ANGOLA TRAVEL GUIDE
"Little Latin America" is one way of describing Angola. Angolans are known for their love of music and dance, which is evident in their everyday lives. It's been a slow process to get Angola back to its feet - Angola may not be the most developed of nations, scarred as it is, by the years of strife and it would require someone with a sense of adventure to venture forth here, but once there you will encounter friendly locals and witness a country trying to get a second lease of life.
Capital: Luanda
Currency: kwanza (AOA)
Area: 1,246,700 km²
Population: 30,81 million (2018)
Language: Portuguese (official), Bantu and other African languages
Religion: Indigenous beliefs 47%, Roman Catholic 38%, Protestant 15% (1998 est.)
DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR
ANGOLA?
<<VISA RESULT>>
<< Visa Details >>
For the latest requirements or for application click
Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.
BEST TIME TO VISIT ANGOLA
Angola has two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season.
- The dry season, also known as the cool season, runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is cooler and drier, with temperatures averaging between 20-30°C (68-86°F). This is generally considered the best time to visit Angola for tourism, as the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities and the landscapes are less lush.
- The rainy season, also known as the hot season, runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warmer and wetter, with temperatures averaging between 25-35°C (77-95°F) and high humidity. The rains bring an explosion of life, the green landscapes and waterfalls are at their best, and it’s a perfect time to see the wildlife.
It is also worth mentioning that Angola has a tropical savannah climate, and some regions, like the southern provinces, have a slightly different rainfall pattern, with higher rainfall in the months of January and February.
The best time to visit Angola depends on your personal preferences and the specific activities you plan to do during your visit. Angola has a tropical climate with two seasons: a dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April. The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit for tourism, as the weather is cooler and drier, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities. However, the rainy season can also be a good time to visit if you're interested in seeing the country's lush vegetation and waterfalls. Additionally, if you're interested in seeing wildlife, the rainy season is also a good time for it as the animals are more active and easier to spot.
ANGOLA WEATHER SYNOPSIS
Angola’s rainy season lasts from October-May and is characterised as hot and humid. The Inter-tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) controls rainfall as it moves between the equator and tropics, bringing rainfall to Angola as it migrates southward from the equator in October. The rains coincide with the warmest months of the year with average temperatures ranging from 22-23°C. The dry season, known as “Cacimbo,” occurs from June-September and is the coolest time of the year, with average temperatures between 18-20°C. Total rainfall decreases as you move from north to south and from east to west in Angola, with northeastern Angola receiving the most amount of rain. Located along the Atlantic Ocean, much of Angola's climate is tied to sea surface temperatures and variations in the Benguela Cold Current.
ANGOLA TOURIST SEASONS
Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.
Peak Season
Shoulder Season
Off Peak Season
JANUARY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
FEBRUARY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
MARCH
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
APRIL
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
MAY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
JUNE
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
JULY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
AUGUST
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
SEPTEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
OCTOBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
NOVEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
DECEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
HOT MONTHS:
.
MODERATE MONTHS:
.
COLD MONTHS:
.
WET MONTHS:
.
DRY MONTHS:
.
BEST TIME FOR
SNOW SPORT IN ANGOLA
HIKING & CYCLING IN ANGOLA
You can enjoy a guided outdoor expedition in Angola during the dry season, from July to October.
BEACH OPTIONS IN ANGOLA
SURFING IN ANGOLA
Angola offers good surfing conditions from June to October. Consider opting for a guided surf safari which will take you to the best waves near Cabo Ledo.
KITESURF IN ANGOLA
It is possible to wind and kitesurfing on Mussulo Lagoon in Angola from October to April, although it's not particularly a kitesurfing destination and it's not really suited to beginners.
BEST TIME FOR
LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES TO
ANGOLA?
FIND YOUR
PERFECT
DESTINATION
Advanced, real-time destination filter by visa required, region, health risk, travel budget, country value, tourist seasons, best weather and activity or sport.
HEALTH RISKS IN ANGOLA
Be aware of possible health risks in
Angola
Yellow fever - The yellow fever virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medicine to treat or cure an infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.
