Things To Do
in Belas
Belas is a municipality located in the Luanda province of Angola. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and upscale residential areas. Belas is also home to the Kissama National Park, where visitors can observe wildlife like elephants, giraffes, and antelopes.
The area is popular among tourists and expatriates looking for a peaceful retreat close to the bustling city of Luanda.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpa" - Sorry
- "Como está?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Marginal de Luanda for a refreshing walk along the coastline. Enjoy the sea breeze while soaking up the sun and watching the fishermen at work.
Head to the National Museum of Slavery to learn about Angola's history. This insightful visit provides a deeper understanding of the country's past and culture.
Dine at a local restaurant to savor traditional Angolan dishes. Experience the vibrant nightlife in Luanda by visiting a nearby bar or live music venue.
Drive to Cabo Ledo early in the morning for a peaceful beach day. Immerse yourself in the stunning ocean views and golden sands.
Engage in water sports like surfing or snorkeling for a thrilling afternoon. Alternatively, simply relax on the beach with a good book and enjoy the sun.
Watch the sunset over the ocean, creating a picturesque moment. Enjoy a beachfront BBQ dinner with freshly caught seafood for a delicious end to the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Growing economy with opportunities in sectors like agriculture and mining.
- Warm climate and tropical scenery.
- Strong community ties and local traditions.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities in some areas.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment in certain regions.
- Political instability and issues with governance.
- Access to education may be uneven.
- Environmental challenges such as deforestation and pollution.
Best Activities in Belas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a hike to the summit of Mount Belas and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the diverse bird species at Belas Lakes and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Relax and have a picnic near the stunning Belas Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Belas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Belas
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful natural landscapes and a chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.
Famous for its lunar-like landscapes and stunning sunset views.
Historic site with panoramic views of Belas and its surroundings.
Food in Belas
Belas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Angolan dish made with chicken, palm oil, garlic, okra, and spices. It is usually served with funge, a starchy side dish made from cassava.
Must-Try!
A stew typically prepared with fish or dried shrimp, leafy greens, tomatoes, and onions. It's a popular and hearty dish in Angolan cuisine.
A spicy grilled fish dish, often marinated with a blend of local spices and served with rice or cassava.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Belas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and a variety of street food such as grilled meats, fried fish, and traditional snacks like pastéis de bacalhau (codfish fritters).
This lively market is a great spot to sample local street food delicacies like matapa (cassava leaves stew), grilled corn, and various grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Belas, it is important to greet people with respect, using appropriate titles and handshakes. Addressing elders and authority figures with proper respect is highly valued.
Respect for personal space is important in Belas. It's advisable to maintain a comfortable distance and avoid intrusive gestures or overly familiar behavior.
When dining in Belas, it is polite to accept food and drinks offered, and it is customary to wait for the eldest or most senior person to begin eating before starting your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Belas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Belas
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belas, Angola, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10% service charge may be included in the bill. If not, a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Belas, Angola. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available in the area for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Belas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Belas, Angola, with clear skies and warmer temperatures. Wildlife viewing is great during this time, and it's perfect for outdoor activities.
Expect heavy rainfall during this season. The landscape is lush and green, making it a good time for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Belas at Night
Hiking in Belas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park near Belas that features a variety of trails through diverse ecosystems, including savannahs and woodlands, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Known for its stunning landscapes and panoramic views, the Serra da Leba offers several hiking routes that vary in difficulty, suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.
Located a bit further from Belas, the Malanje region features numerous hills and natural formations, providing access to various hiking trails amidst lush vegetation and waterfalls.
Aiports
How to reach Belas by plane.
Located in Luanda, this is the main international airport serving Angola and is approximately 439 km from Belas.
Situated in Lubango, this airport serves domestic and international flights and is around 887 km from Belas.
Located in Catumbela near Benguela, this airport offers international services and is approximately 555 km from Belas.
An airport serving Malanje, which provides limited international connections and is about 337 km from Belas.
Located in Saurimo, this airport serves domestic flights and has limited international services, approximately 721 km from Belas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Angola, primarily found in the central highland region, including areas around Belas.
The second largest ethnic group, mainly residing in the Luanda region, including parts of Belas.
An ethnic group primarily located in the northern part of Angola and the Congo region, with a presence in Belas.
An ethnic group known for their agricultural and hunting practices, found in areas to the east of Belas.
A smaller ethnic group found in central Angola, including some areas around Belas.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups and communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Belas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Belas and across Angola, with a passionate following and local leagues.
Basketball has gained popularity in Belas, with many young people playing at schools and in local communities.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and recreational areas, with both indoor and beach variations being popular.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular among schools and during national sporting events.
Handball is gaining traction in Belas, particularly in educational institutions and local tournaments.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric, many local eateries offer vegetable-based dishes such as feijão tropeiro (beans with cassava flour) or xerem de piripiri (spicy cracked corn). Look for restaurants with a 'vegetariano' or 'vegano' menu section.
Rice-based dishes like arroz de marisco (seafood rice) or grilled fish with steamed vegetables can be good gluten-free choices. Communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a safe dining experience.