Angola Travel Information

Angola is a country located in Southern Africa that offers a wide variety of experiences for visitors. From stunning natural landscapes and wildlife to vibrant cities and unique cultural experiences, Angola has something to offer for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do when visiting Angola:

1. Explore the capital city of Luanda

Luanda is the capital and largest city of Angola, and it offers a fascinating mix of old and new. Visitors can explore the historic Baixa neighborhood, which features colonial-era architecture and a bustling market, or take in the modern skyline from the top of the Fortaleza de São Miguel.

2. Visit the Kalandula Falls

The Kalandula Falls is one of Angola's most famous natural attractions. The falls, which are located near the town of Kalandula, are over 100 meters high and offer breathtaking views.

3. See the wildlife of Kissama National Park

Kissama National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. Visitors can take a safari tour to see the animals in their natural habitat.

4. Visit the Mupa National Park

Mupa National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a wide variety of bird species and other wildlife. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the animals and learn about the park's conservation efforts.

5. Explore the Iona National Park

Iona National Park is a remote wilderness area that is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and antelopes. Visitors can take a guided safari tour to see the animals and learn about the park's conservation efforts.

6. Visit the Tchitundo-Hulo rock paintings

The Tchitundo-Hulo rock paintings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feature over 4,000 rock paintings that date back over 5,000 years. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the paintings and learn about their significance.

7. Visit the Fortress of São Miguel

The Fortress of São Miguel is a 16th-century fort that offers stunning views of the city of Luanda. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the fort's history and see the exhibits inside.

8. See the Luanda Cathedral

The Luanda Cathedral is a beautiful colonial-era church that features a mix of architectural styles. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the church's history and see the exhibits inside.

9. Visit the Museum of the Armed Forces

The Museum of the Armed Forces is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Angola's struggle for independence. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the country's history and see the exhibits inside.

10. Take a boat tour of the Ilha do Mussulo

The Ilha do Mussulo is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Luanda. Visitors can take a boat tour of the island to see the beaches, the lighthouse and learn about the local culture.

With so many things to see and do, Angola is a great destination for those looking for an authentic and exciting travel experience. It offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that will appeal to nature lovers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts alike.

Climate

Angola has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season typically lasts from October to April, and the dry season lasts from May to September. During the rainy season, temperatures are generally hotter, and there is a higher chance of thunderstorms and flooding. During the dry season, temperatures are generally cooler, and there is less chance of rainfall.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Angola depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to avoid the heat and humidity of the rainy season, the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September. This is also the best time to see wildlife as the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals.

If you want to experience the culture and festivals that take place during the rainy season, then the best time to visit is from October to April. The rain also makes the country more green and lush, which is great for outdoor activities. Additionally, the fishing is also better in the rainy season.

Keep in Mind

It is important to keep in mind that Angola is a large country, and the climate can vary depending on the region you are visiting. Additionally, temperatures can be quite high year-round, so it's a good idea to pack light, breathable clothing and bring sunscreen.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

There are several international hotel chains in Angola, such as TAAG Hotel and Talatona Convention Hotel in Luanda, which offer high-end accommodation for travelers. There are also a number of smaller, locally-owned hotels and guesthouses that offer more budget-friendly options.

Lodges and Tented Camps

For a more unique and authentic experience, visitors can stay in lodges and tented camps located in Angola's national parks and game reserves. These options offer the opportunity to see wildlife and nature up close while also providing comfortable accommodation.

Homestays

For a truly immersive experience, visitors can stay with local families in Angola through homestays. These provide an opportunity to learn about the culture and customs of the people of Angola, and experience the local way of life.

Keep in Mind

It is important to keep in mind that Angola is a country that is still recovering from a long civil war and that the infrastructure is not fully developed. Many areas of the country are not easily accessible and may be difficult to travel to. Additionally, accommodation options may be limited, especially in rural areas. It is always recommended to check availability and book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Air Travel

The main international airport in Angola is Quatro de Fevereiro Airport in Luanda. There are several airlines that operate flights to and from Angola, including Angola Airlines, TAAG Angola Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines. Domestic flights are also available to other major cities in Angola, such as Huambo, Lubango, and Benguela.

Train

There is a railway network in Angola that connects major cities such as Luanda, Huambo, and Lubango. It is not a very fast or efficient way to travel, but it can be a good option for budget travelers.

Bus

Buses are the most common form of transportation in Angola and they connect most cities and towns. The bus service can be slow and uncomfortable, but it is also the most affordable option.

Car Rental

Car rental is available in Angola, but it can be difficult to find and may be expensive. Additionally, many roads in Angola are in poor condition and not well-maintained, so it is important to be cautious when driving.

Keep in Mind

It is important to keep in mind that the transportation options in Angola are limited and not always reliable. It is also important to be aware that travel in Angola can be dangerous due to the poor infrastructure, lack of road signs, and the potential for crime. It is always recommended to check the current situation and hire a reliable guide or driver if you decide to travel on your own.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.