Pre-Trip Checklist: Angola

Essential Preparations

Organize your planning into a timeline for effective task management.

Planning Timeline

Detailed steps for your trip.

+ Months Out

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport valid 6+ months, sufficient blank pages. Begin visa application immediately; process takes time.

Health & Insurance

Consult travel health clinic for vaccinations (Yellow Fever mandatory). Discuss malaria prophylaxis. Purchase comprehensive Travel health insurance.

Initial Research

Research entry requirements and cultural norms early.

Month Out

Bookings

Secure international and main accommodations. Book tours requiring advance reservations.

Transportation

Finalize transport between locations (domestic flights, transfers).

Language Prep

Start learning basic Portuguese phrases.

Week Out

Reconfirm & Pack

Reconfirm all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings. Pack according to climate and activities.

Currency & Banking

Obtain local currency or carry US Dollars for exchange. Inform bank of travel dates.

Documents

Make physical and digital copies of passport, visa, itinerary, insurance.

Booking Essentials

Secure these elements ahead of time.

Flights & Stays

International and any domestic flights should be booked.
Popular hotels in Luanda need booking.
Book well in advance, especially during peak season.
Consider rewards cards from Capital One Travel.

Tour Planning

Organized tours need advance booking.

Popular Tours

Organized tours, like safaris in Kissama National Park.
Visits to remote sites often need advance booking.
Permits or specialized transport are sometimes needed.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Familiarize yourself with Angola.

Guidebook Essential

Read a comprehensive Angola travel guide.
Familiarize yourself with the country.
Provides offline information.
Guidance on logistics and context.

Safety & Culture

Research current safety conditions.
Check government travel advisories.
Understand Angolan cultural norms and etiquette.
Ensure respectful interactions.

Home & Itinerary

Plan a basic itinerary for initial steps.
Guide your major bookings.
Secure your home before departure.
Arrange for mail collection and pet care.

Home Prep & Contacts

Pay any upcoming bills. Notify family or close friends of your itinerary. Provide them with your emergency contact information. Do not leave valuables visible at home.

Arrival Checklist

These are the first steps to take upon arriving in Angola.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration and Customs:
Navigate procedures at the airport. Have your passport, visa, and Yellow Fever certificate ready.
2
Currency Exchange/ATM:
Proceed to the currency exchange desk or an ATM to obtain local currency. Airport rates may be less favorable.
3
SIM Card:
Purchase a local SIM card if planned, at an official provider store.

Orientation & Purchases

At Accommodation:
Get oriented at your accommodation. Ask staff about safe areas and amenities.
Offline Maps:
Use your pre-downloaded offline maps to familiarize yourself with surroundings.
Initial Purchases:
Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.

Transportation from Entry Point

Pre-arranged Transport

Recommended for initial arrival for ease.

Ensures a smooth transition from the airport.

Official Airport Taxis

Negotiate fare beforehand to avoid overpaying.

Found outside the airport terminals.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Reliable options if available in Luanda (e.g., Africell Taxi, Heetch).

Confirm availability before arrival.

Airport Transport

Use pre-arranged transport (recommended), official airport taxis (negotiate fare), or reliable ride-sharing apps if available in Luanda.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth exit from Angola.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Buy souvenirs from reputable vendors.
Avoid items from protected species (e.g., ivory, protected woods).
Keep receipts for any significant purchases.
Research shipping options and costs; it can be expensive and complex.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport transfer, check-in, and security.
For international flights from Luanda, arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure.
Factor in potential traffic congestion, especially in Luanda.
Confirm your flight details and departure time.

Travel Essentials

Ensure your packing covers these needs.

Packing List Reminders

Universal power adapterLink
Tropical strength insect repellentLink
Water filter bottleLink
Compact travel first aid kitLink

More Packing Details

Portable power bank for devices on the go.
Angola travel guide for offline information.
Mosquito net for overnight protection.
Consider Eagle Creek for travel organization products.

Exit Checklist

VAT refunds are generally not applicable.

Ensure enough local currency for final transport and purchases. Have all necessary documents ready (passport, boarding pass).

Pre-Trip Checklist