Africa
Angola
Big, expensive and rarely visited: Luanda's coast, Kalandula Falls, Namibe desert and Lubango's highlands. Few tourist services, Portuguese-only, and prices are among Africa's highest, but the country is opening up.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa99 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyAOAUS$1 ≈ Kz927.38Details
- Price level35%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English1/5Rare
- PlugsType C, F220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency113Police 113 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 115
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled water; tap water is unsafe in most places.Details
- LGBTQ+LegalDecriminalised in 2021 and sexual-orientation discrimination is banned in law, but attitudes are conservative and open displays risk hostility.Details
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences are accepted briefly but an IDP plus Portuguese translation is wise; police checkpoints are common, and many roads need a 4x4.
Where to go in Angola
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LuandaCapital city | 3/5 | $1,510–2,700 | May–Sep | 17/100 |
When to visit Angola
The cooler dry season (cacimbo), May-September, is the best time for most regions. November-April is hot and rainy, with the coast humid.
Good to know
Entry
- Since 2023 Angola waives tourist visas for 30 days for dozens of nationalities, including the EU, UK and US; check the eligible list before travelling.
- Others apply for an e-visa or a consular visa before travel; business and work stays need a visa in advance.
- Passport must be valid six months with two blank pages; cash over US$5,000 must be declared.
- A yellow fever certificate is required on arrival from a risk country and for onward travel, for example to South Africa.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing government buildings, military sites and airports is prohibited
- Carry a copy of your passport; police can ask for ID at any time
Etiquette
- Greet people individually with a handshake before talking
- Learn a few Portuguese phrases; English is rare
- Dress smartly in Luanda; beachwear belongs on the beach
- Ask before taking photographs of people
Tipping
Not required; 10% is common in restaurants if no service charge is added.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.