Angola

Electricity

The electrical current in Angola is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are in use.

Language

The official language of Angola is Portuguese. Multiple other African languages are spoken including Umbundu and Chokwe. Some French is also spoken.

Money

The official currency of Angola is the Kwanza (AOA), though US dollars are also widely accepted, particularly in Luanda. While credit cards are becoming more commonly accepted in higher-end hotels and restaurants, they're still limited, and some businesses may not take them. There have been reports of credit card cloning, so it's important to exercise caution when using cards. The number of ATMs has increased in major cities such as Luanda, but they're not always stocked with cash, so it's wise for travellers to carry enough cash for their needs. Before travelling, visitors should check with their card issuers about acceptance and security, and plan to bring sufficient cash for their stay.

Tipping

If a service charge is not included in the bill, a tip of 10 percent is acceptable, though tipping is not officially encouraged in Angola.

Health

Travellers to Angola coming from a country with yellow fever will need proof of vaccination for entry. Other vaccinations, such as hepatitis A and B, polio, and rabies, are also recommended as these diseases are common in the country. Malaria is widespread, particularly in rural areas.

Medical care outside of Luanda is basic, so visitors should take extra precautions. Tap water is unsafe to drink, so it's important to drink bottled or treated water. Ice cubes in drinks should also be avoided, and caution should be taken with street food. It's advised to skip unpeeled or unwashed fruits and vegetables and to be wary of milk and dairy products, as they may be unpasteurised.

Taking malaria prevention medication is highly recommended, and comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation, is essential in case travellers need to be flown out for treatment.

Safety

Many governments warn against non-essential travel to parts of Angola because of safety concerns. However, travellers who stay cautious and travel in groups will usually have fewer problems. It's best to avoid travelling after dark, especially in Luanda, due to risks such as muggings and car-jackings. Some areas, such as Lunda Sul and Lunda Norte, can be more dangerous because of military actions related to illegal immigration and diamond prospecting. Cabinda has also seen incidents of kidnappings and attacks on foreigners. Visitors should also be aware of poverty, disease, poor infrastructure, and the presence of unexploded ordnance in some places. There have been reports of scams at the airport, where officials may try to extort money if visitors don't have a yellow fever vaccination card.

Local customs

In Angola, it's best to avoid taking photos of government buildings or using binoculars near them, as this can raise suspicion with local authorities. While homosexuality is legal, it's still not widely accepted in many areas, and visitors should be mindful of local attitudes.

To make a positive impression, a friendly handshake with eye contact is the norm, and addressing elders with respect is important. Dressing neatly is appreciated, especially in cities such as Luanda. A simple 'Bom dia' (Good day) or 'Obrigado/a' (Thank you) can go a long way in building rapport. Showing interest in local culture will help create positive connections with the locals.

Doing business

Oil is Angola's main industry, with diamond mining also playing a significant role in the economy. Building personal, face-to-face relationships is crucial in business, as trust is highly valued. For visitors who don't speak Portuguese, hiring a professional translator is often necessary to navigate business meetings and ensure clear communication. Business attire is generally casual, and ties are not necessary for men. Office hours are Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 6.30pm with a lunch break around 12.30pm, though many businesses close early on Fridays, and some offices open on Saturday mornings from 8.30am.

Duty free

Travellers over the age of 18 can bring a few items into Angola without paying customs duty. These include up to 400 cigarettes or 500 grams of tobacco, 2 litres of wine or 1 litre of spirits, 250 ml of eau de toilette or 50 ml of perfume, and gifts or souvenirs worth up to about US$500.

Some things are banned or restricted, such as firearms, ammunition, explosives, certain medicines or food, pornographic material, plants from infected areas, gaming machines, strong industrial alcohol, and animals without the right certificates.

Communications

Angola's international dialling code is +244. Mobile phones are far more common than landlines, and mobile coverage is generally reliable in Luanda and other major towns. In more remote areas, service can be limited. Most major hotels offer internet access, though speeds and reliability can vary depending on location.

Passport & Visa

A valid passport and visa are required for travel to Angola. Visas generally must be obtained in advance through an Angolan embassy, consulate, or as a pre-approved e-Visa. Visas on arrival are only available to travellers from certain countries and under specific conditions. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if travellers are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever. Travellers without this certificate may be required to receive a vaccination at the airport or could be denied entry. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

Entry requirements

US citizens require a passport but can stay in the country without a visa for up to 30 days per visit, with a limit of three visits per year.

UK citizens require a passport but can stay in the country without a visa for up to 30 days per visit, with a limit of three visits per year.

Canadians require a passport but can stay in the country without a visa for up to 30 days per visit, with a limit of three visits per year.

Australians require a passport but can stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days.

South African nationals require a passport but do not need a visa for tourist visits.

Irish citizens require a passport but can stay in the country without a visa for up to 30 days per visit, with a limit of three visits per year.

New Zealand nationals require a passport but can stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days.

Useful contacts

National Tourist Agency, Luanda: +244 222 372 750.

113 (Police); 112 (Ambulance); 115 (Fire).