Africa · Middle Africa

Angola

Republic of Angola

Flag of Angola
Local Time
--:--:--
UTC+01:00
🏛️ Capital
Luanda
👥 Population
36,170,961
📐 Area
1,246,700 km²
💱 Currency
Angolan kwanza (Kz)
🗣️ Languages
Portuguese
📞 Calling Code
+244
🕐 Time Zones
UTC+01:00
🌐 Region
Africa / Middle Africa

About Angola

Angola is a country of staggering natural beauty and extraordinary cultural depth that is only now beginning to emerge on the international travel radar after decades of civil conflict. Stretching along Africa's Atlantic coast with the Congo Basin rainforest to the north and the Namib Desert reaching its northern fingers into the south, Angola's landscapes encompass some of the most dramatic and diverse scenery on the continent. The capital Luanda, one of Africa's most expensive and cosmopolitan cities, buzzes with an infectious energy fuelled by oil wealth, an ambitious rebuilding programme, and a vibrant music scene that has produced kuduro, one of Africa's most influential dance music genres.

Beyond Luanda, Angola reveals landscapes of breathtaking variety. The Tundavala Fissure near Lubango offers vertiginous cliff views over the Namib escarpment. The Bicuar and Quiçama national parks are being painstakingly restocked after the devastating losses of the civil war era. The Kissama National Park, just two hours from Luanda, has become a symbol of conservation hope — elephants, giant sable antelope, and other wildlife are gradually returning through ambitious rewilding initiatives. In the southern highlands, the ancient Muila people maintain striking traditional dress and customs that have survived centuries of change.

Angola is not yet an easy destination, and infrastructure outside the major cities can be challenging. But for the adventurous traveller willing to engage with a country in the midst of a genuine renaissance, Angola offers the rare thrill of experiencing Africa's next great travel discovery before the crowds arrive. The warmth of Angolan hospitality, the richness of its art and music, and the magnificence of its untouched landscapes are rewards well worth the effort of getting here.

History & Background

Angola's recorded history stretches back to the powerful Kingdom of Kongo, which dominated the northern reaches of present-day Angola from the 14th century and developed sophisticated administrative, diplomatic, and artistic traditions long before European contact. Portuguese navigator Diogo Cão arrived at the mouth of the Congo River in 1483, beginning a relationship that would prove catastrophic for the local population. Angola became the largest source of enslaved Africans transported to the Americas — an estimated 4–5 million people were taken from Angolan ports over four centuries, a wound that still shapes the country's relationship with its past.

Portugal maintained Angola as a colony until one of the 20th century's most abrupt decolonisations — independence came on November 11, 1975, almost immediately plunging the country into a devastating civil war between the MPLA government (backed by Cuba and the Soviet Union) and UNITA rebels (backed by the US and South Africa). This conflict lasted 27 years, killing an estimated 500,000 people, displacing millions more, and leaving the country littered with landmines. The death of UNITA leader Jonas Savimbi in 2002 finally ended hostilities, and Angola has since undergone a remarkable if uneven reconstruction, leveraging its vast oil and diamond resources to rebuild its cities and institutions.

Culture & People

Angolan culture is a vibrant synthesis of Bantu African traditions and centuries of Portuguese colonial influence, producing a society of remarkable creativity and resilience. Portuguese is the official language, but over forty Bantu languages — including Kimbundu, Kikongo, and Umbundu — are spoken across the country, each carrying rich oral traditions, proverbs, and music. The civil war that lasted from 1975 to 2002 profoundly shaped the national psyche, and the arts have been central to healing and reconstruction — Angola's literature, visual art, and music reflect both trauma and an irrepressible vitality.

Music is perhaps Angola's greatest cultural export. Semba, the traditional predecessor to Brazilian samba (the connection is direct and historical), remains a beloved art form, while kuduro — a frenetic electronic dance music born in Luanda's musseques (informal settlements) in the 1980s — has spread globally. Carnival in Luanda, held in February, is one of Africa's most spectacular, rivalling Rio in its scale and ambition. Traditional crafts including basket weaving, woodcarving, and the intricate bead jewellery of the Muila women of the southern highlands represent living artistic traditions that connect contemporary Angolans to their pre-colonial past.

