Angola
Angola is located on the south-west side of Africa but is still classified as within Central Africa. Its neighbouring countries are the DRC, Namibia and Zambia. The capital city in the country is called Luanda which is located on the coast of the country. The local country’s currency is called the Angolan Kwanza (AOA).
Fun fact! Luanda has previously been deemed the most expensive city to live in.
If you’d like to know some more interesting facts about Angola feel free to watch my YouTube video below:
So, lets break this country up into PARTS.
People
Angolan people mainly derive from the Bantu people, other ethnic groups such as Ovimbundu, Kimbundu, Bankongo, Chokwe and mesticos (mixed African and European) contribute to the country’s diverse demographic.
Portuguese is the official and most common language spoken as the country is a former colony, but Umbundu and other native languages are also spoken within the country.
Attractions
There’s so much to see in Luanda, Take a dive into the hustle and bustle of the city, explore museums like Fortaleza de Sao Migueland, the national slave museum and the Iron palace(Palacio de Ferro) to better understand the country’s history and culture. Treat yourself in plazas such as Belas shopping mall and even at the local markets before resting on Sangano Beach – one of Angola’s most beautiful beaches.
The attractions outside of Luanda are just as good!
Dive into Ruacana Falls: One of the largest waterfalls in Africa
Explore Mbanza Kongo: A world heritage site. This town was crucial in the Portuguese slave trade.
Tour the Parque National do Quicama. Located south of the capital Luanda, this national park is home to hundreds of wildlife including elephants, giraffes and zebras! Take a safari tour and bask in the country’s beautiful nature.
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- Angola
Rituals and Culture
A famous traditional Angolan music style is the Semba. Brazilian Samba is said to have its roots in Semba music.
Religion is a big part of Angolan culture with the majority of the population identifying as Roman catholic or Protestant.
Angolan food is a blend of its diverse culture with some must try dishes being: Bombo Assado (Grilled cassava), Muamba de galinha (Chichen,okra and palmoil stew) and passionfruit mousse.
Tips
– Know your location! It is illegal to take pictures and videos of or around government areas in Angola.
– Learn the language! As Portuguese is the official and most commonly spoken language, it maybe useful to brush up on the basics.
Stories
The home of Kizomba and the country that ignited my love for Portuguese. As a teenager, I stumbled across some Angolan films and fell in love with the language as well as the look of the country and their culture, it was like Nollywood but better!
Sources
For more travel advice check out; FCO: Travel Advice
Outside of the UK: Please check your government’s travel advice carefully.