Top 10 Things To Do In Angola For An African Adventure

An image of the Miradouro da Lua in Angola, showcasing the country’s stunning natural beauty and cultural richness.

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 10 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

An image of Luanda’s landscapes, showcasing its natural breathtaking scenery

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 and coastal charm, a very traditional modern blend. In Luanda, every activity takes you in a way way either by strolling along the Marginal, visiting the Fortaleza de São Miguel or just soaking in the vibrant street life as every activity has the aim of immersing you in the city’s vibrant and very dynamic culture.

Best Time To Visit: Year-round, but the cooler months (May to September) offer more comfortable temperatures

2. Witness The Majesty Of Kalandula Falls

An image of the majestic Kalandula Falls, one of Angola’s most breathtaking attractions.

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.

Entry Fee: Nominal fee
Best Time To Visit: During or after the rainy season

3. Discover The Wilderness Of Kissama National Park

An image of the Kissama National Park with its diverse natural species and wildlife

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.

Entry Fee: Park fees apply
Best Time To Visit: Dry season (June to September) for optimal wildlife viewing

4. Relax On The Beaches Of Ilha De Mussulo

An image of a beach, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing and water sports.

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. 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.

Entry Fee: Boat ride fees apply
Best Time To Visit: Year-round

5. Explore The Historic City Of Benguela

An image of Benguela’s colonial-era buildings and charming streets.

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.

Entry Fee: Varies depending on the attraction
Best Time To Visit: Year-round

6. Experience The Breathtaking Views Of Tundavala Gap

An image of the dramatic cliffs of Tundavala Gap, offering panoramic views over Angola’s vast landscapes.

Photo: tim kubacki / Wikimedia Commons

Tundavala Gap is one of Angola’s most impressive natural wonders, and a much-visited destination for nature lovers and adventure people as such. 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 spectacular view of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and endless skies.

Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: Morning or evening for the best lighting and views

7. Uncover Ancient Rock Art At Tchitundo-Hulo

A close-up image of ancient rock paintings, showcasing Angola’s rich prehistoric heritage.

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.

Best Time To Visit: Dry season (May to September) for easier travel conditions

8. Marvel At The Moon-Like Landscapes Of Miradouro Da Lua

A stunning image of the Moon Viewpoint’s unique eroded cliffs, resembling a lunar landscape.

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.

Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: Sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic views

9. Experience The Unique Beauty Of The Namib Desert’s Sand Dunes

A breathtaking image of the golden dunes of the Namib Desert in Angola.

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.

Best Time To Visit: Cooler months (May to September) for a more comfortable visit

10. Indulge In Angola’s Rich Culinary Scene

A beautifully plated dish of Moamba de Galinha, one of Angola’s most famous traditional meals.

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.

Best Places To Try: Luanda’s waterfront restaurants, Benguela’s seafood markets, and local eateries throughout the country
Best Time To Visit: Angola’s food scene is vibrant year-round

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

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