Food & Cuisine

Angolan cuisine reflects the country's Portuguese colonial history and the rich agricultural traditions of its Bantu peoples, producing a cooking style that is bold, satisfying, and deeply flavourful. Muamba de galinha — chicken slow-cooked in a rich palm oil sauce with garlic, tomatoes, chilli, and okra — is considered the national dish, a wonderfully aromatic stew that embodies the Portuguese-African fusion at the heart of Angolan cooking. Calulu, a dried fish and vegetable stew cooked in palm oil with sweet potato leaves, is another staple that has nourished Angolans across generations and social classes.

Seafood is excellent given Angola's extensive Atlantic coastline — grilled tiger prawns, fish stews, and fresh lobster are highlights along the coast and in Luanda's better restaurants. Funje, a smooth cassava porridge similar to ugali or sadza, is the universal accompaniment to meat and fish dishes. Ginguba (peanuts) appear in sauces, snacks, and street food across the country. Portuguese influence persists strongly in the prevalence of pastéis de nata (custard tarts), good espresso, and the quality of Angolan beer — Cuca, Eka, and N'Gola lager are refreshing local brews that pair perfectly with a plate of piri-piri prawns.

Top Attractions

  • Kalandula Falls — One of Africa's largest waterfalls by volume, plunging 105 metres over a 400-metre wide horseshoe of red rock in a remote forested setting of extraordinary beauty.
  • Kissama National Park — Angola's flagship wildlife reserve, two hours south of Luanda, where ambitious rewilding has returned elephants, sable antelope, and zebra to the savanna.
  • Tundavala Fissure — A dramatic escarpment near Lubango offering vertiginous views across the Namib Desert plateau, one of Africa's most spectacular viewpoints.
  • Luanda Marginal — The sweeping seafront promenade of the capital, lined with palms, cafes, and the restored colonial buildings of the Ilha de Luanda sandbar.
  • Pungo Andongo — Massive black granite inselbergs rising from the savanna, steeped in Mbundu legend and featuring the 'footprints of Queen Njinga,' a revered national symbol.
  • Mussulo Peninsula — A palm-fringed sandbar near Luanda with calm lagoon beaches, seafood restaurants, and weekend escape vibes popular with Luanda residents.

Practical Travel Tips

  • A visa is required for most nationalities — apply well in advance and ensure your passport has at least six months' validity; yellow fever vaccination proof is mandatory for entry.
  • Luanda is one of Africa's most expensive cities; budget carefully and carry a mix of US dollars (widely accepted) and Angolan kwanza (AOA) for markets and local services.
  • Road conditions outside major cities can be very poor; hiring a local driver or joining an organised tour is strongly recommended for exploring the interior.
  • Photography requires sensitivity — avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, and airports; always ask permission before photographing people.
  • Malaria is endemic in Angola; take prophylaxis, use insect repellent, and sleep under a treated mosquito net, especially in rural areas.
  • Register with your embassy upon arrival and monitor FCO/State Department travel advisories — some areas may have specific safety considerations.
  • English is not widely spoken outside tourist-facing businesses and hotels; a working knowledge of Portuguese is a significant practical advantage.

Visa Overview

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Angola, which must be obtained before arrival from an Angolan embassy or, in some cases, as an e-visa. Yellow fever vaccination certification is compulsory for all visitors. Visa applications typically require supporting documents including hotel confirmations, an itinerary, and a letter of invitation or purpose of visit. Processing times and requirements vary; apply well in advance. Some nationalities benefit from visa-on-arrival or simplified procedures — always verify current requirements through the official Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your embassy.

Getting Around

Luanda's Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport connects to major African hubs, Lisbon, Dubai, and increasingly other destinations. Domestic flights via TAAG Angola Airlines and other carriers reach Lubango, Huambo, Cabinda, and other key cities. Road conditions vary dramatically — major highways have improved, but many secondary routes remain poor and require 4WD vehicles. Candongueiros (shared minibuses) are the primary local transport in cities but can be crowded. Hiring a private driver is the most practical option for visitors exploring beyond Luanda. Car rental is available but driving independently outside the capital is not recommended for first-time visitors.

