Things To Do
in Tchitado
Tchitado is a small, sun-drenched coastal town in southern Angola, perched near the Atlantic. The town sits at approximately -17.3167° S, 13.9167° E, offering a mix of fishing culture, modest colonial architecture, and rugged sea cliffs. Life here revolves around seafood markets, local cafés, and close-knit neighborhoods where hospitality runs deep.
Expect warm days, dusty streets, and dramatic sunsets over the horizon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Tchitado airport and take in the vibrant sights that greet you. Get settled in your accommodation and enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café. As you sip on freshly brewed coffee, familiarize yourself with the surrounding area and its rich culture.
Explore the heart of Tchitado by visiting the local market, where you can find handmade crafts and taste the local cuisine. Engage with the friendly vendors who showcase their unique offerings, allowing you to experience the warm hospitality of the Angolan people. Don't forget to capture the colorful scenes with your camera.
After a day of exploration, unwind at a local restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Angolan dishes. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk around the city to appreciate the vibrant nightlife. End your evening at a lively bar, enjoying music and mingling with locals.
On your third day, venture into the hills surrounding Tchitado for an invigorating hike. The cool morning air and stunning views of the landscape will invigorate your spirit. Bring along a local guide who can share fascinating stories about the region's history and ecology.
Arrive at a picturesque viewpoint, perfect for a picnic lunch with panoramic views of the valley. Capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera and enjoy the serenity of nature. After lunch, visit nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip.
As twilight descends, return to Tchitado and indulge in dinner at a local eatery. The combination of rich flavors in Angolan cuisine will leave your palate delighted. Experience the warmth of the community as you reflect on your day with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-6 |
| 🧂Market groceries (cassava, fish, fruit) | $1-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| ☕Coffee or snack at cafe | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming communities and a relaxed pace of life
- Access to uncrowded beaches and coastlines
- Limited healthcare outside urban centers
- Infrastructure can be basic and uneven
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Não falo Português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
- "Você pode falar mais devagar?" - Can you speak more slowly?
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Tchitado
Visit one of these nice places.
Long coastline with colorful fishing boats at sunrise and sunset.
Vibrant alleyways, textiles, and market activity that make compelling street photography.
A small colonial-era fort with views over the harbor and town.
A cliff-top platform near the lighthouse offering sweeping sea views.
Desert-like dunes meeting the ocean, ideal for silhouettes and wide landscapes.
Food in Tchitado
Tchitado Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple stew made with fish or meat, vegetables, okra, and palm oil, commonly served with funge (mashed cassava flour).
Must-Try!
A palm-oil-based chicken stew often served with rice or funge.
Cassava flour meal served with fried fish and pepper sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can taste fried fish, cassava chips, fruit, and local peanuts.
Grilled seafood skewers and fried plantains along the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake with eye contact; a few words of Portuguese such as 'bom dia' go a long way.
Respectful clothing in town and places of worship; cover shoulders and knees in more conservative areas.
Ask for permission in homes or in sensitive areas; avoid taking photos of people without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Tchitado
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips of 5-10% in restaurants are appreciated; small tips for guides and taxi drivers are common.
Cash (local and USD) is widely accepted; cards are increasingly accepted in larger venues; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
October to February is hot and dry with strong coastal winds; days are sunny, ideal for beachgoers and photography at golden hour.
June to August brings cooler nights and milder days; humidity is lower but fog can roll in along the coast; occasional rain is possible in higher elevations.
Tchitado at Night
Hiking in Tchitado
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic escarpment trails with sea views; best experienced with a local guide.
Walks across the Namibe desert dunes near the coast; bring water and sun protection.
Airports
How to reach Tchitado by plane.
Regional airport near the coast with flights to Luanda and other provincial centers.
Key hub in southern Angola with connections to Luanda and other cities.
Luanda’s main international gateway; transfer options to the south.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Afro-Angolan communities with diverse groups such as Ovimbundu and Ambundu; coastal communities have their own traditions and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect impromptu games on beaches and in town squares.
Common in schools and city courts; local tournaments occasionally organized.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tchitado.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based dishes like beans, vegetables, cassava, and rice; communicate 'Não como carne' or 'Sou vegetariano(a)'; many places can tailor dishes if you ask.