Travel Directions: Djibouti To Angola, East To West Trek

Djibouti is a country in the Horn of Africa, while Angola is on the western coast of Southern Africa. To get from Djibouti to Angola, you would need to travel in a south-westerly direction. The two countries are separated by a considerable distance, with Djibouti located near the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, and Angola bordering the South Atlantic Ocean. The specific route and means of transportation between the two countries would depend on various factors, including preferred mode of travel, time constraints, and budget.

Djibouti to Angola: How far is it?

Djibouti is a small country located in the Horn of Africa, with a latitude of 11.83333 11° 49' 59.988'' N and a longitude of 42.5 42° 30' 0'' E. Angola, on the other hand, is situated on the western coast of Southern Africa and has a latitude of -12.5 -12° 30' 0'' N and a longitude of 18.5 18° 30' 0'' E.

To determine the distance between the two countries, we can use their respective latitudes and longitudes. By calculating the difference in latitude and longitude coordinates, we can find the approximate straight-line distance.

The distance from Djibouti to Angola is approximately 3,700 miles (5,954 kilometers). This distance is a straight line from Djibouti to Angola, as a crow would fly.

However, if one were to travel by land from Djibouti to Angola, the distance would be significantly longer due to the terrain and the lack of direct land routes between the two countries. One possible route would be to travel through Ethiopia, Sudan, Chad, the Central African Republic, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo before finally reaching Angola. This route would cover a distance of approximately 6,200 miles (9,978 kilometers).

It is important to note that the security situation and road conditions in some of these countries may pose challenges and risks for travelers. It is always advisable to check for the latest travel advisories and safety information before embarking on such a journey.

In terms of direction, one would need to travel in a slightly southwestern direction from Djibouti to reach Angola. This involves heading towards the western coast of Africa, where Angola is located.

Travel options from Djibouti to Angola

Travelling from Djibouti to Angola is a journey of over 4,000 miles, so it's important to plan your trip carefully. Here are some travel options to consider:

Overland Safari Tours

Overland safari tours are organised package tours that cater to short-term travellers who want a hassle-free experience. They are more expensive than planning a trip yourself, but food, transport, and accommodation costs are all included. You can usually find options ranging from basic backpacker tours to more luxurious alternatives. Small group tours are the cheapest option, while private tours can be much more expensive. Overland tours are perfect for travellers who don't want to plan their trip in detail and want to minimise hassle.

Public Transport

Public buses are a good option if you're on a budget. They are generally comfortable, safe, and spacious, especially in countries with a good network of sealed roads. Bus prices usually range from $3–$30 USD, depending on the distance travelled. However, in countries or regions with fewer sealed roads, the buses may be older, less comfortable, and more prone to breakdowns and overcrowding. It's important to plan ahead, secure your valuables, and expect delays when travelling in these areas.

Minivans

Minivans are another affordable option commonly used for journeys of up to six hours within a country or to a neighbouring country. They are very cheap, with prices ranging from $1-20 USD depending on the distance travelled. Minivans usually don't leave until they are full, so it's best to jump on one that looks ready to go to avoid long waiting times.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is more common in some parts of Africa, such as Namibia and South Africa, than in other regions. It is not recommended in Central Africa. Hitchhiking can be a convenient way to get around if you're flexible and on a budget, but it does come with some risks and challenges. It's generally recommended to have some prior hitchhiking experience before doing it in Africa. When hitchhiking, it's considered rude to stick out your thumb; instead, wave your hand up and down to flag down a ride.

Renting a Car

Renting a car can give you more flexibility during your trip, but it will be more expensive. If you plan to visit game reserves, it's essential to know which game parks you want to go to and where the best viewing areas are to cut down on fuel expenses. Renting a car to drive along the Garden Route, a scenic stretch of the South African coast, is a popular option. Car rentals in South Africa can be found for as low as $35-55 USD per day, especially if you book online.

Flying

Flying is the fastest way to travel long distances. For example, the flight time between Luanda, Angola, and Johannesburg, South Africa, is around 3 hours and 30 minutes. However, it can be more expensive than other travel options, with flight prices ranging from $350 to $1,300 USD.

Visa requirements for Djibouti and Angola

To travel from Djibouti to Angola, you would need to head in a west-south-westerly direction. Here is some information about the visa requirements for both countries.

Visa Requirements for Djibouti

All visitors to Djibouti must obtain either a visa on arrival, an electronic visa online, or a visa from one of the Djiboutian diplomatic missions prior to arrival, unless they are from a visa-exempt country.

US citizens, for example, must have a visa to enter Djibouti. This can be obtained on arrival at Ambouli International Airport, but it is recommended to obtain a visa in advance to speed up the immigration process and avoid potential issues. Visas are typically valid for one year and allow multiple entries.

To apply for a Djibouti visa, you will need:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure, with at least one blank page per entry stamp
• A completed Djibouti visa application form
• Passport photos that meet the requirements of the Embassy of Djibouti
• A vaccination certificate for the Yellow Fever vaccine (required for all travellers)
• A letter from the host company or individual for a tourist visa

Tourist and business visas typically cost around £103 (three months) or £135 (six months).

Visa Requirements for Angola

Angola has recently introduced a visa-free policy for tourism purposes, allowing passport holders from certain countries to enter without a visa for stays of up to 30 days at a time (90 days total per calendar year). US citizens, for example, are eligible for this visa-free entry.

