Luanda Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards & Mobile

Unitel and Movicel are the main mobile network operators. Purchase local SIM cards at the airport or official stores. A passport is needed for registration.

Staying Connected

Recharge cards for calls, texts, and data are widely available.
Mobile data coverage in Luanda and major towns is good.
Consider Airalo.com for convenient eSIM solutions before arrival.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available in the majority of hotels, upscale restaurants, and shopping malls. Speed and reliability can vary.

Accessing the Internet

Expect varied Wi-Fi speeds; mobile data often serves as a backup.
Portable Wi-Fi devices from Soliswifi.co offer dedicated connectivity.
Postal services are present but can be slow for international mail.

Language Barriers & Resources

Portuguese is the official language. English is not widely spoken outside of major hotels, international businesses, and some tourist services.

Translation Tools

Google Translate is highly recommended for language assistance.
Download the Portuguese language pack for offline use before your trip.
Consider language learning with The Rosetta stone language program for basic phrases.

Essential Portuguese Phrases

Common Greetings & Courtesy

Olá (oh-LAH): Hello; Bom dia (bom DEE-ah): Good morning
Por favor (por fah-VOR): Please; Obrigado/Obrigada (Thank you)
Quanto custa? (KWAN-too KOOS-tah): How much does it cost?

Money & Banking

Banking Hours

Banks operate Monday to Friday, usually from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Public holidays will cause bank closures.
Confirm specific bank schedules, especially around national holidays.
International wire transfers may take longer.

ATM Access & Caution

ATMs are widely available in banks, shopping malls, plus large food stores.
Most ATMs are accessible 24/7.
Exercise caution, especially at night. Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations.
Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.

Communication Tip:

Purchase get a LOCAL sim card when you arrive. It is the most reliable way to stay connected for navigation and communication during your trip. Airalo.com can also furnish convenient electronic sim cards for many travelers.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Cultural understanding will enrich your dealings and experience in Luanda.

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common upon meeting and departing. Close friends may exchange a kiss on each cheek. Always offer a polite greeting.

Appropriate Attire

Angola is generally conservative. Modest dress shows respect, especially in public spaces, religious sites, and government buildings. Women cover shoulders and knees.

Dining & Tipping

Meals can be social and lengthy. Wait for everyone to be served. Tipping is appreciated for good service in upscale restaurants and hotels (refer to specific guides).

Photography Permissions

Always seek permission to photograph people. This shows respect and helps maintain privacy.

Guidelines for Photos

Avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, or police officers.
Be discreet when taking photos in public areas.
Anything perceived as sensitive should not be photographed.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Certain subjects warrant caution in conversation and public discourse.

Discussion Cues

Avoid discussing politics unless you are invited by a trusted local.
Do not openly criticize Angolan culture, government, or local practices.
Be mindful of economic disparities and avoid overtly flaunting wealth.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+

Social Norms

Angola is a conservative society.
Public displays of affection, especially between same-sex couples, are not widely accepted.
Travelers should use your judgment and be aware of local social norms.

Legal Landscape

LGBTQ+ rights in Angola are limited.
Homosexuality was decriminalized in 2021.
Staying informed about local laws and customs is valuable.

Cultural Courtesy:

Show respect by learning basic Portuguese greetings and using them often. A polite demeanor creates a positive impression.

Airport Services

Enhance your airport experience and address potential travel disruptions.

Airport Lounge Access

For frequent travelers, independent airport lounge access around the world elevates the waiting experience.

Priority Pass

Offers access to over 1300 airport lounges globally.
Enjoy comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and refreshments.
Ideal for layovers and early arrivals, making travel more pleasant.

Flight Delay Compensation

A service assists customers in receiving compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Compensair

Simplifies the process of claiming flight disruption compensation.
Applies to delays over 3 hours, cancellations, and denied boarding.
Helps recover funds you may be entitled to.

Accessibility Information

Luanda's infrastructure has challenges for travelers with mobility needs. Infrastructure generally is without accessibility features.

Navigating Challenges

Sidewalks are often uneven, broken, or non-existent.
Ramps are rare, and public buildings might not have lifts or accessible restrooms.
Public transportation is not accessible for wheelchairs.

Accessible Travel Solutions

Despite infrastructure challenges, solutions exist for mobility-challenged travelers.

Practical Approaches

Newer shopping malls and luxury hotels may deliver better accessibility.
Private car services are the most practical option; arrange adapted transport through tour operators.
Few specific services exist for visual or hearing impairments.