Safety Notes

Luanda and the major provincial cities are generally manageable for travellers who take standard precautions. Petty crime, including bag snatching and theft, occurs in busy urban areas — avoid displaying expensive equipment and use reputable taxis or hotel cars rather than hailing vehicles on the street. The Cabinda enclave requires additional care and current travel advice should be checked. Landmines remain a legacy risk in some rural areas far from established tourist routes — never stray from marked paths in the countryside and follow local guidance. Comprehensive travel and medical evacuation insurance is essential.

Live Exchange Rates

Current exchange rates for currencies used in Angola.

Angolan kwanza (AOA) Kz
Updated: 2026-10-06
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 0.010326
AAVE 0.000006
ADA 0.004051
AED 0.004009
AFN 0.070535
AKT 0.001427
ALGO 0.008500
ALL 0.089545
AMD 0.394947
AMP 1.702523
ANG 0.001963
APE 0.006814
APT 0.001330
AR 0.000242
ARB 0.005355
ARS 1.659280
ATOM 0.000600
ATS 0.013395
AUD 0.001567
AVAX 0.000096
AWG 0.001954
AXS 0.000834
AZM 9.279474
AZN 0.001856
BAKE 4.253217
BAM 0.001904
BAT 0.010349
BBD 0.002183
BCH 0.000003
BDT 0.134201
BEF 0.039268
BGN 0.001904
BHD 0.000410
BIF 3.279891
BMD 0.001092
BNB 0.000001
BND 0.001397
BOB 0.013096
BRL 0.005457
BSD 0.001092
BSV 0.000055
BSW 2.652960
BTC 0.000000
BTCB 0.015625
BTG 0.001655
BTN 0.105258
BTT 2,936.471394
BUSD 0.001092
BWP 0.015025
BYN 0.003330
BYR 21.400044
BZD 0.002195
CAD 0.001558
CAKE 0.000446
CDF 2.522886
CELO 0.010497
CFX 0.019896
CHF 0.000908
CHZ 0.065263
CLP 1.062244
CNH 0.007318
CNY 0.007320
COMP 0.000045
COP 3.491916
CRC 0.499542
CRO 0.016076
CRV 0.002961
CSPR 0.427978
CUC 0.001092
CUP 0.026150
CVE 0.107340
CVX 0.000493
CYP 0.000570
CZK 0.023814
DAI 0.001092
DASH 0.000019
DCR 0.000059
DEM 0.001904
DFI 1.194472
DJF 0.194212
DKK 0.007275
DOGE 0.011514
DOP 0.065426
DOT 0.000882
DYDX 0.007472
DZD 0.146752
EEK 0.015231
EGLD 0.000244
EGP 0.057235
ENJ 0.032977
EOS 0.010743
ERN 0.016375
ESP 0.161965
ETB 0.177576
ETC 0.000123
ETH 0.000000
EUR 0.000973
EURC 0.000973
FEI 0.001092
FIL 0.000915
FIM 0.005788
FJD 0.002456
FKP 0.000826
FLOW 0.034504
FLR 0.151453
FRAX 0.001103
FRF 0.006385
FTT 0.004226
GALA 0.450583
GBP 0.000826
GEL 0.002833
GGP 0.000826
GHC 128.345994
GHS 0.012835
GIP 0.000826
GMD 0.080797
GMX 0.000124
GNF 9.598304
GNO 0.000009
GRD 0.331696
GRT 0.037493
GT 0.000098
GTQ 0.008331
GUSD 0.001094
GYD 0.227889
HBAR 0.010844
HKD 0.008567
HNL 0.029272
HNT 0.002104
HOT 2.383808
HRK 0.007334
HT 0.029931
HTG 0.142653
HUF 0.357592
ICP 0.000313
IDR 19.557851
IEP 0.000767
ILS 0.003339
IMP 0.000826
IMX 0.005954
