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Things to do in Angola include exploring stunning waterfalls, relaxing on pristine beaches, and embarking on thrilling safaris in vast wildlife reserves. This diverse country offers rich historical sites, from colonial-era landmarks to UNESCO-listed heritage sites, perfect for history enthusiasts. Nature lovers can hike breathtaking landscapes like Tundavala Gap, while adventure seekers can discover hidden gems like Pedras Negras. Whether you’re drawn to Angola’s vibrant culture, untouched natural beauty, or bustling cities like Luanda, this destination offers a unique mix of tradition and modernity, making it an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Angola is a must-visit African gem!
Top 14 Things To Do In Angola
From breathtaking waterfalls to rich culture and stunning coastlines, experience the magic of adventure, history, and nature with these things to do in Angola.
1. Explore Luanda’s Urban Vibrancy
Photo: Jorge Sá Pinheiro / Unsplash
The capital city, Luanda, is a perfect place to start your Angolan adventure. The city came to be renowned for its lively atmosphere, bustling markets, coastal charm, and vibrant nightlife in Angola—a very traditional modern blend. In Luanda, every activity takes you on a unique journey, whether by strolling along the Marginal, visiting the Fortaleza de São Miguel, or just soaking in the vibrant street life, as every experience aims to immerse you in the city’s dynamic and colorful culture.
Location: Luanda (Capital City of Angola)
Major Attractions: Fortaleza de São Miguel, Marginal de Luanda, National Museum of Anthropology, Mausoleum of Agostinho Neto, Ilha do Cabo nightlife and restaurants
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Luanda
2. Witness The Majesty Of Kalandula Falls
Photo: Paulo César Santos / Wikimedia Commons
Kalandula Falls is a roughly a day trip from Luanda and is an exotic natural wonder. The falls are ideal for nature lovers because the cascading water is impressive and the backdrop is lush. At the falls itself, we’ve witnessed the sheer power and beauty of it all, making it a great trip all in all. The Kalandula road trip is one of the most incredible road trips of all time because it includes experiences like breathtaking scenic views, rural cultures as well as savannahs.
Location: Malanje Province
Major Attractions: Kalandula Falls, Lucala River viewpoints, Pedras Negras de Pungo Andongo, scenic photography spots and hiking trails
3. Discover The Wilderness Of Kissama National Park
Photo: Eden Constantino / Unsplash
People who love wildlife and appreciate the outdoors equally will love Kissama National Park, located just south of Luanda. The electrifying park is full of savannahs and ruderal which contains different species of animals like elephants, ram antelopes, zebras, and lots of exotic birds. A Kissama safari provides an amazing chance to see magnificent animals in their natural unspoiled setting, away from the congested commercialised reserves.
Location: Bengo Province
Major Attractions: Wildlife safaris, river cruises on the Kwanza River, birdwatching and lush vegetation
Suggested Read: Luanda Travel Guide
4. Relax On The Beaches Of Ilha De Mussulo
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
While it might not be as tropical as the saying suggests, Ilha de Mussulo serves as the westward escape perfect for tranquility seekers and is a must-visit in any Angola travel guide. This breathtaking island is a few minutes away by boat from Luanda and has an inviting atmosphere with its pristine oceanic waters, white powdery beaches, and friendly locals. Beachside restaurants serving the freshest seafood dishes offer stunning views of the ocean which makes for the perfect refreshing meal.
Location: Just off the coast of Luanda
Major Attractions: Palm-fringed sandy beaches, water sports like kayaking and jet-skiing
5. Explore The Historic City Of Benguela
Photo: F H Mira / Wikimedia Commons
Benguela is a historically significant city in Angola, known for its relaxed atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and coastal beauty. The city is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning beaches. Visitors can explore the old town, visit the São Felipe Fortress, admire historical landmarks, and discover local art galleries. Benguela’s scenic coastline offers opportunities for leisurely strolls, boat rides, and dining at waterfront restaurants specialising in fresh seafood.
Location: Benguela Province (southwest Angola)
Major Attractions: Colonial Portuguese architecture, Igreja da Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, Praia Morena beach, Benguela Railway Museum
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Luanda And Its Surroundings For A Coastal Vibe
6. Experience The Breathtaking Views Of Tundavala Gap
Photo: tim kubacki / Wikimedia Commons
Tundavala Gap is one of Angola’s most impressive natural wonders and a must-see among the top places to visit in Angola for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Formed near the city of Lubango in the province of Huíla, this geological wonder consists of towering cliffs that drop dramatically towards the vast plains at their feet, resulting in a spectacular view. The viewpoint is located at an altitude of over 2,200 metres and offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and endless skies, making it one of the most outstanding places to visit in Angola.
Location: Near Lubango, Huíla Province
Major Attractions: Tundavala Gap, hiking trails, panoramic photography opportunities
7. Uncover Ancient Rock Art At Tchitundo-Hulo
Photo: Clemens Schmillen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tchitundo-Hulo is a must-visit for history and archaeology enthusiasts. Located in Angola’s Namibe Province, this site features some of the country’s oldest known prehistoric rock art, dating back thousands of years. The engravings and paintings, created by early inhabitants of the region, provide valuable insight into ancient civilizations, their beliefs, and way of life. These rock formations serve as an important cultural and historical record, offering a glimpse into Angola’s deep-rooted past and the artistic expressions of its early communities.
