Angola's Tourism: Open For Exploration And Adventure

Angola is open for tourism, but there are several factors to consider before planning a trip there. Firstly, while tourists from certain countries, including the US, do not need a visa for visits of up to 30 days, tourists from other countries may need to apply for a visa online. Secondly, there are health considerations, such as the risk of insect-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, and yellow fever, and the requirement to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before arrival. Lastly, there are safety and security concerns, including a high crime rate, the risk of civil unrest, and the presence of landmines outside major cities.

Tourist visa requirements

To enter Angola, citizens of certain countries do not need to apply for a visa if they intend to stay for 30 days or less. These countries include:

• Andorra
• Austria
• Belgium
• Brazil
• Canada
• Cape Verde
• Croatia
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Ireland
• Italy
• Liechtenstein
• Luxembourg
• Mauritius
• Monaco
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• The Netherlands
• Portugal
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Seychelles
• Singapore
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• The United Kingdom
• The United States
• The Vatican City

Citizens of all other countries need to apply for a visa before entering Angola.

To apply for a tourist visa, you must submit the following documents:

• A valid passport for the entire duration of your stay in Angola.
• A fully completed and signed Angola application form (two copies).
• A recent passport-sized photo of yourself.
• Proof of accommodation in Angola.
• Health insurance that covers your entire stay in Angola.
• A bank statement document.
• A copy of your plane ticket along with proof of entry and exit dates for Angola.
• A letter of invitation from a host in Angola.
• Civil status documents.
• Birth certificate (if applicable).
• A criminal record document.
• A medical certificate.

The processing fee for a tourist visa is $70 per applicant, payable by money order to the Embassy of Angola. The processing time is 5-8 business days.

Please note that the Embassy of Angola may request additional documents, so it is important to contact them before submitting your application.

Crime and safety

Luanda

The capital city of Luanda is one of the top areas for crime in Angola. Street crime is a significant threat, with petty offences like pickpocketing and theft from vehicles and homes being frequent. These incidents can turn violent when perpetrated by armed criminals, who sometimes ride scooters. The areas around the Roque Santeiro market and Rocha Pinto, as well as the Ilha do Cabo (or Ilha) – the island near Luanda – are particularly dangerous. The "Serpentine Road" in front of the U.S. Embassy should also be avoided.

Rape has been reported in the bar and club areas of Luanda, and women are advised not to travel alone at night. Everyone should avoid the streets of Luanda after dark.

Outside Luanda

Outside of the capital, the provinces of Cabinda, Lunda Norte, and Lunda Sul are hotspots for civil unrest and violent crime. Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur from time to time in Angola, and even those that are intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

The presence of diamonds in Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul increases levels of crime and banditry, and there is also the potential for civil unrest. Official documentation is required to enter these areas, and failure to meet these requirements may result in detention or restrictions on movement.

Landmines and unexploded munitions are also a hazard outside of major cities, particularly in the southern provinces and areas bordering Zambia.

General Safety Advice

• Avoid pulling over on roadways, especially in rural areas, as thieves may use this tactic to rob you.
• Do not walk alone or at night.
• Avoid wearing or displaying valuable items like electronic devices, cameras, and jewellery.
• Keep car doors locked and windows up at all times, and hide valuables from view.
• Do not resist if you are the victim of an armed robbery, carjacking, or mugging.
• Avoid using public transportation.
• Be vigilant when withdrawing money from banks and ATMs, as victims of robbery are often targeted because they are perceived to be wealthy.
• Do not take photos or film people without their permission, especially near government buildings or infrastructure.
• Always carry ID.
• Do not accept food or drinks from strangers; they may be drugged.
• Do not buy or traffic goods made from ivory.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Healthcare

Angola's healthcare system is split into two sectors: public and private. Treatment at state hospitals and clinics is free, but the standards are low, and most of the population has limited access to medical care. The country's best hospitals are in the capital, Luanda, but even these don't meet the standards that many expats are used to. Most medical staff speak Portuguese, and some speak Spanish, but English speakers are rare.

Public healthcare in Angola is underfunded and understaffed, and it can be difficult to access. As a result, most expats and locals opt for private healthcare. Even so, private clinics are generally considered inadequate, and many expats travel to other countries, such as Namibia, Cuba, Spain, and Portugal, for more complicated procedures. Some companies have basic medical facilities on-site to stabilise patients before evacuating them to better-equipped institutions, often in nearby South Africa.

Pharmacies, called farmácias, are mostly found in Luanda and are often understocked. Those in hospitals and clinics are usually open 24 hours a day. Expats are advised to take note of the generic names for any medication they are taking, as brand names vary from country to country. Due to medication shortages, it is also recommended to travel with a supply of any chronic medication that might be needed.

