Indeed Africa is gifted, particularly Angola as a country. With so many amazing things to explore, choosing the right day out may seem overwhelming. That is why Afrikta is here to help you find the best places and activities to enjoy in Angola. Families, couples, and business travelers can all find something great to do while creating lifetime memories. Indeed Angola has a lot to offer. Whether you like nature, gastronomy, adventure, or learning about the local culture, you will quickly fall in love with this place. If you plan a trip to this magnificent country anytime soon, here are ten 10 things to do in Angola that should be at the top of your list.
1. Love Watersport? Experience Stand up paddleboarding
Experience Stand up paddleboarding
When was the last time did you explore something new? Get ready for one of the best things to do in Angola: Stand up paddleboarding. You do not need a good balance or a skill. It is a sport and a fantastic fitness activity for everyone, like couples, friends, young and old, from novices to experienced boarders. It is a pleasant method to play on the water while also providing a full-body workout. The only thing required is good weather. Discover the joy and fun of stand-up paddleboarding on the beautiful island of Mussulo. See Angola from a different perspective while staying in shape.
2. Shopping in Luanda Angola – Shop local handicrafts
Luanda, the capital of Angola, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis. According to statistics, it is also the most expensive city in the world. As a result, one of the best things to do in Angola is to plan for a successful shopping experience. Shop for genuine local handicrafts and authentic goods as a souvenir. The following are some of the well-known retail districts for residents, ex-pats, and tourists:
Go To Belas Shopping Mall
Belas Shopping Mall
Belas Mall is the most popular shopping and entertainment center in Talatona, Luanda. It is a place you can shop for souvenirs, and also have a good time. You can find many affordable shops and boutiques around, providing stunning beach costumes and accessories, casual clothing, and shoes from well-known brands. As a result, Belas is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Angola.
Avennida Shopping Mall Luanda
Avennida Shopping Mall Luanda
The Avennida mall caters mainly to tourists and travelers. Fashion people will like the luxury designer boutiques and jewelry stores, while women will appreciate the large cosmetics and perfume stores. Aso, the mall includes a variety of low-cost accessories and jewelry shops. The Avennida retail complex is one of the most contemporary commercial malls in Luanda. Additionally, it is a popular place, providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Angola.
Benfica and Futungo are two famous handicraft shopping districts in Luanda.
Benfica Craft Market
Handicraft Benfica Market
The Benfica Crafts Market has been a genuine landmark for anyone interested in Angolese arts and crafts since the 1990s. At Benfica, the price of souvenirs and sculptures is friendly. There are various items available, including paintings, accessories, textiles, and other handcrafted gadgets. Many artisans and vendors meet there every day. Around 700 merchants have approximately 10,000 pieces on display every day. It is where people buy monuments and traditional outfits like Mwana Pwo, which symbolizes the ideal feminine.
Futungo: The largest craft market in Angola
Futungo is a fantastic tourist attraction since it is the largest craft market in Angola. This market serves as a museum for many travelers. It only operates once a week, on Sundays. There, artisans from all across Angola display their best work. Original wood crafts, ritual characteristics, clay goods, hand-painted masks, and handcrafted jewelry, allowing everyone to find something he likes
Shopping Tip in Angola: All purchases must be stamped, which may be done at a local customs shop for a fee, to save time at the Angola airport.
Read Also:
3. Place to go: Kissama National Park Safari
Kissama National Park Angola
If you want to go on a safari in Angola, Kissama National Park is one of the finest places to go. It is around 75 kilometers south of Luanda, so close enough for a day excursion. But, do not expect it to be as good as safaris in Kenya or Tanzania. It is, nevertheless, on equal or perhaps better in terms of natural surroundings and wildlife. Booking a trip with a local guide is the most convenient method to visit the park. While seeing the park alone is possible, it might be hard at times. Because most people only speak Portuguese and the public transportation system in the country is complicated. For a comfortable experience at Kissama park, it is preferable to be accompanied by a local guide.
4. Pay your respects to the first President
Mausoleum of Agostinho Neto
If you have some time to spend in Luanda, then pay your respects to the first President by visiting the mausoleum of Agostinho Neto. It is one of the most worthwhile things to do in Angola. This impressive and iconic monument is a dedication to the first president of Angola. This symbolic structure is richly designed with historical features and breathes the heritage of Agostinho Neto. The location is lovely, well-kept, and contains a wealth of information on Luanda and Angola. It is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Luanda. However, photographs are not allowed inside the mausoleum.
