Angola
Portuguese is the language that you will have to speak during your trip to Angola! Former Portuguese colony, this country fascinates by the diversity of touristic and sports activities such as museums, beaches, fishing, hiking in parks and reserves, hunting, and wildlife. Your stay in Angola will be made of plenty discoveries, true contacts, and return to the roots. So, do not wait any longer, check with the embassy for formalities to complete and take off for a unique adventure!
Located in South West Africa, the Republic of Angola is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and is a neighbor with Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo (which are two different countries) in the North, Zambia in the East and Namibia in the South.
More than 15 million people live there and the capital, Luanda, which is near the sea. With 1600 km of coast, it is a large country with an area of more than one million km².
If you like African crafts (ivory, wood, metal, painting on canvas etc.), hunting and fishing traditions, lovely beaches, African dance and music, waterfalls, forests etc.. do not look for any more reasons to come. Just book your flight!!
Angola has something for everyone…. just ask! It’s up to you to decide what to you want to do during your trip and your dream will come true. The hospitality of the inhabitants, the beauty of the landscape, and the history of this country are waiting for you to offer what the country has best.
The Angolan climate is more than pleasant. But be careful, depending on whether you are on the coast, in the North or in the South the weather changes and the humidity too. With an average of 18 ° C in winter, temperatures can reach 35 ° C in summer. There is a dry season from May to September and a rainy season between October and April. The thermal amplitude between day and night is such that it is always better to take a sweater, a raincoat, and sneakers. After that, nothing will stop you from taking a little walk at night.
Since the war ended in 2002 (Angola had been at war for thirty years), it is possible to travel again in the country without fear. So, you can go for a safari in the parks to see lion, wildebeest, elephant, buffalo, cheetah or gazelle. If you prefer old architecture, Angola will also charm you with many churches and colonial fortresses. The history has mixed architectures of various influences, because the country has a long tradition of Portuguese occupation but has also Dutch presence (to a lesser extent).
Whether you come with family or friends, you will always be welcome in Angola. The country, especially the capital, offers hotels for all budgets. From the most luxurious room to the most Spartan comfort, it’s up to you to choose.
With its impressive waterfalls, tropical forest and savannah, beach and museums, Angola has many activities to make your stay unforgettable. Whatever your choice might be, Angolans will do everything to not disappoint you and make your stay remarkable. You will come back amazed and invite your loved ones to try the adventure.
There are still many tribes whose customs sometimes persist through time and generations. Some pierce ears, others paint for different occasions. Let yourself explained these ancestral rites, they deserve to be understood!
Art and culture in Angola
Angolan culture is a mix between Bantu culture and Portuguese culture. Besides, if Portuguese is the official language, Bantu languages such as Umbudu and Kimbudu are very used.
Before returning home, go to the craft markets, such as Futungo (one of the largest, south of Luanda) and get a wooden mask or an ivory sculpture. Ask the locals to tell you the story of the Capoiera and they will tell you that it is a ritual Bantu wedding dance Bantu exported to Brazil via slaves
What to visit in Angola
If you like wild animals, visit the animal reserves of Quiçama, Cameia or Porto Alexandre. Other natural sites such as the waterfalls of Calendula or the Duke of Braguance, or the sea caves of Morro de luda are waiting for your visit. For those who love history, the Museum of Slavery, the National Museum of Anthropology or the Archaeological Museum of Benguela should meet your expectations. Also, many churches like those of Sé or Notre Dame du Cap are classified as historical monuments. Finally, there are many forts to visit. To name a few: San Miguel in Luanda or Saint Pierre de Barre are very interesting
Gastronomic specialties in Angola
The cuisine is usually very spicy. Cassava and wheat are part of the basic diet of Angolans. One of the typical dishes is the corn assola it consists of pork fat, dried beans, and corn, all salted and spicy. There is also abóbora, or Angolan squash, that can be cooked in different ways. And then, among others, there is the “canja de galhina” or Angolan canja, chicken-based. You can also try the esparregados or fried cuttlefish