Ecuador Angola

Angola, officially known as the Republic of Angola, covers an area of approximately 1.25 million square kilometres, making it the seventh-largest country in Africa. It has a population of about 34 million people, with Luanda as its capital and largest city. Angola operates on West Africa Time (WAT), which is GMT+1.

The country is rich in natural resources, particularly oil and diamonds, and has made significant strides in development since the end of the civil war in 2002. With about 500 years of colonial rule and prolonged civil war, the country is beaming with optimism and courage in repositioning itself.

Angolan cuisine is a reflection of the country’s diversity and Portuguese influence, often featuring hearty stews, fresh seafood, and tropical flavours. National favourites include Calulu, a popular dish made with fish or meat, served with cassava leaves, beans, and palm oil; Muamba de Galinha, a chicken stew cooked with palm oil, garlic, and okra; Funje, a staple made from cassava flour and commonly served as a side to various dishes. In coastal areas, you will find an abundance of fresh seafood, such as lobster, prawns, and fish stews. Portuguese wines are widely available due to historical ties. The Namibe and Benguela provinces are becoming popular for wine production and rum distillery, respectively.  Angolans also enjoy local beers like Cuca and N’gola.

Angola’s geography is diverse and provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. The country is home to Kalandula Falls, one of Africa’s largest waterfalls, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails and picnic spots with spectacular views of the falls. Outside of Luanda, there is Quiçama National Park, where wildlife lovers can enjoy safari tours.  Angola’s Atlantic coastline is perfect for water sports; pristine beaches like Benguela and Mussulo Island are popular spots for swimming, diving, and deep-sea fishing. Adventure seekers can explore the vast Namib Desert in the southern part of the country, which extends into Angola from Namibia—hiking through the Tundavala Gap in the southern highlands rewards travellers with breathtaking views from the cliffs over the plains below.

The variation in Angola’s landscape is striking, from arid deserts to tropical rainforests. Kissama National Park is a key site for wildlife conservation, offering savannahs, baobab trees, elephants, zebras, and water buffalo. Iona National Park, the oldest in the country, is part of the Namib Desert and features unique desert flora and fauna, including desert-adapted elephants and oryx. The panoramic views from Tundavala Fissure’s cliff. The rainforest areas of Cabinda, Angola's northern exclave, are rich in biodiversity and home to primates, rare birds, and colourful butterflies. Angola’s numerous rivers, such as the Cuanza River, provide vital ecosystems and opportunities for riverboat tours, fishing, and exploring surrounding wetlands.

Angola's festivals are colourful and deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Carnival in Luanda is one of the most popular celebrations in Angola, held in February or March, featuring vibrant parades, samba-like music, and elaborate costumes that fill the capital's streets. Other notable events include. The Festivities of Our Lady of Muxima, a religious festival held annually in August, attracts thousands of pilgrims to the small town of Muxima, where a statue of the Virgin Mary is venerated. The Angola Independence Day, which is celebrated on November 11th, marks the country’s liberation from Portuguese colonial rule with public parades, concerts, and fireworks. Angolan music, particularly kizomba and semba, is central to many of these festivals and offers a lively way to engage with the country’s cultural vibrancy.

Travellers to Angola should take several health precautions to ensure a safe trip. It is recommended to have vaccinations for Yellow Fever as it is required for entry, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Polio. Malaria is prevalent throughout the country, so the use of mosquito repellent is essential.

The official currency is the Angolan Kwanza (AOA).

Angola uses a 220-volt power supply with a frequency of 50 Hz. The standard plug types are Type C and Type F.

Transportation in Angola can be challenging, especially outside of major cities. Taxis and private car hires are common in Luanda, though rates can be high. Minibuses candongueiros are inexpensive ways to travel short distances in urban areas, but they can be overcrowded and difficult to navigate for non-locals.

For those with a sense of adventure, renting a car is an option, though road conditions in rural areas can be poor, and driving can be risky due to unmarked roads and lack of infrastructure. For a faster way to travel to major cities, you can consider booking flights as it is the most convenient, especially for long-distance destinations. If you plan to explore Angola's more remote areas, consider hiring a local driver or guide who knows the region. Ferries along the rivers are another way to explore major islands and waterways.

Portuguese is the official language of Angola, and it is widely spoken in cities and towns. Many Angolans also speak one or more indigenous languages, including Kimbundu,Umbundu and Chokwe. While English is not commonly spoken outside of business or tourist sectors, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can greatly enhance your interactions with locals.

Hospitality and politeness are the hallmarks of the Angolan culture. Handshake is the most common form of greeting, if you are among locals, it is appropriate to greet the elders first, with a bow. Generally, Angolans strive to please people and can be very evasive, especially if responses are negative, so it is always good to ask for specifics and watch out for half statements when conversing.

• Wet Season (October to April): Angola experiences heavy rains during these months, particularly in the north. It is usually warm during this period, with temperatures ranging from 23C to 27C

• Dry Season (May to September): The dry season, also known as ‘Cacimbo,’ is the best time to visit for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing, especially in national parks like Quiçama. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, with clear skies and minimal rainfall.

Travel costs in Angola can vary depending on your itinerary. Budget travellers should expect to spend around $70-$120 per day, covering basic accommodations, public transport, paid activities and meals from local eateries. For mid-range travellers, daily costs might range from $150-$200 per day, which would include stays in comfortable hotels, guided tours, and dining at mid-range restaurants.

Luxury travellers can expect to spend upwards of $300 per day, enjoying upscale accommodation, private tours, and fine dining experiences. Prices for safaris and national park entry fees can range from $30-$50, depending on the park and services offered. It is advisable to book transportation and accommodation well in advance, as options in more remote areas can be limited.

• Kalandula Falls, one of Africa’s largest waterfalls, is located in Angola. It is surrounded by dense greenery and is perfect for you if you are a nature lover and photographer.

• Quiçama National Park is just a short drive from Luanda, you can get to see Angola’s wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and various bird species.

• Spend a day at the beach on  Mussulo Island and enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, or lounging by the ocean.

• Consider exploring the Iona National Park and get the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Namib desert, where you can see rare desert wildlife and interact with local communities like the Himba people.

• There can be power outages, be certain to come along with power banks and mobile chargers for your devices.