5. Enjoy a glamorous Dining Restaurant
Restaurante Café Del Mar
Restaurante Café Del Mar Angola
Del mar is one of the finest eateries on the island of Luanda, with a relaxing atmosphere. Additionally, the personnel is quite pleasant, and the service is adequate. The meal is delicious and well-prepared. It is not cheap but reasonable for the level of service and quality provided. The Café Del Mar restaurant is the perfect location to go if you want to spend quality time by the sea.
Lookal Mar Restaurant Angola
Lookal Mar Restaurant Angola
Are you looking for a good seafood restaurant in Luanda? Then you should try Lookal Mar Restaurant. It has a broad selection of delicious fresh cuisine. In addition, the décor is beautiful with an African flair. On Sunday nights, the restaurant is open, which is unusual for many other eateries. Also, do not overdo the appetizers, or you will miss out on the tasteful main dish. It is a little more pricey than others in the neighborhood, but it is well worth it.
Chill Out Restaurant
Restaurant Chil Out Angola
Chill Out restaurant, well known for its club ambiance, features some of the best culinary options in Luanda, Angola. It is located along the picturesque coastline and offers a tranquil and natural atmosphere. The cuisine features Eurasian fusion dishes with Angolan flavor. Also, the quality of the food is excellent. As a result, Chill Out is one of the finest restaurants in Luanda. Other great restaurants include the Luanda Chic, Restaurante Veneza, and more.
6. Visit the Saint Michael Fortress
St Michael fortress Angola
Säo Miguel fort was erected in 1576 by Paulo Dias de Novais, the founder of Luanda. And the fortress was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The Saint Michael Fortress became an administrative colony in 1627 and served as a significant conduit for slave trafficking to Brazil. It was a constructed structure with solid walls. It served as the headquarters of the Commander-in-Chief of the Portuguese Army in Angola until 1975. The National Museum of Military History is now in the fort.
Read Also:
7. Must See Kalandula Waterfalls
Kalandula Waterfalls Angola
Kalandula Falls is the most popular tourist destination in Malanje, if not all of Angola. These falls are frequently said to as Africa’s second most spectacular (after Victoria Falls). Located in the Lucala River, Kalandula has more than 100 meters high and 400 meters wide. During the rainy season, when the Lucala is at its peak, these falls are very spectacular. The scenery and proximity to the waterfall make the experience considerably more dramatic for those who hire a guide to go to the bottom. It is one of the most enjoyable activities in Angola.
8. Visit The Currency Museum Angola
Currency Museum Angola
President Jose Eduardo Dos Santos inaugurated the Currency Museum in Angola. The museum is partly underground and located near the central bank on Fevereiro Avenue in Luanda Bay. The display in the exhibition hall remembers the history of Angola’s money, beginning with the usage of Nzimbu, a type of seashell, as a form of payment. So, visit the currency museum to discover more about Angola’s history.
9. Go To Pululukwa Resort Lubango
Pululukwa resort angola
The Pululukwa Resort, one of Angola’s most luxury projects, was born within the city of Lubango, quietly hidden between forest and mountains. Moreover, this stunning resort has a restaurant with expansive outdoor areas and breathtaking views. The Pululukwa resort is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. You can see wild creatures, zebras, antelopes, and even ostriches and crocodiles. As a result, you have a lot to discover with 100 acres and amazing hikes.
10. Relax at the Beach of Cabo Ledo
Cabo ledo Angola Beach
Cabo Ledo is Luanda City’s most well-known beach, where most people spend their weekends for a picnic or a relaxing retreat with their families. It is located a few kilometers outside of the city and is ideal for anyone seeking some quiet time. There are two types of beaches at Cabo Ledo. One is for tourist resorts, while the other is for boutiques and businesses If you enjoy the water and excellent food, this is the place to go.
To conclude, Angola was probably one of the last holiday destinations on your mind a few years ago. But, as you can see, whether you are a tourist or an ex-pat, there are many great things to do in Angola nowadays. You can enjoy these beautiful sceneries and activities through cultural tours. Angola’s modern infrastructure, along with its pleasant climate, makes it one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. If you enjoy traveling, Angola should be on your bucket list.
Discover more with AFRIKTA:
