Low – budget‑friendly basics
Medium – moderate mid‑range costs
High – pricey lodging, dining & transport
Angola
intro
An off-the-beaten-path destination for the truly adventurous, Angola is a large nation in Southern Africa that is emerging from a long and difficult past. It offers a diverse landscape of pristine tropical beaches, a vast interior with dramatic escarpments and waterfalls, and a rich, resilient culture. Travel here is a challenging but rewarding expedition into a country that sees very few tourists.
Additional Information
Angola is a land of incredible natural beauty and potential. After decades of civil war, the country is now peaceful and slowly opening up to tourism, but the infrastructure is still very undeveloped. The capital, Luanda, is a city of stark contrasts, with a modern, oil-fueled skyline next to sprawling informal settlements, and is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. The country's coastline offers beautiful, empty beaches, while the interior is home to spectacular natural wonders like the massive Kalandula Falls and the dramatic Tundavala Gap.
The culture is a rich blend of African traditions and Portuguese colonial influence. A journey through Angola is not for the novice traveler; it requires a high degree of patience, resilience, and often a lot of money. However, for those willing to take on the challenge, it offers a glimpse into a beautiful and complex country on the cusp of rediscovery.
Reasons to Visit
- Pristine Natural Wonders: Witness spectacular and uncrowded natural sights, including the massive Kalandula Falls.
- Off-the-Grid Adventure: Experience a true adventure in a vast and beautiful country that is well and truly off the beaten tourist track.
- Diverse Landscapes: Discover a country that ranges from tropical coastlines and lush highlands to the beginnings of the Namib Desert in the south.
- Resilient Culture: Interact with a proud and resilient people and experience a unique blend of African and Portuguese cultures.
Things to Avoid
- Independent Travel without Portuguese: English is not widely spoken. Traveling independently is very difficult without a good command of Portuguese or a local guide.
- Ignoring Safety Concerns: While the war is over, crime can be an issue in Luanda. It is important to be very cautious, especially after dark. Landmines can still be a risk in remote, rural areas.
- Taking Photos of Official Buildings: Do not photograph government buildings, military sites, or infrastructure without permission.
- Expecting an Easy Trip: Travel in Angola is difficult. Roads are often in terrible condition, and the tourist infrastructure is almost non-existent.
Local Transportation Tips
Domestic flights are the most practical way to cover the vast distances between Angola's regions. For travel between towns, 'candongueiros' (shared minivan taxis) are the main form of public transport. Renting a 4x4 vehicle is essential for any independent travel outside of the main cities, but self-driving is only recommended for very experienced travelers.
Travel Etiquette
- Greetings: A polite handshake is the standard greeting.
- Patience: Things often do not run on schedule. A patient and flexible attitude is essential.
- Respect for Authority: Be respectful in all dealings with police and officials.
- Asking for Photos: Always ask for permission before taking a picture of someone.
Did You Know?
The musical genre of 'Kizomba,' a popular dance style that has spread around the world, originated in Angola in the 1980s. It blends traditional Angolan Semba music with French Caribbean Zouk.
Cool Angola Stats
- A Giant Sable Antelope: Angola is the only place in the world where the magnificent and critically endangered giant sable antelope can be found.
- Oil and Diamonds: The country is one of Africa's largest oil producers and also has rich diamond reserves.
- Kalandula Falls: At 105 meters high and 400 meters wide, the Kalandula Falls are one of the largest waterfalls in Africa by volume.
Recommended Age Group
Angola is only suitable for very experienced, resilient, and adventurous Adults who are prepared for challenging and expensive travel.
- Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended.
- Kids (3-12 years): Not recommended.
- Teens (13-19 years): Not recommended.
- Adults (20-64 years): Recommended only for seasoned adventure travelers with a high budget and a tolerance for difficult travel conditions.
- Seniors (65+ years): Not recommended.
Accessibility Level: Low
- There is virtually no accessibility infrastructure for tourists in Angola.
- The country's infrastructure is very undeveloped, and roads are in poor condition.
- There is no accessible public transport, and accessible hotels are almost non-existent.
- Travel is physically demanding and not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Address:
Angola, Africa
Find Nearby Accommodations
Basic Info
COUNTRY & Region
Angola,
Africa
ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL
Low
LOCAL CURRENCY
Angolan Kwanza (AOA)
Price Level
High
SAFETY LEVEL
Recommended Duration
• More than a week
Electricity
Electricity
220-240V,
50Hz
Plug Type
• Type C (Round pin)
Activities To Do In Angola
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Angola is during the cool, dry season.
- Dry Season (June to September): This is the most comfortable time to travel. The weather is cooler and there is little to no rain, making travel on unpaved roads more manageable.
- Wet Season (October to May): This period sees hot, humid weather and heavy rainfall, which can make many roads impassable. The north has a longer rainy season than the south.
Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.
SAFETY Level
Angola is a country where travelers must exercise a high degree of caution. The capital, Luanda, has a high rate of crime, and it is not safe to walk at night. Outside the capital, the risk of landmines still exists in remote, rural areas, so it is crucial to stay on well-traveled roads. Travel should be undertaken with a reputable local contact or guide who understands the local context and potential risks.
The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.
Spoken Languages
The official language is Portuguese.
Learn The Language
- Olá (oh-lah): Hello
- Obrigado / Obrigada (ob-ree-gah-doh / dah): Thank you (male / female)
- Sim / Não (seeng / nown): Yes / No
- Adeus (ah-de-oos): Goodbye
- Por favor (por fah-vor): Please
- Quanto custa? (kwan-toh koos-tah): How much is it?
- Desculpe (des-kool-peh): Excuse me
Money & Payments
Everything you need to know about money while traveling
LOCAL CURRENCY:
Angolan Kwanza (AOA)
Price Level:
High
Cards Vs. Cash
How Much Cash to Carry (on you)
Per person, per day – pocket cash for small purchases.
Local:
Angolan Kwanza (AOA)
≈ USD
Average Daily Costs (per person)
Full daily spend estimation (accomodation, food, transportation, attractions).
Travel Style | Angolan Kwanza (AOA) | ≈ USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
Budget | ||
Mid-range | ||
Comfort |
The Prices, Daily costs, and calculator results are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on season, booking timing, personal spending habits, and currency fluctuations. TravelingWiz cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between these estimates and your final trip expenses.
Best Value Tips
- Eat at local cantinas and street food stalls for a more affordable and authentic taste of Angolan cuisine.
- This is not a budget destination; the best value tip is to plan every detail of your trip meticulously with a local contact to avoid unexpected and exorbitant costs.
- Travel outside of the capital, Luanda, where costs for accommodation and food are significantly lower.
Pre-Order Tickets
Avoid disappointment when tickets sell out — and skip the long lines by booking online in advance. You’ll often save up to 20% too.
Save up to 20%
Travel Discounts & Coupons
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What To Pack
A valid visa and travel documents, A high budget, A Portuguese phrasebook, A rugged 4x4 vehicle
Related Travel Tips
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Food & Drink Highlights
Local Food Overview
Angolan cuisine is a rich and hearty blend of native African ingredients and strong Portuguese colonial influences. Staples include funge (a cassava or corn flour porridge), beans, rice, and fresh seafood on the coast. The flavors are often savory and complex, with ingredients like palm oil, garlic, and onion forming the base of many stews.
Must Try Dish
Feijão de Óleo de Palma (Palm Oil Beans): This is a deeply flavorful and essential Angolan dish that can be easily made vegetarian. It's a rich, slow-cooked stew of beans (often butter beans or black-eyed peas) cooked in a vibrant red palm oil sauce with onions, garlic, and often some vegetables. It is a savory, earthy, and incredibly comforting dish, typically served with funge or rice, and is a staple of Angolan home cooking.
Food Experiences
No food experience found
Step 1: Find the Perfect Accommodation
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Step 3: Let a Tour Guide Help
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Step 4: Rent a Car
Travel at your own pace by renting a car. Whether you’re exploring cities or embarking on a road trip, find reliable and convenient car rental options.
Step 5: Get Travel Insurance
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Step 6: Need a Visa?
Check visa requirements for your destination and apply quickly with trusted services. Simplify the process and ensure you’re ready to travel without delays.
FAQs
Is Angola safe to visit?
Angola has a complex security situation. While the civil war is over, the capital Luanda has a high rate of crime. It is essential to check government travel advisories and to travel with a reputable local operator who understands the security landscape. The risk of landmines still exists in remote, rural areas.
Is Angola expensive?
Yes, Angola is a very expensive country to visit, particularly the capital, Luanda, which is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world for expatriates. The lack of tourist infrastructure means that services like car hire and guides are very costly.
Do I need a visa for Angola?
Yes, almost all foreign nationals need a visa to enter Angola, and the application process must be completed in advance. Many nationalities can now apply for an e-visa, but it is essential to check the latest requirements.
What is the capital of Angola?
The capital and largest city of Angola is Luanda. It is a major port and economic center, known for its striking contrasts between modern, oil-funded development and widespread poverty.
What are the Kalandula Falls in Angola?
The Kalandula Falls (or Calandula Falls) are massive waterfalls located in the north of Angola. They are one of the largest waterfalls in Africa by volume and are a spectacular but difficult-to-reach natural wonder.
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