Zika Virus - Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika.
Malaria - Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented.
Dengue - Dengue is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. For people who get sick with dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe.
ANGOLA TRAVEL COSTS
The cost of traveling to Angola can vary depending on your travel itinerary and personal preferences. Some of the main expenses to consider when budgeting for a trip to Angola include airfare, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities.
- Airfare: Round-trip flights to Angola from major cities in Europe or North America can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more depending on the departure city and the time of year.
- Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Angola can vary widely depending on where you stay and the type of accommodation you choose. Prices for budget hotels or guesthouses can start at around $20 per night, while prices for more upscale hotels or resorts can reach $200 or more per night.
- Transportation: The cost of transportation within Angola can vary depending on how you choose to get around. Public transportation options such as buses and taxis are relatively inexpensive, but you can also rent a car or hire a driver for more flexibility.
- Food: The cost of food in Angola can also vary depending on where you eat and what you order. Street food and local markets tend to be cheaper, while dining in restaurants or hotels can be more expensive.
- Activities: The cost of activities in Angola can vary widely depending on what you plan to do. Visiting national parks, historical sites and other touristic places will require an entrance fee, while activities like hiking and adventure sports can be more expensive.
Overall, it's possible to travel to Angola on a budget, but it also depends on your travel style and what you want to experience, a budget of $50-100 per day per person should be enough for a budget trip, while a mid-range to luxury trip can reach $200-500 per day per person.
A sample budget for a trip to Angola could look something like this:
- Airfare: $700 (round-trip from a major city in Europe or North America)
- Accommodation: $30 per night for budget hotel or guesthouse, or $100-150 per night for mid-range hotel or resort.
- Transportation: $10-20 per day for public transportation (buses and taxis), or $50-100 per day for renting a car or hiring a driver.
- Food: $10-20 per day for budget meals (street food and local markets), or $20-30 per meal in restaurants.
- Activities: $20-50 per day for national park entrance fees, historical sites, and other touristic places, or $50-100 per day for adventure sports and other activities.
Total daily budget: $50-100 per day per person (budget trip), $200-300 per day per person (mid-range trip) and $500-800 per day per person (luxury trip)
Keep in mind that this is just a sample budget and your actual expenses may be higher or lower depending on your travel itinerary and personal preferences. Prices may also vary depending on the season and the location. It's always good to have extra money for unexpected expenses.
It's also worth noting that Angola is a cash-based economy and it's recommended to have some local currency (Kwanza) on hand as not all places accept credit card payments.
ANGOLA TRAVEL TIPS
Here are some travel tips for Angola:
- Get vaccinated: Some parts of Angola are at risk of yellow fever, so be sure to get vaccinated before your trip. It's also recommended to get other routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, and your yearly flu shot.
- Get travel insurance: Angola is a country with a low health-care infrastructure, it's recommended to get travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation.
- Learn some Portuguese: Angola's official language is Portuguese, so it's helpful to learn some basic phrases before your trip. Many people in the main cities and tourist areas speak English, but it's always appreciated to speak the local language.
- Be prepared for power outages: Power outages are common in Angola, so it's a good idea to bring a flashlight or headlamp and a portable charger for your electronic devices.
- Pack for the weather: Angola has a tropical climate, so pack accordingly. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. During the rainy season, pack a raincoat and waterproof shoes.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Angola has a relatively low crime rate, but it's still important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in the big cities. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry and be mindful of pickpockets.
- Respect the culture: Angola is a country with a rich cultural heritage, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of your behavior in religious sites and ceremonies.
- Be prepared for poor road conditions: Road conditions in Angola can be poor, especially in rural areas. Be prepared for long travel times and bring a spare tire and other essential car tools.
- Avoid tap water: Tap water in Angola is not safe to drink, so it's best to stick to bottled water or boil tap water before drinking.
