ANGOLA: A trip from the North to the South

 

For years Angola was infamous for its very hard-to-get visa. As of October 2023, the visa on arrival scheme in Angola has been extended to a whopping 98 countries in a move that is expected to help boost tourist numbers to the Southern African nation.

Angola was a Portuguese possession from 1575 until its independence in 1975. It has gone through a communist regime and most recently a bitter civil war, and has been renowned for just how difficult it was to get a visa. While things had slowly started to get better for the nation, the first announcement of new tourist visa policy in 2018 was slightly unexpected.

Since the visa was so difficult to obtain for Angola and the fees for any tourist activities were hefty, most tourists stayed away from the country. Things are slowly changing now, but it’s still way off the tourist trail compared to its neighbouring countries. Expect curious faces, unspoiled tourist attractions and a unique travel experience.

Angola may not be known for its incredible nature or famous local tribes, but that’s mostly because no-one ever goes there and tells you about it! Just outside Luanda is the Kissama National Park. The park is just a few hours from Luanda but feels already like a world apart. Wildlife (giraffes, elephants, zebras) and the incredible Moon Viewpoint make this one of the best parks in the whole country. In the middle of Angola, you will find the mighty Kalandula Falls, which are some of the best in Africa.

The South of Angola is mostly famous for its local tribes. Here, you go back in time and are able to experience real Angolan village life. Traditions are still a big part of the culture here.