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Angola is a former Portuguese colony with vast natural resources, including diamonds and oil. It was part of Congo before portuguese colonization. After 27 years of civil war, Angolan people are enjoying the fragile and unstable peace only since 2002.
Introduction
Angola is a former Portuguese colony with vast natural resources, including diamonds and oil. It was part of Congo before portuguese colonization. After 27 years of civil war, Angolan people are enjoying the fragile and unstable peace only since 2002.
Angola Location and size
Angola is located on the west coast of Africa with the Atlantic ocean to the west. Neighboring countries are Congo to the north, Democratic republic of Congo to the north and northeast, Zambia on the southeast and Namibia on the south. Angola covers an area of 1 246 700 square kilometers.
Angola Climate
Climate is as wonderful and variable as in most other African countries along the coast, from desert climate in the southern strip to the damp tropical climate in the north of the country. There is a dry and cool season from June to September and hot season with rains from October to May.
Angola Language
Portuguese is an official language of Angola, with Bantu and other African languages widespread.
Time
Angola operates 1 hour ahead of GMT throughout the year.
Money and Banks
The Angolan currency is new kwanza (AOA; 1 new kwanza = 100 lwei). No credit cards nor travelers cheques are accepted.
Passports and visas
All visitors to Angola must be in possession of a passport valid at least 3 months after entry. Visa applications can take up to few weeks to handle, but express issue service is available and takes seven days.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure in Angola was hardly damaged during the civil war. Traveling is generally very unreliable and uncomfortable. You can fly to Luanda airport from Paris, Brussels or Lisbon.
Angola Health
Visitors to Angola should always ensure that they have adequate medical insurance. Mostly you will have to pay cash for medical care in Angola, and claim for a reimbursement with your insurance company after return. Healthcare in Angola is disastrous. Malaria and other deadly diseases are widespread.
Sun
The African sun can be very harsh. Sun blocks, hats and sunglasses are essential during the summer months.
Angola Safety
Safety of Angola as a tourist destination has improved significantly since the end of civil wars in 2002, but continues to be a major problem. The risk of being robbed is very high, bus or train travel including. Generaly Angola is still extremely unsafe country with high crime rate and corruption.
Angola Driving
All visitors intending to drive require an international or national drivers permit. Ground bombs can be often found on or near roads.
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