Traveling to Luanda, the capital city of Angola, can be a great experience if you know the right tips and tricks. Here are some essential travel tips to help you make the most of your time in this bustling city.
- Be sure to have plenty of cash on hand. The official currency in Angola is the kwanza, but US dollars are widely accepted.
- Be sure to bring your passport and visa. You will need to present these documents at the airport upon arrival.
- It is important to be aware of the local culture and customs. It is best to dress conservatively, avoid public displays of affection, and be respectful of the local people.
- Be careful with your possessions. Luanda is known for having high levels of crime, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables safe.
- Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent. The sun in Luanda can be very strong, and mosquitos can be quite a nuisance.
Now that you know some basic tips for traveling to Luanda, let’s explore some of the wonderful sites and monuments you can visit during your stay. Here is a list of 20 sites and monuments to visit with a description of a few sentences for each:
- Fortaleza de São Miguel: This 17th-century fort is the oldest Portuguese fort in Angola. It was built to protect the city from attacks. Admission is free.
- The National Museum of Slavery: This museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of the slave trade in Angola. Admission is free.
- Palácio de Ferro: This iconic building is the official residence of the President of Angola. Admission is free.
- The Monument to the Unknown Soldier: This monument serves as a tribute to the Angolan soldiers who died during the civil war. Admission is free.
- The National Library of Angola: This library is one of the largest in all of Africa. Admission is free.
- The Central Market: This popular market is a great place to find souvenirs and traditional Angolan crafts. Admission is free.
- The National Bank of Angola: This building is the headquarters of the central bank of Angola. Admission is free.
- The Cathedral of Luanda: This stunning cathedral is one of the most beautiful in all of Africa. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Pedro da Barra: This fortification is one of the oldest in the city. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Paulo da Assunção: This fortress was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São João Baptista: This fortification served as a military base for the Portuguese. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Francisco Xavier: This fortification dates back to the 16th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Lourenço de Taveleiros: This fortification was built in the 17th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Salvador da Barra: This fortification was built in the 16th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Filipe: This fortification was built in the 18th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Jorge da Mina: This fortification was built in the 17th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Tomé: This fortification was built in the 16th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São João da Barra: This fortification was built in the 16th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São Pedro da Barra: This fortification was built in the 17th century. Admission is free.
- The Fortress of São João da Barra: This fortification was built in the 18th century. Admission is free.
Now that you have a list of sites and monuments to visit, let’s plan a three-day itinerary for your time in Luanda.
Day 1: Start your day off by exploring the National Museum of Slavery. Then, head over to the Central Market to find souvenirs and traditional Angolan crafts. After that, visit the Fortress of São Miguel, the oldest Portuguese fort in Angola. End the day with a visit to the Monument to the Unknown Soldier.
Day 2: Spend the day exploring the city. Visit the National Bank of Angola, the Cathedral of Luanda, and the Palácio de Ferro. Then, take a walk around the city and explore the many shops and restaurants.
Day 3: Spend your last day exploring the Fortresses of São Lourenço de Taveleiros and São João Baptista. Then, visit the National Library of Angola and the Fortress of São Filipe. End your day with a tour of the Fortress of São Tomé.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Luanda, make sure to take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. With these tips, you’re sure to have a great time in Luanda!