & Safety
- Tap water is not safe—use bottled or treated water
- Emergency contacts: 113 (police), 112 (general), 115 (ambulance)
- Traffic and road conditions can be challenging—drive cautiously
- Use mosquito nets or repellents in rural areas
- Vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A & B are recommended
- Petty crime exists—avoid displaying valuables
Festivals & Holidays
- Independence Day – November 11
- Carnaval – February/March (varies by year)
- Peace Day – April 4
- Christmas Day – December 25
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Our Lady of Muxima Pilgrimage – August
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Angola?
Yes, most travelers need a visa. Angola offers an e-visa option and visas via embassies.
Is Angola safe for tourists?
Yes, but exercise caution especially at night. Use official taxis and avoid isolated areas.
What is the best time to visit Angola?
The dry season (May to September) is best for travel and outdoor activities.
Can I drink tap water?
No. Use bottled or purified water only.
What currency should I carry?
The Angolan Kwanza (AOA) is official, but USD is accepted in some hotels and businesses.
Is English spoken widely?
Portuguese is official. English is limited outside hotels and tourist areas—learn basic phrases.
Are vaccinations required?
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Others like hepatitis A/B and typhoid are recommended.
What kind of power plugs are used?
Type C is common. Bring an adapter if your devices use a different plug.
Can I use credit cards?
Yes, in major cities. Cash is still necessary in smaller towns and markets.
Can I drive in Angola with a foreign license?
Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended along with your national license.
