Exploring Angola: Is It Possible?

Angola is a country in Africa that remains off the beaten path for most travellers due to its stringent visa policies, high prices, and history of war. However, it boasts a plethora of attractions, including wildlife parks, historic colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches. While it may be an enticing destination for adventurous travellers, it is important to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Angola due to safety concerns such as violent crime, civil unrest, and the presence of landmines.

Visa requirements and border measures

Overview

US citizens traveling 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 travelers must obtain a visa or visa pre-approval before traveling to Angola.

Visa requirements

US citizens traveling to Angola for tourism must present the following upon arrival:

• A passport which is valid for at least the planned duration of stay within Angola.
• A yellow fever vaccination card.

All other travelers must obtain a visa or visa pre-approval before traveling to Angola. US passport holders traveling to the Republic of Angola for other reasons, including: work, temporary residency, study, or medical treatment, should apply for the appropriate visa at the nearest Angolan Embassy or Consulate or through the Angolan Migration Service’s (SME) site for visas and visa pre-approval. SME strives to complete visa processing within three business days, but delays may occur.

Border measures

Foreign workers in Angola must arrive with a work visa and must keep the visa current. Doing otherwise risks fines and arrest.

Immigration and customs officials at the airport have detained foreigners without cause and demanded gratuities before allowing them to enter or depart Angola. If harassed at a port of entry, ask to speak with the US Embassy or an immigration shift supervisor.

Currency restrictions

Any amount over $10,000 in combined currency must be declared upon entry. Non-residents and residents may also exit the country with up to $10,000. Expect to be searched at the airport and any amount over those limits to be confiscated.

Health requirements

The US Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Angola.

US citizens traveling 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 travelers must obtain a visa or visa pre-approval before traveling to Angola.

Health and safety precautions

Angola has a high crime rate, with violent crimes such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, and homicide being common. There is also a high risk of kidnapping in and around Luanda, with foreigners often being abducted from their vehicles by criminals seeking ransom. To protect yourself from violent crime:

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night, and do not display cash or valuables such as watches, jewellery, or smartphones.
• Take care in crowded places such as markets.
• Avoid walking in Luanda at night.
• Avoid walking between bars and restaurants on the Ilha, an island near Luanda.
• Be alert for attempts to stop your vehicle, and use varied routes and schedules for your travel.
• Lock your car doors and keep the windows up.
• Dress conservatively.
• Drive with the doors locked and windows up.
• Keep valuables out of sight, and do not use cell phones or laptops while stopped in traffic.
• Travel with a certified copy of your passport and visa to prevent the originals from being taken, and keep the originals in a secure location.

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

Landmines are also a danger throughout the country outside major cities, especially in the southern provinces of Bie, Cuando Cubango Cuanza Sul, Moxico, and Huila.

When it comes to health, there are several insect-borne diseases in Angola, including malaria, dengue, filariasis, African sleeping sickness, and yellow fever. To protect yourself from insect-borne diseases, ensure your accommodation is insect-proof, use insect repellent, and wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing.

Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases are also common, including viral haemorrhagic fever, bilharzia (schistosomiasis), and typhoid fever. To protect yourself from these diseases, drink boiled or bottled water, avoid raw and undercooked food, don't swim in freshwater, and don't go near dogs and other mammals.

Medical facilities in Angola are very limited, especially outside of Luanda. If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to another country with appropriate facilities, which can be very expensive. Make sure to carry all required medications with you, as most medicines are unavailable in Angola.

Finally, there is a risk of HIV/AIDS in Angola, with high infection rates. Take precautions if you are taking part in high-risk activities, and seek urgent medical advice if you are the victim of a violent crime, especially sexual assault.

Crime and safety warnings

Angola has a high crime rate, with violent crime being common. The capital, Luanda, has a particularly high level of crime, some of it violent. Criminals target areas popular with foreigners, and muggers can be armed. Attacks have sometimes been fatal, and incidents of rape have been reported in popular nightlife areas and private homes.

To protect yourself from violent crime, you should:

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night, and avoid isolated areas.
• Avoid walking between bars and restaurants at night on the Ilha, near Luanda.
• Take varied routes and schedules for your travel.
• Keep car doors locked and windows closed at all times, especially in slow-moving traffic.
• Hide valuables from view.
• Avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices, cameras, and jewellery.
• Avoid withdrawing money from banks and ATMs or exchanging large sums of cash in public.
• Put valuables and cash in a hotel safe where possible.
• Stay in well-lit, busy areas.
• Follow local laws and customs and be respectful of cultural differences.

If you are the victim of an armed robbery, carjacking, or mugging, do not resist.