Angola has a high prevalence of diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, neonatal disorders, typhoid, tuberculosis, cholera, diarrhoeal diseases, rabies, and schistosomiasis. Malaria is a huge concern for maternal health, contributing to around 25% of total maternal mortality. The country also has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with one in seventy women facing a risk of dying during pregnancy or childbirth. Almost one in five children die before their fifth birthday.

The Angolan government has struggled to develop an effective healthcare system since the end of the civil war in 2002, which decimated infrastructure and public services. The war resulted in 1 million deaths, 4.5 million internally displaced people, and 450,000 refugees. The government has been unable to promote programs that effectively address the basic needs of the people, and healthcare is not available in much of the country.

LGBTQ+ travel

Angola has a complicated history with homosexuality, influenced by the period of occupation by independent African tribes and the introduction of Christianity by the Portuguese Empire. This has resulted in a negative view of homosexuality, affecting both locals and tourists. However, in recent years, there have been significant changes, and Angola has made strides towards improving and protecting the rights of its LGBTQ+ community. Here is some essential information for LGBTQ+ travellers considering a visit to Angola:

Legal Situation

In January 2019, Angola decriminalised same-sex relations by adopting a new Penal Code, which was celebrated by human rights activists worldwide. This new code also banned discrimination based on sexual orientation. Furthermore, the law now includes a non-discrimination provision for sexual orientation and gender identity. Despite these positive developments, it is important to note that same-sex marriage and adoption by gay people are not allowed in Angola.

Sociocultural Landscape

While the legal situation has improved, societal attitudes may lag, and LGBTQ+ individuals might still face discrimination or hostility from some locals. This varies across different regions and cities within Angola. LGBTQ+ travellers should remain vigilant and exercise discretion when displaying public affection or discussing their sexual orientation. It is crucial to stay informed about the local landscape and exercise caution during your visit.

Safety Precautions

Before travelling to Angola, it is recommended to seek current advice and information on the LGBTQ+ situation to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some specific precautions suggested for LGBTQ+ travellers:

• Stay vigilant and be prepared to adjust your behaviour if necessary to protect yourself and others.
• Avoid public displays of affection, especially between same-sex couples, to minimise the risk of negative reactions.
• Keep a low profile and be discreet about your sexual orientation or gender identity when interacting with unfamiliar individuals.
• Stay informed about local LGBTQ+ organisations, locations, and events by connecting with other queer travellers and utilising online resources.
• Be mindful of your digital footprint, as some may track or misuse your online presence. Avoid sharing travel plans or personal information publicly.
• Always carry required medicines, as health facilities may lack adequate supplies, especially outside large cities.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Positive Signs

Angola has shown progress in recent years, hosting the first LGBTIQ festival, FESTÍRIS, in 2016. Additionally, there are two specific LGBT groups operating in the country, one of which, Iris Angola Association, has received official recognition. Furthermore, the popular musical artist Titica, a transgender woman, is based in Angola, although she still faces frequent harassment. These signs indicate a growing tolerance and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities within the country.

Travel restrictions

Angola is open for tourism, but there are several restrictions in place that travellers should be aware of.

COVID-19

As of May 2024, Angola has the following COVID-19-related travel restrictions in place:

• All passengers must show evidence of a negative COVID-19 test completed 72 hours before travel to Angola.
• All passengers must complete an Advance Passenger Information form (FRV form) 72 hours before entry to Angola.
• All passengers must undergo a rapid COVID-19 test immediately on disembarking the plane.
• All passengers arriving in Angola must undertake compulsory self-quarantine for 7 days before undergoing a further COVID-19 test. If you receive a positive result, you will be required to enter mandatory quarantine at a government facility for observation and further testing.
• All passengers must show evidence of a negative COVID-19 test completed 24 hours before departure from Angola.
• Face masks are compulsory in all areas outside of your home or hotel room, including in private motor vehicles.
• There are restrictions on travel into and out of Luanda province and the neighbouring province of Kwanza Norte. If you travel out of Luanda, you must show evidence of a rapid COVID-19 test or you will be fined.

Visas

U.S. passport holders travelling to Angola for tourism do not need a visa 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.

Australian citizens do not need a visa to visit Angola as a tourist. For all other travel, a visa must be obtained by applying online with Angola's Serviço de Migração.

Other

• There is a risk of civil unrest and violent crime in Angola, particularly in Cabinda, Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul.
• Demonstrations and civil unrest are common and can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• The crime rate in Angola is high, and crimes are often violent. Common crimes include petty theft, armed robbery, carjacking, and "smash-and-grab" robberies.
• In and around Luanda, criminals have kidnapped foreigners from vehicles. Lock your doors and windows, even when moving, and be alert for attempts to stop your vehicle.
• Landmines are a risk throughout the country outside major cities.
• Medical facilities in Angola are very limited and may not meet international standards. If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to another country with appropriate facilities.

Frequently asked questions