Visas. Nearly all nationalities need a visa to enter Angola. The country now offers an e-visa through the SME portal (smevisa.gov.ao), which takes five to seven business days to process. You will need a passport valid for at least nine months with two blank pages, proof of accommodation, and a return ticket. Tourist visas are valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days. The process has improved enormously in recent years, but allow extra time -- bureaucratic delays are still possible.
Money. The currency is the Angolan kwanza (AOA). As of early 2026, one US dollar buys roughly 900 kwanzas. US dollars are widely understood and sometimes accepted directly, but you will get better value paying in kwanzas. ATMs exist in Luanda and major cities but are unreliable -- they run out of cash, go offline, or reject foreign cards. Bring US dollars in good condition (no tears, no marks, post-2006 series) and exchange them at banks or authorized exchange houses. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at upscale hotels and some restaurants in Luanda, but Angola is still largely a cash economy outside the capital.
Costs. Angola is expensive, especially Luanda. A basic hotel room in the capital starts around $80 to $100 and a mid-range hotel easily costs $200 or more per night. A simple meal at a local restaurant runs $10 to $15; a pizza at an expat-oriented place costs $20 or more. Outside Luanda, prices drop noticeably -- accommodation in Benguela or Lubango can be half the Luanda rate, and eating at local spots is affordable. Budget travelers will find Angola challenging but not impossible if they stick to local food, guesthouses, and overland transport.
Language. Portuguese is the official language and the lingua franca of the cities. In rural areas, people speak Kimbundu, Umbundu, Kikongo, and other Bantu languages. English is not widely spoken -- even in Luanda, do not count on it at shops, restaurants, or government offices. A few phrases of Portuguese go a long way and will be warmly received. French is occasionally useful near the DRC border.
Safety. Angola is generally safer than its reputation suggests, but common sense applies. Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) is a risk in Luanda, especially around markets and the Marginal waterfront after dark. Do not display expensive electronics or jewelry. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Outside the capital, the main risks are poor road conditions and the occasional police checkpoint shakedown. Landmines from the civil war remain a concern in rural areas -- stick to well-traveled paths and paved roads in the countryside, and never walk off-trail in unfamiliar territory.
Health. Yellow fever vaccination is required, and you may be asked for your certificate on arrival. Malaria is a serious risk throughout the country, including in Luanda. Take prophylaxis, use insect repellent, and sleep under a net. Medical facilities are limited outside Luanda, and even in the capital they can be basic. Bring a good first-aid kit and any prescription medications you need. Medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended.
Communications. Mobile coverage is decent in cities and along major highways. Unitel and Movicel are the main operators. You can buy a SIM card at the airport or in town with your passport. Mobile data works in urban areas but can be slow. Wi-Fi is available at hotels in Luanda and larger cities but do not expect it to be fast or reliable.