INJ 0.000144
INR 0.105258
IQD 1.427206
IRR 1,963.429475
ISK 0.133293
ITL 1.884822
JEP 0.000826
JMD 0.172755
JOD 0.000774
JPY 0.172608
KAS 0.025447
KAVA 0.015747
KCS 0.000144
KDA 0.111817
KES 0.141711
KGS 0.095478
KHR 4.422541
KLAY 0.026212
KMF 0.478896
KNC 0.007622
KPW 0.982655
KRW 1.465552
KSM 0.000213
KWD 0.000337
KYD 0.000908
KZT 0.497022
LAK 24.496091
LBP 98.451267
LDO 0.002383
LEO 0.000123
LINK 0.000079
LKR 0.360074
LRC 0.106332
LRD 0.186295
LSL 0.018175
LTC 0.000016
LTL 0.003361
LUF 0.039268
LUNA 0.021378
LUNC 20.646273
LVL 0.000684
LYD 0.007004
MAD 0.010896
MANA 0.010557
MBX 0.036912
MDL 0.019565
MGA 4.834478
MGF 24.172389
MINA 0.008103
MKD 0.059892
MKR 0.000001
MMK 2.291644
MNT 3.924810
MOP 0.008824
MRO 0.437079
MRU 0.043708
MTL 0.000418
MUR 0.051748
MVR 0.016877
MWK 1.889526
MXN 0.019733
MXV 0.002243
MYR 0.004460
MZM 69.681618
MZN 0.069682
NAD 0.018175
NEAR 0.000209
NEO 0.000431
NEXO 0.001284
NFT 4,574.897029
NGN 1.443260
NIO 0.040134
NLG 0.002145
NOK 0.010478
NPR 0.168492
NZD 0.001950
OKB 0.000008
OMR 0.000420
ONE 0.007454
OP 0.008121
ORDI 0.000240
PAB 0.001092
PAXG 0.000000
PEN 0.003759
PEPE 252.423118
PGK 0.004918
PHP 0.068609
PI 0.012506
PKR 0.301852
PLN 0.004264
POL 0.009983
PTE 0.195155
PYG 6.377629
QAR 0.003974
QNT 0.000004
QTUM 0.001114
ROL 52.033189
RON 0.005203
RPL 0.000571
RSD 0.114334
RUB 0.092619
RUNE 0.001406
RVN 0.444947
RWF 1.609116
SAND 0.016601
SAR 0.004094
SBD 0.008808
SCR 0.015462
SDD 65.520996
SDG 0.655210
SEK 0.010966
SGD 0.001397
SHIB 186.493661
SHP 0.000826
SIT 0.233273
SKK 0.029326
SLE 0.025169
SLL 25.168745
SNX 0.004360
SOL 0.000009
SOS 0.621118
SPL 0.000182
SRD 0.041163
SRG 41.162986
SSP 6.251699
STD 24.018026
STN 0.024018
STX 0.002913
SUI 0.000915
SVC 0.009552
SYP 14.196091
SZL 0.018175
THB 0.036746
THETA 0.004715
TJS 0.010048
TMM 19.155727
TMT 0.003831
TND 0.003267
TOP 0.002629
TRL 53,684.399579
TRX 0.003249
TRY 0.053684
TTD 0.007392
TUSD 0.001093
TVD 0.001567
TWD 0.034696
TWT 0.001912
TZS 2.880296
UAH 0.049169
UGX 4.388744
UNI 0.000123
USD 0.001092
USDC 0.001092
USDD 0.001092
USDP 0.001098
USDT 0.001092
UYU 0.044100
UZS 12.841640
VAL 1.884822
VEB 95,055,948.283281
VED 0.950559
VEF 95,055.948283
VES 0.950559
VET 0.125099
VND 28.378829
VUV 0.131234
WAVES 0.003659
WEMIX 0.005701
WOO 0.079753
WST 0.003038
XAF 0.638528
XAG 0.000018
XAU 0.000000
XAUT 0.000000
XBT 0.000000
XCD 0.002955
XCG 0.001963
XCH 0.000698
XDC 0.032486
XDR 0.000807
XEC 136.898867
XEM 1.738830
XLM 0.005058
XMR 0.000002
XOF 0.638528
XPD 0.000001
XPF 0.116161
XPT 0.000001
XRP 0.000727
XTZ 0.003267
YER 0.257854
ZAR 0.018175
ZEC 0.000001
ZIL 0.299167
ZMK 21.583053
ZMW 0.021583
ZWD 0.395082
ZWG 0.029226
ZWL 73.028099