Location: Namibe Province, near Virei town
Major Attractions: Prehistoric rock carvings, petroglyphs, cultural insights into ancient Angolan civilisations
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit Near South Africa
8. Marvel At The Moon-Like Landscapes Of Miradouro Da Lua
Photo: Paulo César Santos / Wikimedia Commons
Miradouro da Lua, or the “Moon Viewpoint,” is a stunning natural attraction located just outside Luanda. Shaped by millennia of erosion, this otherworldly landscape features deep valleys and jagged cliffs that resemble the surface of the moon. The striking contrast between the reddish and beige tones of the terrain creates a breathtaking, photogenic setting. A popular stop for travellers, Miradouro da Lua is especially captivating at sunrise or sunset and is often visited en route to the scenic beaches of Cabo Ledo.
Location: Near Barra do Cuanza, around 40 km south of Luanda
Major Attractions: Eroded cliffs resembling lunar landscapes, viewpoints and geological wonders
9. Experience The Unique Beauty Of The Namib Desert’s Sand Dunes
Photo: Luca Galuzzi / Wikimedia Commons
The Namib Desert, in the southernmost region of Angola, presents an almost virgin landscape, the Namib Desert, stretching into Angola’s southernmost regions. The Namib Desert is most commonly associated with Namibia, however, a part of it lies in the north of Angola’s Namibe province running along the Atlantic Ocean to make a dramatic contrast between the golden dunes and the shade of the ocean. There are guided tours for visitors to go and explore the desert, or enjoy fun things like sandboarding and off-road driving.
Location: Iona National Park, Namibe Province (southwestern Angola)
Major Attractions: Towering red sand dunes, rock formations, remote canyons, and eco-tourism experiences
Suggested Read: Nightlife In Luanda
10. Indulge In Angola’s Rich Culinary Scene
Photo: Fan Majie 範瑪姐 / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting Angola without experiencing its rich gastronomical diversity is like visiting London and missing the fish and chips. Angolan food is varied with bold spices, fresh ingredients, and hearty dishes heavily influenced by Portuguese, African, and indigenous traditions. Moamba de Galinha, a rich chicken stew of palm oil, garlic and okra, as well as fungi Zombie Fries, are one of the most-try delicacies. Calulu is a seafood dish made of dried fish, spinach, and aromatic spices.
Location: Across the country (notably in Luanda, Benguela, and Lubango)
Traditional Dishes: Muamba de Galinha, Calulu, Funge, fresh seafood along the coast
11. Dive Or Snorkel At Cabo Ledo
Photo: Alessandro Caproni / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Cabo Ledo, which is on Angola’s beautiful Atlantic coast, is a great place for people who love water sports and adventure. The beach is famous for its long stretches of golden sand, clear blue water, and steady waves, which make it a great place for surfing. There is a lot of marine life and environmental diversity in the water around Cabo Ledo. There are colourful fish, corals, and sometimes bigger sea creatures like turtles. There is a lot to do for both new and expert divers and snorkelers in the calm, warm water and around the beach are beautiful cliffs.
Location: Cabo Ledo, Luanda Province (about 120 km south of Luanda)
Major Attractions: Clear waters are perfect for diving, snorkelling, coral reefs and diverse marine life
Suggested Read: The Ultimate Guide To The Best Beaches In Angola
12. Walk The Streets Of Lubango
Photo: Edward Middleton / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best things to do in Angola is to explore Lubango. It is the beautiful capital of Huíla province in the southern part of Angola. Its lovely streets, rich colonial history, and busy markets are all open to tourists. Due to its high location, the city has a mild and pleasant temperature, and the city centre is small enough to be seen on foot. As you walk through Lubango, you can see Portuguese buildings from the early 20th century, stop by a local café, and see how people live in cities in Angola every day.
Location: Lubango, Huíla Province
Major Attractions: Colonial-era Portuguese architecture, lively public squares, Cathedral of Lubango and cultural landmarks
13. Climb To Christ The King Statue (Cristo Rei)
Photo: Manuel Torres Garcia / Pexels
As it stands tall on a prominent hill above the city, the Cristo Rei (Christ the King) statue is one of Lubango’s most famous sights. This 30-meter-tall white marble statue was built in 1957 and is based on Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer. It is among the top things to see in Angola. The hike up is both a physical and mental journey, and the view of Lubango’s landscape from the top is truly breathtaking. Photo enthusiasts love taking pictures from the platform about 2,130 meters above sea level.
Location: Lubango, Huíla Province
Major Attractions: Cristo Rei (Christ the King) statue, panoramic views, Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue
Suggested Read: Airports In Angola
14. Explore The Serra da Leba Road
Photo: Erik Cleves Kristensen / Wikimedia Commons
Wondering what to do in Angola? The Serra da Leba Road is a great option for exploration. It winds through the mountains near Lubango and is a stunning example of Angolan engineering and natural beauty. This road climbs steep hills and provides breathtaking views of the valleys and green slopes nearby. It is famous for its winding switchbacks and breathtaking views. For shooters, the most famous part, called the “Serra da Leba Pass,” is a great place to work, especially when it’s raining and the morning mists and clouds make the place feel magical.
Location: Near Lubango, Huíla Province
Major Attractions: Iconic winding mountain road, cliff views, Angola’s scenic drives, and spectacular viewpoints
Angola is a country of diverse and stunning beauty, offering a wide range of experiences for every traveller. Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant cityscapes, breathtaking natural wonders, or rich cultural heritage, Angola has something to offer. From dynamic urban centres to serene landscapes and historic landmarks, the country provides an unforgettable journey for adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Start planning your trip today with TripXL and immerse yourself in the captivating wonders of Angola.
Cover Photo: Jorge Sá Pinheiro / Unsplash
