Luanda City Guide

Local dishes include moamba de galinha, calulu, and funge. International food is mostly in upscale areas. Vegetarian and vegan options are limited but growing.

Nightlife centers on Ilha do Cabo with active bars and clubs, especially on weekends.

Growing coffee scene mixing traditional and modern cafes, with strong local roasts.

Tipping is optional but appreciated. Around 5-10% in restaurants, small tips for taxi and service staff.

Buy SIMs at the airport or official Unitel and Movicel stores with ID. eSIMs are rare.

Street cleanliness varies, with some litter issues and developing waste management.

Few 24/7 options. Some late-night shops and gas stations, but pharmacies and clinics mostly close early.

Big supermarkets like Shoprite and Candando sell imported goods but are pricey. Local markets offer fresh produce and meat with bargaining common.

Cards work in hotels, big shops, and nicer restaurants. Cash is needed for markets, transport, and small places.

ATMs are in banks and malls but can run out or fail. Withdraw money during business hours and expect high fees.

International schools like Luanda International School and American International School teach in English. Apply early.

Small and informal digital nomad scene with few meetups and limited nomad-friendly places.

Few parks in the city center; some green areas in newer neighborhoods and along the waterfront.

Running routes along the Marginal and compounds. Safety and air quality can be concerns.

Gyms and sports clubs are available, including fitness centers and local sports clubs.

Tennis courts at private clubs and some hotels, with coaching available.

Padel courts are starting to appear but are rare.

Yoga and wellness studios serve expats, with English-speaking instructors sometimes available.

Facilities offer Taekwondo, Karate, and boxing. BJJ and Muay Thai less common. Few English instructors.

No skiing in Angola.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing around Ilha do Cabo. Equipment and guides are limited.

Surfing spots south of Luanda with warm water. Swells are best May to October. Limited schools and rentals.

Coastal diving available but less developed. Visibility varies, equipment and certification are limited.

Private hospitals offer better care and some English speakers; public healthcare is basic. Pharmacies sell common meds and work like Western ones.

Tap water isn't safe to drink. Use bottled water only.

Family facilities are limited but improving with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and attractions like Ilha do Cabo and the National Museum of Natural History.

Laws allow same-sex relations but societal acceptance is limited and safe spaces scarce.

Pet policies vary; vet services and supplies exist but few pet parks. Import rules are strict.