SIGHTS & HIGHLIGHTS OF ANGOLA
Angola is divided into 18 provinces. Here is a brief overview of some of the main regions of Angola and the highlights of each region:
- Luanda: The capital city of Angola, Luanda, is located on the Atlantic coast and is the country's economic and cultural center. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Fortaleza de São Miguel, a 16th-century fort, and take in the views from the top of the Miradouro da Lua, a viewpoint overlooking the city.
- Benguela: Located on the Atlantic coast, Benguela is a historic city known for its colonial architecture and beaches. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the beautiful Praia Morena beach, and take a tour of the Benguela railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Huambo: Known as the "City of Friendship," Huambo is located in the highlands of Angola and is known for its stunning mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception, and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
- Huíla: Located in southern Angola, Huíla is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Serra da Leba mountain range and the Tundavala Gorge. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Tundavala viewpoint, and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
- Namibe: Located in southern Angola, Namibe is known for its beautiful beaches and coastal scenery. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Namibe Museum, and take a walk along the beach.
- Cabinda: An enclave located in the north of Angola, Cabinda is known for its rich culture and history, as well as its natural beauty. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Forte de São Francisco Xavier, and take a tour of the nearby beaches and forests.
- Kwanza Norte: Located in northern Angola, Kwanza Norte is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Calandula Waterfall. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Calandula Waterfall, and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
- Malange: Located in northern Angola, Malange is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Calandula Waterfall. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Calandula Waterfall, and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
Keep in mind that this is just a brief overview and Angola has much more to offer to visitors, including national parks, cultural heritage sites, traditional villages and more.
Here are some of the best things to see and do when visiting Angola:
- Visit the capital city of Luanda: The capital city of Angola, Luanda, is located on the Atlantic coast and is the country's economic and cultural center. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Fortaleza de São Miguel, a 16th-century fort, and take in the views from the top of the Miradouro da Lua, a viewpoint overlooking the city.
- Explore the colonial architecture of Benguela: Located on the Atlantic coast, Benguela is a historic city known for its colonial architecture and beaches. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the beautiful Praia Morena beach, and take a tour of the Benguela railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Take in the stunning mountain scenery of Huambo: Known as the "City of Friendship," Huambo is located in the highlands of Angola and is known for its stunning mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception, and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
- Hike in the Serra da Leba mountain range and the Tundavala Gorge: Located in southern Angola, Huíla is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Serra da Leba mountain range and the Tundavala Gorge. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Tundavala viewpoint, and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
- Visit the Calandula Waterfall: Located in northern Angola, the Calandula waterfall is one of the most famous in Angola, and it's one of the most visited places in Angola. Visitors can explore the waterfall and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
- Visit the Tundavala viewpoint: Located in southern Angola, the Tundavala viewpoint is one of the most famous in Angola, and it's one of the most visited places in Angola. Visitors can explore the viewpoint and take a hike in the nearby mountains.
- Visit the Namibe Museum: Located in southern Angola, the Namibe Museum is one of the most famous in Angola, and it's one of the most visited places in Angola. Visitors can explore the museum and take a walk along the beach.
- Visit the Forte de São Francisco Xavier in Cabinda: An enclave located in the north of Angola, Cabinda is known for its rich culture and history, as well as its natural beauty. Visitors can explore the historic city center, visit the Forte de São Francisco Xavier, and take a tour of the nearby beaches and forests.
- Visit Angola's national parks: Angola has several national parks, such as the Kissama National Park, where visitors can explore the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes of the country.
- Experience Angola's culture: Angola has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can experience it by visiting traditional villages, attending cultural events and festivals, or by visiting its museums and art galleries.
WHAT TO EAT IN ANGOLA
Angola has a diverse culinary scene, with influences from its indigenous, Portuguese, Brazilian, and African cultures. Here are some traditional dishes and ingredients that you should try when visiting Angola:
- Moamba de Galinha: A traditional dish made with chicken, palm oil, and peanuts, often served with rice and vegetables.
- Funge: A traditional staple made from either corn, cassava or yam flour, it is a thick porridge-like dish that is often eaten with stews, soups, or as a side dish.
