Given the fact that Angola has opened up its borders to over 90 countries, now it’s the perfect time to visit Luanda. As long as you’re coming exclusively for tourism purposes and staying for no longer than 90 days, our doors are wide open.

However, there might be a few unexpected events you will probably come across. Trying to put myself in your shoes, I came up with a list of four things you should not do when you visit Luanda. 

1. Don’t count on your credit/debit card

Honestly, I don’t know what’s up with our banking system, but just take my word for it and do not count on your credit/debit card. It won’t work in most ATMs, restaurants and shops. It might work in a few hotels, but I wouldn’t bet on it.

Instead, bring some cash (preferably USD or Euros) and exchange some at the airport and most of it at exchange offices or on the street, if you have someone to advise you. Always check the exchange rates before.

Also, don’t forget to notify your bank about your visit to Luanda, so that your card does work whenever you find the occasional place that will accept it.

2. Avoid taking the taxis at the airport

I mean, you can try but agree on payment before getting in the taxi. 

Once, this guest of mine got a taxi and the taxi driver wanted to charge him 15.000AKZ for a 3-km ride. Luckily, I was meeting him at the drop-off location and managed to straighten the taxi driver. My client ended up paying 6.000AKZ. The actual payment should have been 3. 000AKZ, but we decided to let it pass.

Unfortunately, this is a situation you could find yourself in and to avoid it I recommend you download a few taxi apps such as Yango and Heetch. With those, you can actually see how much your ride will cost beforehand and even test them out before you arrive in Luanda.

3. Don’t exchange money outside the airport

You have the option to exchange money inside the airport or even pay in FOREX if you talk to your taxi driver. Many accommodation managers will have no problem accepting your money either.

But to buy other stuff, I strongly recommend you exchange money as soon as you can, but not outside the airport. And I mean directly outside, on the sidewalk. That is because many of the dealers work with taxi drivers who will try to rip you off. They are not necessarily aggressive but being ripped off is no fun.

Usually, you’ll see those nice ladies around town rubbing their fingers in your direction as if they were counting money. Very often they also sell top-up phone cards and are dressed in African print skirts.

4. Don’t stay at hotels

Yes, you read correctly! Unless you’re coming on business and your company has a generous budget to cover your accommodation, there are other options. Not that hotels are bad, but for the amount you will pay, you’ll expect flawless service and I’m not sure you’ll get it.

I would recommend short-term rentals because prices are way more competitive. Moreover, you’ll get an entire place to yourself and the opportunity to interact with the local community.

If you don’t trust what you see on the Airbnb profile, book one night at the hotel of your choice and visit an Airbnb property to check things for yourself. There are beautiful beach-view apartments.

Now you’re all set to come visit Luanda and have the time of your life.

And, before you ask, some of the must-dos are:

• Visit the military museum (Fortress of São Miguel)
• Enjoy a beach day at Ilha de Luanda
• Spend the weekend in Mussulo
• Have a cheap and local meal in Chicala

Have fun and enjoy your stay!