Getting Around: Angola

Public Transportation

Angola's public transportation system, notably in Luanda, differs from expectations for many international travelers.

No Metro or Tram System: Angola does not have an underground metro system or a tram network.

Buses & Candongueiros

Buses: Luanda has a public bus system. Route maps are not always readily available or easy for visitors to understand. Buses may get crowded.
Candongueiros: Most common local transport. Privately owned minibuses operate on fixed or semi-fixed routes. Informal, often crowded, frequent stops.
Ticketing: Fares for Candongueiros are paid directly to driver/conductor, usually in cash (AOA). Fares are very low.
Hours: Candongueiros operate throughout day and into early evening. Frequency is high on popular routes. Reduce significantly after dark.

Route Maps

Formal maps for Candongueiros are rare; routes are understood by locals.

Accessibility

Public transport is generally not accessible for travelers with mobility challenges.

Tips for Navigation

Ask locals for directions. Carry small denominations for fares. Secure valuables. Observe local usage first.

Safety Considerations for Public Transport

Candongueiro Safety

Overcrowding: Candongueiros may be overcrowded, impacting comfort and safety.
Driving Speed: Drivers may operate at high speeds.
Pickpocketing: A concern in crowded Candongueiros. Keep belongings secure.

Night Travel Caution

Reduced Options: Public transport options reduce significantly after dark.
Safety Concerns: Using public transport at night is generally not advisable due to safety reasons.
Alternative: Consider taxis or ride-sharing for night travel.

Daily Costs USD, approximate

Budget Traveler

$50 - $100 per day

Mid-Range Traveler

$150 - $300 per day

Luxury Traveler

$400+ per day

Local Meal

$5 - $15

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer more convenience and often better safety than public minibuses, especially in urban areas.

Licensed Taxis

Identification: Official taxis in Luanda are typically blue and white. Other cities may have different colors.
Hailing: Hail on the street or find at designated taxi ranks (hotels, shopping centers).
Negotiate Fare: Meters are rarely used. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Payment: Usually cash (AOA). Fares vary by distance, time of day, and traffic.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Availability: Apps like Heetch and Africell Taxi operate in Luanda and possibly other major cities.
Benefits: Offers transparent pricing (fares calculated in-app) and improved safety (tracking, driver info).
Reliance: Availability and reliability depend on network coverage and driver presence. Data on your phone is needed.
Pricing: May offer more transparent pricing than traditional street-hailed taxis.

Safety When Using Taxis/Apps

Official Taxis: Use only official, marked taxis. Avoid unmarked cars offering rides.
Sharing Taxis: Do not share taxis with strangers unless it is a designated shared-taxi route known to be safe.
Night Travel: Exercise extra caution at night. Confirm destination clearly. Avoid showing valuables.

Verify: Check driver information and vehicle details with ride-sharing apps before entering.
Stay Informed: Be aware of your route on a map, even if using an app.
Trust Instincts: If a situation feels unsafe, do not proceed with the ride.

Typical Taxi Fares USD, approximate

Short Ride Luanda

$5 - $15

Airport to City

$20 - $40 (negotiated)

Hourly Hire

Variable, negotiate with driver

Rental Options

Renting a vehicle offers maximum flexibility, but also carries responsibilities and challenges.

Car Rental Logistics

Availability: Services available at Luanda's airport and major cities. International and local operators exist.
Requirements: Valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Credit card for deposit.
Age: Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 25, depending on the company.
Vehicle Type: Consider renting a 4x4, especially for travel outside major cities or during the rainy season.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Side: Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants.
Speed Limits: Vary and are indicated by signage. Adhere to them.
Road Conditions: Vary from relatively good paved highways to very poor, potholed, or unpaved roads.

Other Rental Considerations

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common for tourists. Angolan roads are hazardous for two-wheelers.

Not generally recommended for general tourist travel.

Bicycle Rentals

Bicycle sharing programs are not available. Rentals are limited, mainly to some hotels or specialized tour operators.

Best done with a guide in specific rural or less congested areas.

Specialty Vehicles

Unique local transport types like tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not typically found.

No specialized local transport options.

Driving Safety Tips

Awareness on Roads

Driving Defensively: Essential due to varied driving habits and road hazards (pedestrians, livestock).
Night Driving: Not recommended due to poor lighting, potential hazards, and security risks.
Parking: Challenging and insecure. Use supervised lots where possible, especially overnight.

Navigation & Fuel

Navigation: GPS data may be unreliable or outdated. Consider downloading offline maps. Road signs may be infrequent.
Fuel: Available in major towns, but availability may be an issue in remote areas. Plan your fuel stops.
Traffic: Luanda experiences heavy traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.

Important Warnings for Self-Driving

Remote Roads: Incidents of banditry or carjacking have occurred on isolated roads, especially at night.
Vehicle Security: Keep car doors locked and windows up while driving.
Local Advice: Seek local advice from your accommodation or trusted guides about areas to avoid.
Documentation: Always have your IDP and national driver's license with you.

Potholes: Be prepared for sudden changes in road surface and large potholes.
Visibility: Poor visibility at night due to lack of streetlights outside major centers.
Rainy Season: Roads can become muddy and impassable during heavy rains.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Experience

Infrastructure: Pedestrian infrastructure (sidewalks, crosswalks) is often poor or non-existent in many urban areas.
Feasible Areas: Walking is feasible in specific areas like the Luanda Marginal (seafront promenade), within hotel compounds, or well-maintained commercial districts.
Caution: Exercise caution due to heavy traffic, uneven surfaces, and security concerns.
Walking Tours: Guided walking tours of specific historic areas in Luanda may be available through local tour operators.

Cycling Landscape

Infrastructure: Dedicated bicycle infrastructure (lanes, paths) is limited to non-existent in Angolan cities.
Road Hazards: Cycling on main roads is hazardous due to traffic conditions and lack of dedicated lanes.
Best Use: Best done with a guide in specific rural or less congested areas, or as part of organized cycling tours.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking or cycling in less populated areas, isolated streets, or at night. Steer clear of areas known for high crime rates.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour & Water Buses

Tour buses are not common for general city tourism. Organized tours use private vans/buses.

Boat taxis for coastal excursions (e.g., Luanda to Mussulo Island).
Limited use for general water transport.
No cable cars or funiculars.

Accessibility Services

Infrastructure generally not designed for accessibility.

Travelers with mobility needs may need specialized assistance.
Consider private transportation options.
Inquire with tour operators/hotels about their capabilities.

Local vs. Tourist Transit

Candongueiros are for locals. Taxis/apps offer more comfort/safety for tourists.

Walkable areas often have specific boundaries.
Cycling mostly for specific tours with guides.
Prioritize well-being over cost for urban transport.

Caution for Pedestrians/Cyclists

Safety Risks

Avoid walking or cycling in less populated areas or isolated streets.
Steer clear of areas known for high crime rates, even during the day.
Do not walk or cycle at night outside of secure, well-lit areas.

Infrastructure Deficiencies

Sidewalks and crosswalks are often poor or non-existent, creating pedestrian hazards.
Heavy traffic and varied driving habits pose significant risks for pedestrians and cyclists.
Uneven surfaces and poor maintenance on pedestrian paths.

Local Transport Summary

Choose your local transport based on your comfort, budget, and destination. Taxis and ride-sharing offer convenience in cities.

For unique local experiences, Candongueiros offer a glimpse into Angolan daily life, but with greater risks. Always prioritize your well-being.

Getting Around Angola