- Muamba de gafanhoto: A traditional dish made with grasshoppers, palm oil, and peanuts, often served with rice and vegetables.
- Matapa: A traditional dish made with cassava leaves, peanuts, and palm oil, often served with rice or fish.
- Piri-piri chicken: A traditional dish made with chicken marinated in a spicy sauce made with piri-piri peppers.
- Cachupa: A traditional dish made with corn and beans, often slow-cooked with meat and vegetables.
- Calulu: A traditional dish made with fish, vegetables, and palm oil, often served with rice.
- Malasadas: A traditional Portuguese-style doughnut that is deep-fried and dusted with sugar.
- Pão de queijo: A traditional Brazilian-style cheese bread, made with tapioca flour, cheese and eggs.
- Matete: A traditional dish made with sweet potatoes, peanuts and palm oil, often served as a side dish or a dessert
It is worth noting that seafood is abundant and quite popular in Angola, especially in the coastal regions, and you can find a variety of fish and shellfish dishes that are delicious. Additionally, depending on the region you will find different ingredients and dishes, and you may find meat, such as wild game, in some areas.
LGBTQ IN ANGOLA
WHERE TO STAY IN ANGOLA
For first-time visitors to Angola, selecting the right area or region to stay in is essential for experiencing the country's diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historical sites. Here are recommendations for each region:
Where to Stay in Luanda (Luanda Province):
As the capital city, Luanda offers a bustling urban environment, vibrant nightlife, and a mix of modern and colonial architecture.
Budget: Residence DB - Affordable rooms with a central location and easy access to city attractions.
Mid-range: EPIC SANA Luanda Hotel - Comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and a rooftop pool.
Luxury: Talatona Convention Hotel - Luxury stay with spacious rooms, gourmet dining options, and wellness facilities.
Where to Stay in Benguela (Benguela Province):
Benguela is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cultural scene, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.
Budget: Hotel Residencial Ramire-Tour - Affordable rooms with beachfront access and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
Mid-range: Aparthotel Mil Cidades - Comfortable accommodations with sea views and easy access to city attractions.
Luxury: Hotel Mombaka - Luxury stay with elegant rooms, beachfront location, and upscale dining options.
Where to Stay in Huambo (Huambo Province):
Huambo offers stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, mountains, and forests, as well as historical sites and cultural experiences.
Budget: Hotel Ekuikui I - Affordable rooms with basic amenities and a central location.
Mid-range: Hotel Roma Ritz - Comfortable accommodations with modern facilities and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Luxury: Hotel Ekuikui II - Luxury stay with spacious rooms, upscale dining options, and wellness facilities.
Where to Stay in Lubango (Huíla Province):
Lubango is known for its dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Tundavala Gap and Serra da Leba Mountain pass, as well as cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
Budget: Hotel Serra da Chela - Affordable rooms with mountain views and a restaurant serving local dishes.
Mid-range: Hotel Tivoli - Comfortable accommodations with a central location and easy access to city attractions.
Luxury: Hotel Lubango - Luxury stay with elegant rooms, gourmet dining options, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
For hassle-free bookings, use platforms like Booking.com for competitive rates or Holiday Swap for unique homes worldwide. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and align your preferences with nearby activities such as surfing, snorkeling, or cultural exploration.
CHOOSE NEXT DESTINATION
PLAN YOUR TRIP
VISA SERVICES
Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they also provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.
FLIGHTS
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. These are our favorite flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.
ACCOMMODATION
Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com, we have found Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. For longer stays, find unique homes worldwide on Holiday Swap, the most affordable travel platform that allows you to book homes anytime, anywhere in only a few clicks.
TRANSPORT
DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip. 12Go connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.
INSURANCE
Travel insurance can protect you against unexpected illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.
-
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance (Global Travel Medical)
Need more help to book your trip?
Check our complete resource page for all the best companies to use when you travel. You will only find the companies we use ourselves.
Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you,
we may earn a commission if you end up making a purchase and the income goes to keeping the site ad free.
SEARCH FOR FLIGHTS TO
ANGOLA
Search for flights to
ANGOLA