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Cities in Angola 183
Browse all cities and towns
Alto Dondo Alto Hama Ambriz Andulo Bailundo Balombo Bembe Benguela Bibala Bocoio Buco-Zau Buela Bundas Bungo Caála Cabinda Cachoeira Caconda Cacongo Cacuaco Cacula Caculama Cacuso Cadá Cáfu Cafunfo Cahama Calai Calandala Calandula Calonda Calucinga Calulo Caluquembe Camabatela Camabatela Camacupa Camanongue Camaxilo Cambandua Cambundi Catembo Cangamba Cangandala Cangola Cangundo Canzar Cassongue Catabola Catchiungo Catete Catumbela Catumbela Cautoto Caxito Cazaje Cazombo CENTRALIDADE DO QUIBAÚLA (Sumbe) Chibia Chicala Chinguar Chipindo Chissamba Chongoroi Cidade do Kilamba Cuangar Cuango Cubal Cuchi Cucumbi Cuemba Cuilo Cuima Cuimba Cuíto Cuito Cuanavale Culo Cunda-dia-Baze Cunhinga Cusse Cutato Cuvango Damba Dirico Dombe Grande Dondo Dundo Ecunha Gabela Gambos-Chiange Ganda Golungo Alto Hoque Huambo Huíla Humpata Iongo Jamba Jamba Kuito Léua Lobito Lombe Longonjo Lóvua Luacano Luanda Luando Luao Luau Lubango Lucala Lucapa Lucira Luena Lumeje Lumua Luxilo M'banza Congo M'banza-Kongo Malanje Maquela do Zombo Matala Mavinga Mbanza Lucala Mecumba Menongue Menongue Moçâmedes Mucussuege Mumbué Mungo Munhango Mussende Muxaluando N'dalatando N'zeto Namibe Nana Candundo Negage Nóqui Nova Esperança Nzagi Nzeto Ondjiva Panguila Porto Amboim Porto Quipiri Praia Santo Antônio Puri Quibala Quibaxe Quibocolo Quilenda Quilengues Quimbele Quinzala Quipungo Quissaca Quitapa Quitexe Quituia Salucunda Sanza Pombo Sassalemba Saurimo Sautar Seles Songo Soyo Sumbe Tempué Tomboco Tômbua Uemita Uíge Ukuma Virei Waku Kungo Xá-Muteba Xangongo Xassengue Xinge Zambia

Visa Requirements

Check what visa a citizen of Angola needs to enter any country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Angola?
The capital of Angola is Luanda.
What currency does Angola use?
Angola uses the Angolan kwanza (Kz) as its official currency.
What language is spoken in Angola?
The official language(s) of Angola include Portuguese.
What is the population of Angola?
Angola has a population of approximately 36,170,961 people.
What region is Angola in?
Angola is located in Africa, specifically in the Middle Africa subregion.
What is the international calling code for Angola?
The international dialing code for Angola is +244.
What time zones does Angola observe?
Angola observes the following time zone(s): UTC+01:00.
What is the current time in Angola?
The local time in Angola is currently --:--. This time applies to the primary time zone.
What is the total area of Angola?
Angola covers a total area of 1,246,700 km².
How many states or provinces does Angola have?
Angola is divided into 21 states or provinces.
What are the public holidays in Angola in 2026?
You can view the complete list of public holidays for Angola in 2026 on the Holidays 2026 page.
What are the visa requirements for citizens of Angola?
Visa requirements for citizens of Angola vary by destination. Use our Visa Requirements Checker below to look up requirements for any destination country.