For other types of visas or for stays longer than 30 days, a visa or visa pre-approval is required. The visa application process typically involves submitting the following documents:

• A completed visa application form
• A valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity beyond the intended stay
• One or more recent passport-sized photographs
• 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 (e.g., bank statements)
• Invitation letter or supporting documents, depending on the type of visa
• Medical certificate and yellow fever vaccination certificate (may be required)

The cost of a visa varies depending on the type and can range from $50 to $250. It is important to note that Angola has instituted a mandatory quarantine for anyone entering the country, regardless of citizenship.

Safety considerations for Djibouti and Angola

Djibouti and Angola are two African countries with distinct safety considerations for travellers. Here are some essential safety tips for those travelling between the two nations:

Djibouti:

• Terrorism: There is a high threat of terrorist attacks in Djibouti, with the group Al Shabaab posing a significant risk. Stay vigilant, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities. Avoid crowded areas and places frequented by foreigners, such as hotels, restaurants and bars.
• Crime: While crime levels are relatively low in Djibouti, petty crime and pickpocketing do occur, especially in isolated areas like Dorale and Khor Ambado. Avoid travelling alone to these areas, and don't walk around after dark.
• Natural Disasters: Djibouti is prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and flash floods, especially in the capital city. Stay informed about the risks and follow official advice during natural disasters.
• Health: Malaria, Dengue Fever, Polio and Tuberculosis are prevalent in Djibouti. Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and take precautions to avoid insect bites. Medical facilities are limited, so ensure you have adequate travel insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation if required.
• LGBTQ+ Travellers: Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Djibouti, but it is not widely accepted. Public displays of affection by LGBTQ+ couples could attract unwanted attention from the authorities.
• Transport: Crime isn't a significant issue, but the local transport system may be unsafe. Roads are often narrow, poorly lit and badly maintained, and driving standards are generally poor. Stay on paved roads, and avoid travelling outside city centres after dark.
• Border Regions: Avoid travelling within 10km of the borders with Eritrea and Somalia due to ongoing tensions, the threat of kidnapping and the presence of landmines.

Angola:

• Crime: Angola has a high rate of violent crime, including armed robbery, assault, carjacking and homicide. Stay vigilant and avoid walking alone, especially at night. Keep valuables out of sight and be cautious when using transport or travelling on roads.
• Civil Unrest: Demonstrations and civil unrest are common, particularly in Cabinda, Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul. Avoid large public gatherings and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Health: Medical facilities in Angola are limited and may not meet international standards. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and carry any required medications. Insect-borne diseases, including malaria, dengue fever and yellow fever, are common. Take precautions to avoid insect bites.
• LGBTQ+ Travellers: Same-sex relationships have been decriminalised, but societal biases against LGBTQ+ individuals exist. Avoid public displays of affection, as this could lead to harassment or violence.
• Women Travellers: Angola is not considered safe for female solo travellers. Women should avoid walking alone or travelling at night and take extra precautions to ensure their safety.
• Natural Disasters: Flash flooding is common during the rainy season from October to May. Follow the advice of local authorities and stay away from affected areas.

What are the key attractions in Djibouti and Angola?

Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa, is a small country with a variety of landscapes, including volcanoes, sinking plains, limestone chimneys, salt lakes, canyons, and plateaus. Here are some of the key attractions in Djibouti:

• Day Forest National Park: This park is located in central Djibouti and covers an area of 1,800 hectares. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes, as well as rare plants and trees.
• Lake Assal: Lake Assal is a salt lake located in southwestern Djibouti. It is the lowest point on Earth, sitting 155 meters below sea level. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and is considered a national treasure.
• The Great Rift Valley: This valley, formed by tectonic activity, runs through Djibouti and is home to several lakes, including Lake Abbe. Visitors can spot wildlife such as hippos, flamingos, and crocodiles.
• Tadjoura: Tadjoura is an ancient town on the Gulf of Tadjoura, known for its colonial architecture and seafood cuisine. It is often called La Ville Blanche due to its many whitewashed homes.
• Moucha Island: A short boat trip from Djibouti City, Moucha Island offers a relaxing day trip with beach and snorkelling opportunities.
• Khor Ambado Beach: Located in Tadjoura Bay, this beach provides a respite from the heat and is ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Angola, on the other hand, is the largest country in Africa, boasting a diverse landscape of Atlantic coastlines, grasslands, savannas, tropical forests, and urban areas. Here are some of the key attractions in Angola:

• Luanda: The capital city of Angola offers a mix of modern high-rise buildings and traditional lean-to huts. While it may not be a typical tourist destination, Luanda has famous landmarks, beaches, and beautiful sights.
• Ilha de Luanda: This small peninsula stretches for 5 kilometres in front of Luanda and is a popular spot for nightlife and entertainment, featuring beaches, restaurants, and bars.
• Ilha do Mussulo: A 30-kilometre-long strip of land just outside Luanda, Mussulo offers a more relaxed atmosphere with warm seawater and a chilled vibe.
• Kissama National Park: Located about 70-75 kilometres south of Luanda, this national park is a wildlife sanctuary that protects and preserves African species such as buffalo, elephants, and sea turtles.
• The Tunda Vala Fissure: Found between Lubango and Namibe, this natural sight offers phenomenal views and hiking opportunities at an elevation of 2,600 metres above sea level.
• Cangandala National Park: Home to the giant sable antelope, the rarest antelope in the world and the national symbol of Angola, this park offers road and air access for visitors.
• Malanje: The centre-north of Angola, roughly 400 kilometres from Luanda, Malanje features spectacular Angolan attractions such as the Kalandula Falls and the Black Stones of Pungo Andongo.

Frequently asked questions