Things To Do
in Angola
Angola stretches along the Atlantic coast of southwestern Africa, from white-sand beaches near Luanda to arid plains in the south. Its economy has long been driven by oil and diamonds, but tourism is growing as cities renovate infrastructure and preserve wildlife. The country blends Afro-Portuguese influences with a diverse mosaic of ethnic groups, music, and art.
From verdant highlands and deserts to rugged coastlines, Angola offers dramatic scenery, vibrant cities, and welcoming people.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport in Luanda and settle into your hotel. Take some time to rest after your journey, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies. As you prepare for your adventure ahead, consider exploring the surroundings of your accommodation to get your first taste of Angola.
Begin your exploration at the vibrant Iron Palace (Palácio de Ferro), a unique architectural piece in downtown Luanda. Visit the nearby Museu Nacional de História Natural to understand the country's rich biodiversity and heritage. Stop for lunch at a local eatery where you can try traditional Angolan dishes like moqueca.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Marginal de Luanda, the picturesque waterfront promenade. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling grilled fish and funge while soaking in the ambient atmosphere. After dinner, consider visiting a nearby bar to enjoy live music and mingle with the locals.
After breakfast, take a guided tour of Luanda's historical sites, beginning with the renowned Fortress of São Miguel for stunning views of the city. Explore the vibrant local markets where craftsmen showcase their art and traditional textiles. Immerse yourself in the morning bustle and practice your Portuguese with the friendly vendors.
Visit the National Museum of Slavery to gain insight into Angola's complex history. Afterward, relax at the beautiful Ilha do Cabo beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the coastal scenery. Grab lunch at one of the beachside shacks famous for their fresh seafood.
As the evening approaches, head to the iconic Talatona Convention Center area for upscale dining options. Savor a carefully curated Angolan meal while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Post-dinner, you can unwind with a short walk in the lively surroundings or enjoy a drink at a chic rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-50 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within city | $4-10 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastlines and wildlife
- Vibrant city life in Luanda
- Strong cultural heritage and music
- Developing tourism infrastructure
- Limited public transport outside major cities
- Varied safety conditions; higher crime in some areas
- Reliance on cash in many places; bureaucratic processes can be slow
- Climate can be hot and humid in many areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica [lugar]?" - Where is [place]?
- "Não falo Português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Angola
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fortress with views over the bay, ideal for sunrise and city silhouettes.
Central square and surrounding avenues with colonial architecture and daily life reflections.
Long beaches and sandbanks with calm water; perfect for golden-hour beach photography.
Savanna and gallery forest areas offering elephant and wildlife shots, especially during morning light.
Food in Angola
Angola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chicken simmered in palm oil with okra, sweet potato or cassava, often served with funge (cassava porridge).
Must-Try!
A rich fish stew featuring local catches, tomatoes, peppers, and cassava flour dumplings.
Funge (cassava flour porridge) served as a staple side to many meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy urban market with fresh fish, fruits, and street snacks, ideal for observing daily life and tasting grilled seafood.
Casual stalls and small eateries offering grilled fish, moamba, and sides right by the Atlantic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with direct eye contact. In some groups, a kiss on the cheek may be common among friends; follow local cues.
Dress modestly in churches and rural areas; shoulders and knees covered in more formal settings.
Always use the right hand for giving or receiving objects.
Be reasonably punctual; scheduling can be flexible, especially in social contexts.
Ask permission before taking people’s photos in villages; respect private property.
Safety
Tipping in Angola
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is good; some places add a service charge. For taxis and street vendors, round up the fare.
Cash (local currency kwanza and some USD), especially for street vendors; many hotels and larger restaurants accept cards; some rural areas are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunshine, lower humidity, pleasant days, and ideal conditions for city touring and beach trips.
Hot and humid with periodic heavy rains; lush landscapes, but some roads can be muddy; plan indoor or water-sport days during showers.
Angola at Night
Hiking in Angola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided nature walks and wildlife viewing near Luanda, good for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Angola by plane.
Luanda's main international gateway with connections to Portugal, other African capitals, and regional destinations.
Gateway for the southern Namibe region and access to the Namib Desert coast.
Benguela region airport serving domestic flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of Angola’s largest ethnic groups, concentrated in the central highlands.
Predominant in the capital region and northern provinces.
Northern coastal group along the Congo River basin.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; major clubs and local matches draw large crowds.
Growing popularity with local leagues and indoor arenas.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Indicate vegetarian-friendly dishes like bean-based stews or vegetables cooked with olive oil; ask for no peixe caldo and request dende-free prep if needed; many places can adapt with rice, vegetables, and beans.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Angola.