Travel : Angola - Best spots & other details of this African country

 

Angola, located on the southwestern coast of Africa, is a country rich in natural resources, cultural diversity, and stunning landscapes. Having emerged from a long civil war in 2002, Angola is now a country on the rise, with its vibrant capital, Luanda, at the forefront of its development. Angola offers a variety of attractions, from pristine beaches along the Atlantic Ocean to vast national parks teeming with wildlife and dramatic highland scenery. Although relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, Angola provides an authentic and off-the-beaten-path travel experience.

 Best Spots to Visit in Angola

1. **Luanda**

   - **Description:** The capital and largest city of Angola, situated on the Atlantic coast.

   - **Highlights:** Luanda is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modernity and colonial history. Key attractions include the Fortaleza de São Miguel, an old Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the city and harbor, and the National Museum of Slavery, which provides insight into Angola’s history as a center of the transatlantic slave trade. The Marginal Promenade and Ilha do Mussulo are popular spots for enjoying the beach, nightlife, and dining.

2. **Kissama National Park (Quiçama)**

   - **Description:** Located about 70 km south of Luanda, this is one of Angola’s most accessible wildlife parks.

   - **Highlights:** Kissama National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to see elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and a variety of bird species. The park is known for its conservation efforts, including the successful relocation of elephants from Botswana. Visitors can take guided game drives or boat safaris along the Kwanza River.

3. **Benguela**

   - **Description:** A coastal city known for its colonial architecture and beautiful beaches.

   - **Highlights:** Benguela is famous for its well-preserved Portuguese colonial buildings and relaxed atmosphere. The city’s beaches, such as Praia Morena and Baía Azul, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The nearby Lobito Bay is a great spot for fishing and enjoying fresh seafood.

4. **Lubango and the Serra da Leba**

   - **Description:** A city in southern Angola, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

   - **Highlights:** Lubango is known for its cool climate and proximity to the Serra da Leba, a mountain range with one of Angola’s most scenic drives. The Serra da Leba Pass is famous for its winding road that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Another attraction near Lubango is the Tundavala Gap, a stunning escarpment offering panoramic views over the plains below.

5. **Kalandula Falls**

   - **Description:** One of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Angola, located in the Malanje Province.

   - **Highlights:** Kalandula Falls, also known as Calandula Falls, is the second-highest waterfall in Africa, after Victoria Falls. The waterfall plunges over 100 meters into the Lucala River, creating a spectacular sight. The surrounding area is lush and green, making it a great spot for hiking and nature photography.

6. **Namibe**

   - **Description:** A coastal town known for its desert landscapes and proximity to the Namib Desert.

   - **Highlights:** Namibe offers a unique combination of desert and sea. The town is a gateway to the Namib Desert, where visitors can explore the vast sand dunes, rock formations, and the rare Welwitschia plant. Namibe also has beautiful, secluded beaches and colonial architecture to explore.

7. **Iona National Park**

   - **Description:** The largest national park in Angola, located in the southwestern part of the country.

   - **Highlights:** Iona National Park is known for its stunning desert landscapes, including dunes, rocky outcrops, and grasslands. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including oryx, springbok, and ostriches. It’s a remote and rugged destination, perfect for adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Best Seasons to Visit

- **Dry Season (May to October):** The best time to visit Angola for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities is during the dry season. The weather is cooler, with clear skies and less humidity, making it ideal for exploring national parks, hiking, and enjoying the beaches. This is also the best time for safaris, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.

- **Wet Season (November to April):** The wet season brings higher temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall. While the landscape becomes lush and green, some areas may be difficult to access due to muddy roads and swollen rivers. However, this period can be good for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive in Angola.

Best Cuisines

Angolan cuisine is a reflection of its diverse cultures, with strong Portuguese and African influences. Some traditional dishes to try include:

- **Muamba de Galinha:** A chicken stew made with palm oil, garlic, okra, and various spices, often served with funge (a staple made from cassava or maize flour).

- **Calulu:** A popular dish made with dried fish or meat, cooked with vegetables like spinach, okra, and sweet potatoes, often accompanied by rice or funge.

- **Funge:** A dough-like staple made from cassava or maize flour, similar to polenta, served with stews and sauces.

- **Moamba de Ginguba:** A peanut-based stew made with chicken or fish, flavored with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, served with rice or funge.

- **Grelhados:** Grilled meats and seafood, such as beef, chicken, or fish, often marinated with peri-peri (spicy chili sauce) and served with fries or salad.

- **Cachupa:** A hearty stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat or fish, originally from Cape Verde but popular in Angola as well.

 Airlines Connectivity

Angola is well connected internationally through its main airport:

- **Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD)** in Luanda: The primary gateway to Angola, serving flights to and from major cities in Africa, Europe, and South America.

Several major airlines operate flights to Angola, including:

- **TAAG Angola Airlines:** The national carrier, offering flights to destinations in Africa, Europe, and Latin America, including direct flights to Lisbon, Johannesburg, and Rio de Janeiro.

- **Air France:** Provides flights between Luanda and Paris, connecting Angola to Europe and beyond.

- **Emirates:** Operates flights from Luanda to Dubai, with onward connections to the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas.

- **South African Airways:** Offers flights from Luanda to Johannesburg, with connections to other African destinations and international flights.

- **Turkish Airlines:** Provides flights between Luanda and Istanbul, connecting Angola to Europe, Asia, and North America.

In addition to international flights, TAAG Angola Airlines and other regional carriers offer domestic flights connecting Luanda with other major cities and tourist destinations within Angola.