Angola is a vibrant Southern African nation offering dramatic landscapes from the lunar-like formations of Miradouro da Lua to pristine Atlantic beaches. Experience Portuguese-influenced colonial architecture in Luanda, explore wildlife in Kissama National Park, and discover Kalandula Falls, one of Africa's largest waterfalls.
Angola is a moderate-risk destination where urban crime in Luanda — particularly petty theft, mugging, and vehicle crime — is the primary concern for visitors. Travelers who stay aware, use reputable transportation, and follow standard urban safety practices generally have trouble-free experiences.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise increased caution due to crime in Luanda and other major cities. Be aware of ongoing cholera outbreaks in multiple provinces as of 2025. Landmine risk exists off established roads in former conflict areas.
Last updated: 2025-03
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 — Exercise Increased Caution
Crime, including armed robbery, carjacking, and theft, is common especially in Luanda. Travelers should exercise heightened caution particularly after dark.
High — Essential Travel Only in some provinces
Exercise caution throughout Angola. Avoid remote areas without experienced local guides due to landmine risk. Monitor health advisories for cholera and malaria.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings
Do not travel outside major cities after dark
Carry certified copies of passport and visa, not originals
Be aware of landmines outside major urban areas
Use reputable transportation services only
Avoid displaying valuables or large amounts of cash
Stay informed about cholera outbreak updates
Drink only bottled or purified water
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival — Angola has limited consular resources and registration ensures you can be contacted in emergencies.
Be respectful when photographing people or military installations — always ask permission before photographing individuals, and avoid photographing government buildings, police, or military personnel, as this can lead to detention.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Airport taxi overcharging
Unofficial taxi drivers at Quatro de Fevereiro Airport approach travelers and charge vastly inflated rates, sometimes 5-10x the fair price.
How to avoid: Pre-arrange airport transfer through hotel or book via Kubinga/Heetch app; agree all fares before departure
Currency exchange scam
Unofficial money changers on the street offer favorable rates but use sleight of hand to shortchange or give counterfeit notes.
How to avoid: Only exchange currency at bank branches or official Bureau de Change windows in shopping malls
Police bribery demands
Some lower-ranked police officers request informal payments from tourists during checkpoint stops or document checks.
How to avoid: Carry certified copies of your passport and visa. Remain calm, ask for a senior officer, and avoid making payments without a receipt
Fake goods as souvenirs
Some vendors at craft markets sell mass-produced imports as handmade Angolan crafts at premium prices.
How to avoid: Buy from the Mercado do Artesanato where artisans work on-site, and ask vendors to demonstrate how items are made
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio), Rabies (for extended stays or animal contact), Malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended
- Water
- Not safe to drink. Drink only bottled, boiled, or purified water. Avoid ice in drinks and raw vegetables unless washed in purified water. Cholera outbreak ongoing in multiple provinces as of 2025.
- Food
- Facilities
- Pharmacies available in major cities like Luanda, Benguela, and Lubango. Well-stocked pharmacies in shopping malls and upscale areas.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Solo travel is manageable in Luanda with proper precautions — use app-based taxis, stay in established areas, and avoid walking after dark. Angola is not a typical backpacker destination and infrastructure for solo budget travelers is limited. Joining organized tours for day trips outside Luanda is strongly recommended.
Female travellers
Female travelers should exercise additional caution, particularly after dark. Avoid walking alone at night, use Kubinga or Heetch exclusively, and dress modestly outside beach areas. The expat community in Luanda can provide support and local advice through community groups.
Families
Angola is manageable for families who stay in established tourist areas and luxury hotels with full amenities. Key precautions include malaria prophylaxis for all family members, strict bottled water use, and hiring private drivers for family day trips rather than using public transport. Medical evacuation insurance is essential.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Homosexuality is decriminalized in Angola (as of 2019) but LGBTQ+ rights are not recognized and public displays of affection between same-sex couples may provoke negative reactions. The country is socially conservative. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion and stay informed about local attitudes.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 113
- Medical
- 112
- Embassy
- Tourist Police