Travel To Angola: What Americans Need To Know

Yes, Americans can travel to Angola, but they need to obtain a visa before travelling. The visa application process can take up to 30 days, and US citizens need to provide a valid passport, passport photos, a visa request letter, a copy of their plane ticket, and a copy of their hotel reservation, among other requirements. Travellers may also need to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate and proof of COVID-19 vaccination. It is also recommended that travellers are vaccinated for hepatitis A, malaria, and typhoid.

Do Americans need a visa to enter Angola?

Yes, American citizens need a visa to enter Angola. U.S. citizens travelling to Angola for tourism are eligible for visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days at a time (90 days total per calendar year). All other travellers must obtain a visa or visa pre-approval before travelling to Angola.

To apply for a visa, you will need:

• A valid passport, with at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages for the entry stamp.
• Passport photos.
• A visa request letter.
• A copy of your plane ticket and hotel reservation.
• Proof of sufficient funds.
• An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever.
• A completed visa application form.
• A money order.

The cost of an Angola visa is generally more than $200. These fees are per visa and can vary based on the type of travel.

It is important to note that the visa application process can take time, so travellers may need to wait up to 30 days for their visa to be processed and approved.

What are the requirements for an Angolan tourist visa?

To obtain an Angolan tourist visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• A valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity beyond your intended stay.
• A completed visa application form.
• One recent passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of travel itinerary, such as flight reservations.
• Proof of accommodation arrangements in Angola (hotel reservation, invitation letter, etc.).
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Angola (a bank statement showing a minimum of $200 per day).
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate.
• A processing fee of $70.00 per applicant, paid by money order to the Embassy of Angola.

The tourist visa must be used within 60 days from the issue date and is valid for 30 days, which can be extended twice for the same period.

What are the recommended safety precautions when travelling in Angola?

Angola has a high crime rate, and common crimes range from petty theft to violent crimes such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, and homicide. The risk of violent crime is much higher at night, so it is recommended not to walk alone or at night. Criminals have been known to target vehicles, and foreigners have been kidnapped from cars in and around Luanda. To protect yourself, you should lock your car doors and keep the windows up, and be alert for attempts to stop your vehicle.

There is also a risk of civil unrest and political tension in Angola, particularly in Cabinda, Lunda Norte, and Lunda Sul. Protests and demonstrations can turn violent, so it is best to avoid large public gatherings and political rallies and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Medical facilities in Angola are very limited, so if you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to another country with appropriate facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation.

Insect-borne diseases are common in Angola, including malaria, dengue, filariasis, African sleeping sickness, and yellow fever. To protect yourself, make sure your accommodation is insect-proof, use insect repellent, and wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing.

It is illegal to use cameras, binoculars, GPS devices, or maps near government buildings or infrastructure. Do not take photos or film people without their permission, especially around government buildings or key infrastructure, as your equipment may be confiscated.

When travelling outside of Luanda, only travel with experienced people who know and understand local conditions well, and keep to main roads to avoid landmines.

What vaccinations are required to enter Angola?

When planning a trip to Angola, it is important to consult official health authorities for up-to-date information on required and recommended vaccinations. Here is an overview of the vaccinations that may be necessary for travellers to Angola:

Yellow Fever

A yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers to Angola aged 9 months or older. This vaccine is highly effective in preventing yellow fever, a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It is important to note that proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required when entering Angola and when travelling from Angola to other regions.

Typhoid

The Typhoid vaccination is recommended for travellers to Angola. Typhoid is a bacterial infection primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected people. The vaccine offers key protection and is especially important when accessing safe food and water may be challenging.

Hepatitis A

The Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for most travellers to Angola. Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the HAV virus and spread through contaminated food, water, and close contact. The vaccine provides essential protection, and maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are also crucial for prevention.

Polio

It is recommended to ensure that polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling to Angola. Polio has been identified in Angola in the past year, and travellers are at an increased risk of exposure. Adults who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single booster dose, while unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated individuals should complete the vaccination series before travel.

Rabies

Rabies vaccination is recommended for travellers to Angola, especially those who may come into contact with animals. Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in the country. If a rabies exposure occurs, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban or urban medical facilities. Pre-exposure vaccination is crucial for high-risk individuals, and post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.

Hepatitis B

The Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for travellers to Angola. Hepatitis B is a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, and the vaccine offers robust and long-lasting protection. Safe practices, such as avoiding needle sharing and practising safe sex, are also important in preventing the spread of this infection.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

It is recommended that all international travellers, including those going to Angola, are fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine. Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide, and travellers are at risk if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks before departure.

Chickenpox (Varicella)

The Chickenpox vaccination is recommended as a routine vaccine for travellers.

Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (Tdap)

The Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, is also recommended for travellers to Angola. Tetanus bacteria can enter the bloodstream through injuries or wounds, and diphtheria and pertussis are spread through respiratory droplets and close contact.

Other Vaccinations

Depending on individual circumstances and risk factors, other vaccinations that may be considered for travel to Angola include cholera, meningitis, shingles, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, and Zika. Malaria is also prevalent in Angola, and travellers are advised to take antimalarial medication to protect themselves from infection.

What are the recommended precautions to take when driving in Angola?

When driving in Angola, there are several precautions you should take to ensure your safety. Here are some recommended precautions:

• Obtain the necessary documentation: Ensure you have a valid driver's license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is highly recommended in Angola and serves as a translation of your native license. It is also useful for car rentals and additional identification during police checks.
• Be aware of the road conditions: Roads outside of major cities, such as Luanda, are often in poor condition. Keep in mind that during the rainy season, from November to April, roads may become impassable due to flooding and erosion. Additionally, landmines, unexploded bombs, and weapons can still be a danger on roads, verges, and bridges.
• Follow the local driving rules and regulations: Drive on the right side of the road, obey speed limits, and give way to traffic coming from your right at intersections and junctions. Be cautious when overtaking and always alert other drivers using lights, horns, or hand signals.
• Practice defensive driving: Angolans can be aggressive drivers, so it's important to stay alert and follow defensive driving practices. Avoid driving at night, especially in areas that are not well-lit.
• Be vigilant at police checkpoints: Police may set up spontaneous roadblocks to check vehicle documentation. Keep all necessary documents, such as your driver's license, IDP, vehicle rental papers, and insurance, readily available.
• Take safety precautions: Always wear your seatbelt, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Check your oil and coolant levels regularly, and adjust your wheel pressure according to the terrain.
• Be cautious in urban areas: Luanda, the capital city, is known for its heavy traffic and chaotic driving conditions. Consider using alternative modes of transportation, such as taxis or ride-sharing services, to navigate the city.
• Plan your route in advance: Angola is a large country with vast distances between tourist spots. Use a detailed map or GPS to plan your route, and take into account the time it will take to travel between destinations. Some roads may be inaccessible or have toll booths where you need to pay a small amount.
• Be mindful of fuel availability: Keep your tank filled, as fuel shortages can occur, especially in the southern part of the country. Queueing at gas stations is common.
• Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle: If you plan to explore remote areas or off-road destinations, renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. It will provide better traction and handling for unpaved roads and challenging terrain.
• Be aware of local laws and cultural differences: Always carry certified copies of your passport's photo page when travelling outside of major cities. Public displays of affection, particularly for same-sex couples, may attract negative attention.

Frequently asked questions