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How to Get to Luanda

How to Get to Luanda

Luanda Angola Travel Guide

Air Travel to Luanda

Airports & Airlines

Luanda has two major airports. Confirm which airport your flight uses, especially during the transition period to the new Dr. Agostinho Neto International Airport.

Airport Details

  • Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD): Current main international airport.
  • Dr. Agostinho Neto International Airport (AIA): New airport, expected to take over passenger operations in 2024.
  • Airlines: TAAG Angola Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, South African Airways, Turkish Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Kenya Airways.

Flight Routes & Prices

Direct flights from major global hubs are available. Flight prices fluctuate with demand, notably during peak travel seasons.

Information

  • Direct Flights: From Lisbon, Dubai, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, São Paulo, Istanbul.
  • Price Fluctuations: Higher prices during dry season (May-Sep) and major holidays. Dollar Flight Club (Dollar Flight Club) or Skyscanner for deals.
  • Airport Facilities: LAD has fundamental services; AIA expects modern, expanded facilities.

Airline Diversity

Multiple international carriers connect Luanda to major global hubs, making access from various continents possible.

Timing Your Flight

Consider off-peak seasons for potentially lower fares and fewer crowds, balancing weather preferences with cost considerations.

Airport Transfers

Taxis are available; pre-negotiate fares. Accommodation shuttles or private transfers offer organized, secure options, especially for first-time visitors.

Transfer Options from Airports

Local Transfers

  • Taxis: Readily available outside both airports. Pre-negotiate the fare before starting.
  • Ride-sharing: Use an app like Bolt if available at the airport for transparent pricing.
  • Hotel Transport: Many upscale hotels offer pre-arranged airport transfer services. Confirm upon booking.
  • Private Transfers: Book in advance through tour operators or travel agencies for convenience and security.

Logistical Notes

  • Always confirm which airport your flight uses, especially during transition periods.
  • Traffic in Luanda can be heavy; plan your journey time to the airport generously.
  • Have local currency (Kwanza) for taxi fares if not pre-paid.
  • Consider arrival time, as late-night arrivals benefit from pre-booked transfers.

Airport Facilities

Quatro de Fevereiro LAD

Basic facilities: currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, limited restaurants/cafes. Car rental desks available. Wi-Fi might be limited.

Dr. Agostinho Neto AIA

New airport will offer modern, expanded facilities: wider range of dining, shopping, passenger services, improved connectivity.

General Advice

Always confirm specific airport and the terminal for your flight. Allow ample time for airport processes, which sometimes take longer than expected.

Land Transportation to Luanda

Border Crossings

Land transportation into Luanda from neighboring countries mostly caters to regional travel and freight. It is generally not recommended for international tourist arrivals due to various complexities.

Crossing Details

  • Borders: Angola shares land borders with Namibia, DRC, and Zambia.
  • Procedures: Lengthy and intricate, often needing pre-arranged visas for all countries.
  • Recommendation: Not typically designed for international tourist entry and challenging due to varying regulations.

Train & Bus Options

Angola has limited railway and bus transportation systems for inter-city travel, but they are not the preferred choice for international tourists to Luanda.

Travel Notes

  • Trains: Limited network, mainly cargo. No direct international passenger service for Luanda.
  • Long-distance Buses: Connect Luanda to other Angolan cities (e.g., Benguela, Huambo) by companies like Macon, SGO.
  • Recommendation: Using buses for international entry is not recommended due to border complexities and lengthy travel.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving from neighboring countries has significant challenges for tourists.

Challenges

  • Complexities: Navigating intricate border procedures and varying road conditions.
  • Security Concerns: Includes potential for carjacking.
  • Regulations: Vehicle import regulations are intricate.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions outside Luanda vary significantly. Road safety is a concern due to driving practices and vehicle maintenance.

Safety Notes

  • Conditions: Many roads unpaved or poorly maintained. Main Luanda roads are paved but have heavy traffic.
  • Risks: Aggressive driving, poorly maintained vehicles, livestock on country roads.
  • Recommendation: Rely on drivers from the region or pre-arranged transport for safety.

Land Travel Warning

  • International tourist travel via land crossings into Luanda is generally not recommended.
  • Air travel is the most practical and secure option for tourists.
  • Prioritize safety and efficiency when planning your arrival.
  • Hiring a local driver or using pre-arranged transport is safer than self-driving.
  • Border procedures for vehicles and individuals can be challenging.
  • Be aware of varying road conditions and reckless driving.

Sea and River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Options

Luanda is a significant port city with considerable commercial shipping. International passenger arrivals by sea are less common for mainstream travel.

Sea Travel Notes

  • Ferry Services: Regular international passenger ferry services are not common.
  • Cruise Ports: Cruise ships occasionally include Luanda as a port of call on African itineraries, docking at the Port of Luanda.
  • Experience: Cruise visits offer a unique way to experience the city for a short duration.

River Transportation

River transportation relevant to tourism in Luanda is limited. The Cuanza River south of Luanda sees some local boat traffic.

River Travel Notes

  • Local Traffic: Some local boat congestion on the Cuanza River.
  • Tourist Arrivals: Does not offer formal passenger services for tourist arrivals to the city from other regions or countries.
  • Mussulo Island: Small boats may take visitors to nearby islands like Mussulo, typically arranged via hotels or local operators.

Immigration for Sea

For cruise ship passengers, standard passport and visa requirements apply at the Port of Luanda, similar to air arrivals.

Port to City

Taxis are available from the Dock of Luanda to city accommodations. Cruise ship operators often offer shuttle services or excursions.

Pre-Booking Advice

If arriving by cruise ship, confirm all immigration and transportation details with your cruise line well in advance.

Departure Information from Luanda

Exit Fees & Procedures

Exit fees or taxes for air travel from Luanda are generally included in your air ticket price. You typically do not pay these separately at the airport.

Departure Timing

  • Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your international flight's scheduled departure.
  • This allows ample time for potential queues at check-in, security, and immigration.
  • Angola's airport processes sometimes take longer than expected.

Airport Facilities

Be aware of airport facilities for departing travelers.

Available Services

  • LAD Airport: Check-in counters, security, immigration, limited waiting areas, duty-free shops, cafes.
  • AIA Airport: Modern amenities, expanded dining, retail, nice waiting rooms, improved connectivity.
  • Expect improved facilities compared to LAD at the new airport.

Departure Reminders

Reconfirm Flight

Always reconfirm your flight status and terminal before heading to the airport.

Traffic Alert

Traffic in Luanda is heavy; generously plan your travel time to the airport.

Passport Ready

Have your passport and any necessary departure documents readily available.

Smooth Departure

Stay informed about airport transitions and local traffic conditions.