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: 2026-05-19
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 0.011895
AAVE 0.000012
ADA 0.004330
AED 0.003998
AFN 0.068050
AKT 0.001350
ALGO 0.010138
ALL 0.089345
AMD 0.400656
AMP 1.301137
ANG 0.001961
APE 0.007549
APT 0.001153
AR 0.000510
ARB 0.009315
ARS 1.519846
ATOM 0.000529
ATS 0.012868
AUD 0.001525
AVAX 0.000118
AWG 0.001949
AXS 0.000927
AZM 9.253502
AZN 0.001851
BAKE 1.472405
BAM 0.001829
BAT 0.011237
BBD 0.002177
BCH 0.000003
BDT 0.133777
BEF 0.037724
BGN 0.001829
BHD 0.000409
BIF 3.243148
BMD 0.001089
BNB 0.000002
BND 0.001394
BOB 0.007545
BRL 0.005454
BSD 0.001089
BSV 0.000072
BSW 1.271882
BTC 0.000000
BTG 0.002830
BTN 0.104933
BTT 3,383.755133
BUSD 0.001089
BWP 0.014800
BYN 0.002994
BYR 29.937570
BZD 0.002191
CAD 0.001497
CAKE 0.000770
CDF 2.498381
CELO 0.013529
CFX 0.018488
CHF 0.000855
CHZ 0.022141
CLP 0.980896
CNH 0.007407
CNY 0.007405
COMP 0.000049
COP 4.135907
CRC 0.492846
CRO 0.015578
CRV 0.004614
CSPR 0.368523
CUC 0.001089
CUP 0.026122
CVE 0.103120
CVX 0.000627
CYP 0.000547
CZK 0.022734
DAI 0.001089
DASH 0.000025
DCR 0.000065
DEM 0.001829
DFI 1.108631
DJF 0.193712
DKK 0.006988
DOGE 0.010438
DOP 0.064443
DOT 0.000872
DYDX 0.007526
DZD 0.144526
EEK 0.014632
EGLD 0.000278
EGP 0.058049
ENJ 0.025347
EOS 0.013458
ERN 0.016330
ESP 0.155598
ETB 0.171424
ETC 0.000122
ETH 0.000001
EUR 0.000935
EURC 0.000934
FEI 0.001093
FIL 0.001128
FIM 0.005560
FJD 0.002401
FKP 0.000812
FLOW 0.030169
FLR 0.130325
FRAX 0.001096
FRF 0.006134
FTT 0.003369
GALA 0.323778
GBP 0.000812
GEL 0.002908
GGP 0.000812
GHC 124.539867
GHS 0.012454
GIP 0.000812
GMD 0.080422
GMX 0.000165
GNF 9.549343
GNO 0.000009
GRD 0.318656
GRT 0.043284
GT 0.000153
GTQ 0.008299
GUSD 0.001091
GYD 0.227686
HBAR 0.012094
HKD 0.008525
HNL 0.028960
HNT 0.001322
HOT 2.743761
HRK 0.007046
HT 0.007507
HTG 0.142490
HUF 0.337213
ICP 0.000422
IDR 19.296328
IEP 0.000736
ILS 0.003160
IMP 0.000812
IMX 0.006395
INJ 0.000209
INR 0.104933
IQD 1.426406
IRR 1,435.006435
ISK 0.134101
ITL 1.810724
JEP 0.000812
JMD 0.172144
JOD 0.000772
JPY 0.173022
KAS 0.031502
KAVA 0.018903
KCS 0.000136
KDA 0.130877
KES 0.140782
KGS 0.095231
KHR 4.366215
KLAY 0.020929
KMF 0.460069
KNC 0.007582
KPW 0.979757
KRW 1.638599
KSM 0.000219
KWD 0.000335
KYD 0.000905
KZT 0.510824
LAK 23.878841
LBP 97.594583
LDO 0.003057
LEO 0.000108
LINK 0.000112
