Overview
Luanda is Angola's capital and Atlantic coast hub, undergoing a remarkable transformation since the 2002 end of its long civil war. Oil and diamond wealth funds constant construction, new six-lane highways, and the replacement of bullet-riddled tower blocks with social housing.
Architecture · History · Nightlife · Transit Hub
Before you go
Connectivity
International SIM cards may work but local providers offer better rates. WiFi is available at most hotels and some restaurants.
Culture
Portuguese colonial heritage is evident in architecture, cuisine, and beer culture. Super Bock, Sagres, and Cristal beers from Portugal are widely available alongside local Cuca and Nocal.
Money
Angola's currency is the kwanza (Kz). Luanda is an expensive city for accommodation and imported goods. When leaving the country, you cannot legally take more than 50,000 kwanza; violations result in heavy fines or imprisonment.
Safety
Avoid slums, don't go out alone at night, keep car doors locked. Violent crime is mostly in poor areas; the colonial centre is safer. Police corruption is common—carry a photocopy of your passport, not the original.
Transport
Traffic congestion is severe throughout Luanda. Long-distance buses depart from the station on Avenida 21 de Janeiro, 10 km south of centre. Trains use Central/Bungo station 1 km north of centre.
Water
Do not drink tap water in Luanda. Use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth.