ANGOLA
Africa’s Well-kept Secret
If you’re tired of tourist traps and humdrum itineraries, then a trip to Angola should spice things up. Although Angola covers a huge chunk of southwestern Africa, it somewhat feels invisible to so many of the continent’s visitors. But despite this, Angola’s countryside offers unique natural wonders worth exploring.
The beautiful Kalandula Falls is a sight to behold. Cascading dramatically over 100 meters in height and spanning nearly 400 meters in width, the falls are some of the largest in Africa. But that’s not all! The black rocks in Pungo Adongo are just as breathtaking. The rock formations seem to have been sculpted by the gods themselves.
Luanda, the capital of Angola, is an adventure unto itself. The city is a blend of colonial architecture and skyscrapers with the Atlantic providing a soothing backdrop. Here’s more detailed information on Angola.
Luanda, the capital of Angola, is an adventure unto itself. The city is a blend of colonial architecture and skyscrapers with the Atlantic providing a soothing backdrop. Here’s more detailed information on Angola.
History of Angola
Initially settled by San hunter-gatherers, Angola later fell under the dominion of powerful Bantu migrants such as Kongo and Ndongo Portuguese navigators arrived at the Kongo Kingdom in 1483. The Kongo ruler favored forging diplomatic relationships The Kongo king was an advocate of forging diplomatic ties. He even converted to Christianity to show his commitment.
However, the Portuguese and the Kongo kingdom disputed over trade, particularly the lucrative slave trade. This delayed their settlement in the region and only established a colony in Luanda in 1575. They then expanded their territory across the country through conflicts, notably with Queen Njinga Mbande of Ndongo.
However, the Portuguese and the Kongo kingdom disputed over trade, particularly the lucrative slave trade. This delayed their settlement in the region and only established a colony in Luanda in 1575. They then expanded their territory across the country through conflicts, notably with Queen Njinga Mbande of Ndongo.
By 1670, Portuguese expansion had stabilized, and Angola became a pivotal point in the transatlantic slave trade until its abolition in the late 19th century. By 1920, the Portuguese had consolidated their control, abolished local kingdoms, and imposed direct rule through chiefs and policemen.
Angola’s road to independence was a steep one marred with conflict and proxy wars. Anti-colonial sentiment led to the formation of movements like the MPLA, FNLA, and UNITA, each backed by different international allies.
The Portuguese coup of 1974 opened the door for Angola’s independence. The Portuguese declared Angola independent on November 11, 1975. They left the country without necessarily choosing a successor. The MPLA had Cuban support and immediately claimed power.
Backed by the United States, Zaïre and South Africa, the FNLA and UNITA created their own government. But it was crushed by MPLA in 1976. The proxy fighting set the country on a path of a civil war which went on for the next two decades before ending in 2002.
Angola’s road to independence was a steep one marred with conflict and proxy wars. Anti-colonial sentiment led to the formation of movements like the MPLA, FNLA, and UNITA, each backed by different international allies.
The Portuguese coup of 1974 opened the door for Angola’s independence. The Portuguese declared Angola independent on November 11, 1975. They left the country without necessarily choosing a successor. The MPLA had Cuban support and immediately claimed power.
Backed by the United States, Zaïre and South Africa, the FNLA and UNITA created their own government. But it was crushed by MPLA in 1976. The proxy fighting set the country on a path of a civil war which went on for the next two decades before ending in 2002.
Capital of Angola
The capital of Angola is Luanda. It is a city of captivating contrasts. Luanda, perched next to the dazzling Atlantic, is a city that skillfully combines the ancient and the futuristic. Skyscrapers rise beside colonial-era buildings, creating a skyline that tells a story of progress and heritage. The city’s vibrant street markets buzz with energy, offering everything from colorful fabrics to tantalizing street food.
Strolling along the Avenida Marginal Sul, Luanda’s waterfront promenade, you’ll encounter locals and visitors enjoying the ocean breeze. Despite its urban hustle, Luanda retains a laid-back charm, making it a unique and intriguing gateway to the other wonders of Angola.
Strolling along the Avenida Marginal Sul, Luanda’s waterfront promenade, you’ll encounter locals and visitors enjoying the ocean breeze. Despite its urban hustle, Luanda retains a laid-back charm, making it a unique and intriguing gateway to the other wonders of Angola.
Language in Angola
Portuguese is the official language of Angola. However, there are 46 other languages spoken across the country, many primarily belonging to the Bantu. Among these, Umbundu, Kimbundu, and Kikongo are the most widely spoken indigenous languages.
Currency in Angola
The official currency in the country is the Angolan Kwanza (AOA). Currently, $1 equates to around 867 AOA. Most of the local shops, markets, restaurants, and local operators transact in AOA. However, a select few high-end hotels accept USD for transactions.
itinerary
- Arrive at Quatro de Fevereiro Luanda International Airport
- Meet our Discover ME Representative
- Discover ME Partner Driver will pick you and drive you to the Hotel
- Discover ME will host our daily group dinner at the Hotel
Embark on an exciting journey in the Capital of Angola and discover Luanda through its nature, history, and infrastructure. Explore the diversity of the city traveling from the Craft Market to its business district and get more insight on the historical events that shaped the city.
Places to see:
Places to see:
- Benfica Craft Market
- Slave Museum
- São Paulo Market
- Iron Palace
- Fortress of São Miguel
- Iron Palace
- 4th of February Avenue
- Ilha de Luanda
- Cidade Alta
Become one with Nature at the National Kissama Park and spot some of the wild animals found in the Angolan fauna in an exciting Safari Truck.
Things you will Experience.
Things you will Experience.
- Boat ride of Kwanza River
- Lunch at Chilala Floating Restaurant
- Moon Viewpoint
Immerse into the street arts bringing new colors to the city of Luanda. Visit galleries and enrich your knowledge of modern Angolan art at the Art and Culture foundation.
Things to do
Things to do
- Short walking tour on Graffiti Street
- Visit of Galleries
- Interactive moment at the art and culture Foundation
Share special moments with the locals of the Cabonda village, passing by the church of Maxima, a special religious sight where many Catholic Angolans do pilgrimage.
Things to do
Things to do
- Visit the Maxima Fort and church
- Boat ride of the Kwanza River
- Interactive moments with Cabonda village locals
Discover ME Partner driver will be ready to drive you to the Airport-please be on time or you will have to make personal arrangements for your airport transportation.