LKR 0.362560
LRC 0.067173
LRD 0.199525
LSL 0.018125
LTC 0.000020
LTL 0.003229
LUF 0.037724
LUNA 0.017200
LUNC 13.850574
LVL 0.000657
LYD 0.006913
MAD 0.010019
MANA 0.012352
MBX 0.027802
MDL 0.018839
MGA 4.555258
MGF 22.776289
MINA 0.019057
MKD 0.057629
MKR 0.000001
MMK 2.285329
MNT 3.896231
MOP 0.008781
MRO 0.435266
MRU 0.043527
MTL 0.000401
MUR 0.051474
MVR 0.016814
MWK 1.894737
MXN 0.018839
MXV 0.002132
MYR 0.004327
MZM 69.532077
MZN 0.069532
NAD 0.018125
NEAR 0.000675
NEO 0.000377
NEXO 0.001224
NFT 3,849.107069
NGN 1.492598
NIO 0.040016
NLG 0.002061
NOK 0.010096
NPR 0.167972
NZD 0.001859
OKB 0.000013
OMR 0.000419
ONE 0.531101
OP 0.008479
ORDI 0.000262
PAB 0.001089
PAXG 0.000000
PEN 0.003726
PEPE 295.616286
PGK 0.004810
PHP 0.067181
PI 0.007172
PKR 0.303303
PLN 0.003967
POL 0.011976
PTE 0.187483
PYG 6.625964
QAR 0.003963
QNT 0.000015
QTUM 0.001206
ROL 48.716761
RON 0.004872
RPL 0.000627
RSD 0.109759
RUB 0.078899
RUNE 0.002433
RVN 0.196979
RWF 1.591720
SAND 0.015117
SAR 0.004082
SBD 0.008716
SCR 0.015982
SDD 65.343721
SDG 0.653437
SEK 0.010243
SGD 0.001394
SHIB 188.869850
SHP 0.000812
SIT 0.224102
SKK 0.028173
SLE 0.024935
SLL 24.935228
SNX 0.003514
SOL 0.000013
SOS 0.622090
SPL 0.000181
SRD 0.040525
SRG 40.524523
SSP 5.132548
STD 23.158429
STN 0.023158
STX 0.004557
SUI 0.001029
SVC 0.009526
SYP 0.120334
SZL 0.018125
THB 0.035512
THETA 0.005514
TJS 0.010133
TMM 19.090562
TMT 0.003818
TND 0.003162
TON 0.000541
TOP 0.002590
TRL 49,624.137107
TRX 0.003052
TRY 0.049624
TTD 0.007384
TUSD 0.001090
TVD 0.001525
TWD 0.034442
TWT 0.002278
TZS 2.832672
UAH 0.048054
UGX 4.102766
UNI 0.000308
USD 0.001089
USDC 0.001089
USDD 0.001090
USDP 0.001090
USDT 0.001090
UYU 0.043637
UZS 13.098582
VAL 1.810724
VEB 56,318,348.330789
VED 0.563158
VEF 56,315.835786
VES 0.563158
VET 0.161613
VND 28.664415
VUV 0.129259
WAVES 0.002864
WEMIX 0.004030
WOO 0.064462
WST 0.002934
XAF 0.613425
XAG 0.000014
XAU 0.000000
XAUT 0.000000
XBT 0.000000
XCD 0.002947
XCG 0.001961
XCH 0.000392
XDC 0.035020
XDR 0.000796
XEC 148.409690
XEM 1.635741
XLM 0.007415
XMR 0.000003
XOF 0.613425
XPD 0.000001
XPF 0.111594
XPT 0.000001
XRP 0.000788
XTZ 0.003184
YER 0.259772
ZAR 0.018125
ZEC 0.000002
ZIL 0.276898
ZMK 20.575351
ZMW 0.020575
ZWD 0.393980
ZWG 0.028207
ZWL 70.481469

No currencies match your search.

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.