Kidnappings have occurred in and around Luanda, with victims usually being foreigners. Criminals are often motivated by financial gain through ransom demands. Be wary of any attempts to stop your vehicle.

Civil unrest is common in the provinces of Cabinda, Lunda Norte, and Lunda Sul, with armed groups active in these areas. There have been reports of violent attacks targeting foreigners, and demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur from time to time in Angola, including in Luanda. Visitors are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests, and large public gatherings as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

Landmines and unexploded munitions are also a hazard outside major cities, particularly in the southern provinces and areas bordering Zambia. It is recommended to remain on well-used roads and paths as mined areas are often unmarked.

Travel and accommodation tips

Angola is a captivating country with rich history, cultural diversity, and vibrant cities. However, it is important to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Angola due to safety concerns. Here are some travel and accommodation tips to keep in mind:

Transportation

• Buses: Buses are a good option for getting around Angola, with a variety of routes and schedules. Macon is the best-known bus company.
• Trains: The rail network is scarce, and trains only run once a week, so it is not a reliable option.
• Moto-taxis: Moto-taxis are ideal for short trips and are inexpensive.
• Taxis: The taxi service can be chaotic, and it is often better to use Allo-Taxi, Angola's version of Uber.
• Minibuses: Minibuses, or candongueiros, are van-like vehicles that transport multiple passengers along set routes. They are inexpensive but can be unreliable and unsafe.
• Domestic flights: Domestic flights are offered by the company TAAG, but they tend to be expensive.

Safety

• Crime: Angola has a high rate of violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping. Avoid walking alone, especially at night, and be vigilant when travelling in vehicles.
• Civil unrest: Demonstrations and civil unrest are common, particularly in Cabinda, Lunda Norte, and Lunda Sul. Avoid large gatherings and follow local authorities' instructions.
• Landmines: Landmines are a danger outside major cities, especially in the southern provinces. Stay on main roads to avoid them.
• Health: Medical facilities in Angola are limited and may not meet international standards. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and are up to date with all necessary vaccinations.
• LGBTQIA+ travellers: While same-sex relationships have been decriminalised, homosexuality is frowned upon and not socially accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.
• Currency: The official currency is the Angolan Kwanza, but US dollars are also accepted in some places. However, only new and unblemished bills are accepted.
• Power and water: Power and water cuts are common, so bring external batteries and charge them whenever possible.
• Photography: It is illegal to take photos or use certain devices near government buildings and infrastructure. Always ask for permission before photographing people.

Accommodation

• Luanda: Luanda is the most expensive city in the world, so carefully plan your accommodation expenses.
• Hotels: Major hotels in Luanda have ramps, but accessibility for persons with disabilities is limited outside the capital.
• Visa: Tourist visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days at a time (90 days total per calendar year) for some nationalities. Check with the Angolan embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Local laws and customs

Angola has a high crime rate, with violent crimes such as armed robbery, assault, carjacking, and homicide being common. The local police often lack the resources to respond to serious criminal incidents. To protect yourself from violent crime, it is recommended to take varied routes and schedules for your travel, avoid walking alone or at night, and keep your car doors locked and windows up. It is also advised to avoid public displays of cash and valuable personal property.

In addition to the high crime rate, there is also a risk of civil unrest and political tension in Angola. Demonstrations and protests can turn violent, so it is important to avoid large public gatherings and follow the instructions of local authorities.

When travelling to Angola, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• It is illegal to take pictures or use binoculars, maps, or GPS near government buildings, military installations, and key infrastructure. Angolan law defines key infrastructure broadly, including historic or abandoned train stations or airfields, and bridges. Violating this law can result in fines, confiscation of equipment, and detention.
• Do not take photos of people without their permission.
• Disrespecting government officials is illegal and can lead to expulsion from the country.
• Drug offences are taken very seriously in Angola, with severe punishments including long prison sentences and heavy fines.
• Angola prohibits discrimination against people based on their sexual orientation. However, public attitudes towards homosexuality may be less tolerant than in some other countries, and public displays of affection may attract negative attention.
• It is important to carry a certified copy of your passport and/or identity documents at all times. Failure to do so can result in an on-the-spot fine.
• Angola is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which bans trade in ivory. Buying or trafficking ivory goods will likely result in prosecution and punishment.
• If you do not speak Portuguese, it is recommended to have a Portuguese-speaking contact in case of any dealings with the police or other authorities.
• There are restrictions on importing certain goods into Angola, including medicines, plants, fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. It is important to declare amounts of money over $10,000 upon entry and exit.

Frequently asked questions