Eastern Angola Travel Guide

Discover the culture, natural beauty, food scene, and transportation options of Eastern Angola with this in-depth travel guide.


Introduction to Eastern Angola

Located in Central Africa, Eastern Angola is a region offering a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure activities. Its diverse landscapes range from savannahs and highland plateaus to lush forests and dense woodlands, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor exploration. This guide will highlight the must-visit destinations, popular activities, local food, accommodations, and transportation options in Eastern Angola.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Angola

Eastern Angola is home to many cultural and natural attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The National Museum of Angola: Located in the capital city, Luanda, the museum has a collection of over 12,000 artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history, culture, and traditional customs of Angola.

  2. Kalandula Falls: One of the largest waterfalls in Africa, Kalandula Falls presents a breathtaking natural wonder. The 104-meter-high waterfall is surrounded by scenic views of the Kalandula River and the forests.

  3. Cangandala National Park: This protected area is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species and the giant sable antelope. Visitors can go on game drives and bush walks to explore the park’s unique ecosystem.

  4. The Ruins of the Presidio of Quela: These ruins date back to the 17th century and were a key trading post for the Portuguese. The site is now being restored to attract tourists and promote the cultural heritage of Angola.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Angola: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Moco: At over 2,620 meters, Mount Moco is the highest peak in Angola. Hikers can explore its beautiful landscapes, flora, and fauna as they scale to the peak’s top.

  2. Cameia National Park: Known for its rugged terrain and impressive natural beauty, this park has diverse wildlife such as elephants, lions, and cheetahs. Visitors can witness the vast landscape of the park with a range of activities, including camping, hiking, and photography.

  3. The Okavango Delta: In the northern part of the Eastern Angola bordering Zambia, the Okavango Delta is a unique ecosystem that’s home to hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and various bird species. Visitors can take a boat tour and explore the delta in a close-up encounter with nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Angola

Eastern Angola boasts many outstanding hiking and biking trails that offer a range of experiences for adventurers. Some of the top routes include:

  1. Mount Moco Trail: This scenic trail is a challenging hike to the highest peak in Angola. The route features stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife.

  2. Kalandula Falls Trail: This route takes hikers through the stunning landscapes of the Kalandula River and leads to the top of the impressive Kalandula Falls for a scenic view.

  3. Mucondo Trail: Located in the Cangandala National Park, this hiking trail offers a unique experience of exploring the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

  4. Lobito-Catumbela Cycleway: This popular biking trail provides a beautiful view of the western coastline of Angola, stretching from the cities of Catumbela, Benguela, and Lobito.

Best Things to Do in Eastern Angola: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and outdoor exploration, Eastern Angola offers a range of activities, including:

  1. Fishing: The region has numerous rivers and streams, making it an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can try out fishing at the Cunene River, where they can catch various species of tilapia, tigerfish, and mackerel.

  2. Cultural Tours: From visiting the National Museum of Angola to the historical Quela ruins, Eastern Angola is rich in cultural heritage. Tourists can choose from various cultural tours to learn about the region’s history, traditions, and customs.

  3. Wildlife and Game Viewing: Eastern Angola is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, from elephants and lions to antelopes and giraffes. Visitors can go on a game drive, bushwalk, or safari to witness these animals in their natural habitat.

  4. Local Festivals: Angola is known for its vibrant cultural celebrations, and Easter Angola is no exception. Visitors can participate in various traditional festivals, such as the Ngola Rituals, a famous tribal ceremony.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Angola

For travelers who want to explore Eastern Angola in-depth, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities Where to Stay
Day 1 Arrival in Luanda Hotel President
Day 2 Visit the National Museum of Angola Hotel President
Day 3 Hike to Mount Moco Camping at the base of the mountain
Day 4 Explore the Cangandala National Park Guesthouse in Malanje
Day 5 Visit the Kalandula Falls Hotel in Dundo
Day 6 Go on a game drive in the Cameia National Park Guesthouse in Luena
Day 7 Departure from Eastern Angola NA

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Angola

Angolan cuisine is rooted in traditional African and European influences, with a wide variety of dishes and beverages unique to the country. Here are some must-try dishes and local drinks in Eastern Angola:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Calulu: A traditional Angolan stew made of fish, meat, or chicken and served with cassava leaves, rice, beans, and vegetables.

  2. Feijão de Txunga: A popular dish made of beans, rice, meat, and garlic.

  3. Muamba de Galinha: A chicken stew cooked with palm oil, okra, and onion.

Local Beverages

  1. Cuca: A popular Angolan beer that comes in two flavors, Pilsen and Black.

  2. Banana Beer: A unique alcoholic beverage made of banana juice and fermented maize.

  3. Pombe: A traditional local beer made of sorghum or millet.

Where to Stay in Eastern Angola: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Angola has many accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the top options:

  1. Skyna Hotel Luanda: A high-end hotel with comfortable rooms and world-class service, located in the heart of the capital city.

  2. Dundo Marriott Hotel: A mid-range hotel with modern amenities, located close to the Kalandula falls.

  3. Residencial Gifa: A budget-friendly guesthouse with basic amenities, located in Malanje town.

What to Buy in Eastern Angola: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When heading back from Eastern Angola, don’t forget to bring along some souvenirs and local products. Here are some suggestions for what to buy in Eastern Angola:

  1. Woven Baskets and Bags: Made of locally sourced materials, these handmade baskets and bags are a great souvenir to bring back home.

  2. Traditional Cloth: Known as the capulana, this cloth is popular in Angola and comes in various designs and colors.

  3. Handmade Jewelry: Made of materials like wood, bone, and gold, these unique pieces of jewelry represent the Angolan culture and traditions.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Angola

Angolan culture is diverse and deeply rooted in local traditions and customs. Visitors are expected to respect cultural norms while visiting the region. Here are some cultural practices to know:

  1. Greeting: Greetings are essential in Angola, and most people offer a handshake or hug when meeting someone. It’s also customary to address someone formally, using their title or position.

  2. Rituals: Angolan tribes practice various traditional rituals, such as the Ngola Rituals. Visitors are expected to respect and observe these practices when participating.

  3. Dress Code: Angola is a conservative society, and visitors are advised to dress modestly in public places.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Angola

The best time to visit Eastern Angola is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is favorable for outdoor activities, and the wildlife is more accessible during this season. However, be prepared for high temperatures during the day.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Angola

Do:

  1. Learn some Portuguese phrases: Portuguese is the official language of Angola, and speaking a few phrases can help in communicating with the locals.

  2. Carry cash: Angola is a cash-based society, and most places do not accept credit cards. It’s advisable to carry cash in case of any emergencies.

  3. Respect the culture: Angola has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are expected to respect and observe cultural practices and norms.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t take pictures without permission: It’s considered rude to take pictures of locals without their consent. Always ask for permission before taking photos.

  2. Don’t buy wildlife products: Angola has strict wildlife conservation laws, and buying products made from wildlife is illegal and punishable by law.

  3. Don’t engage in illegal activities: Angola has strict regulations on drugs, and engaging in illegal activities can lead to severe penalties.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Angola

Eastern Angola has some safety concerns, mainly due to the ongoing political tensions and security threats in the country. Visitors are advised to check travel advisories and avoid traveling to areas with violence. It’s also advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to watch out for pickpockets and petty theft.

Health in Eastern Angola

Travelers should take precautions to avoid contracting tropical diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and cholera. It’s recommended to get relevant vaccines before traveling to Eastern Angola and carry protective gear such as mosquito nets and insect repellents.

Getting to Eastern Angola: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Angola

The closest international airport to Eastern Angola is the Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport in Luanda. There are also local airstrips located in various towns and cities in Eastern Angola.

Bus Stations Near Eastern Angola

The main bus terminal in Eastern Angola is located in the capital city of Luanda. There are also several other bus stations located in major towns and cities in the region.

Other Options

Travelers can also opt for private car hire or taxi services to move around Eastern Angola. However, this option can be costly and requires prior arrangements.

How to Get Around in Eastern Angola

The best way to get around Eastern Angola is by car or taxi. Bus services are available but can be unreliable, and there are limited options for public transport in remote areas. Visitors are advised to hire a car with a driver or rent a car and drive themselves if they have experience driving on rough terrain.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Angola: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

When leaving Eastern Angola, travelers can choose from various destinations and excursions, including:

  1. Namibia: Located to the south of Angola, Namibia offers a range of attractions such as the Etosha National Park and the Skeleton Coast.

  2. Zambia: To the east of Angola, Zambia has a diverse range of wildlife species and natural wonders, including Victoria Falls and the Lower Zambezi National Park.

  3. The Democratic Republic of Congo: Located to the north of Angola, the DRC offers a range of cultural and natural attractions, including gorilla trekking, the Congo River, and the Kahuzi-Biega National Park.

Conclusion

Eastern Angola is a unique travel destination, offering a blend of culture, nature, and adventure. With a range of activities, attractions, and must-try dishes, travelers are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Remember to respect the local culture and customs, take safety precautions, and plan ahead for transportation and accommodation. With this guide, you’re ready to embark on a journey of discovery in Eastern Angola.