Angola is a country that truly surprised and amazed us.  We did not quite know what to expect.  However, when we got here, we were pleasantly surprised with a country that reminded us of  Burundi, South Sudan and  Namibia, all in one!  In this post we share the 7 must visit places in Angola.

This country suffered through 3 periods of civil war lasting 27 years and leaving land mines and many scars on it’s beautiful people.  Because of this history, at times, Angola gets overshadowed by its more established neighbors. But for the intrepid explorer, Angola offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From ancient tribal cultures to breathtaking landscapes and historic cities, this resurgent nation promises an adventure that will leave you wanting more.

What are the Must Visit Places in Angola?

This guide focuses on 7 must visit places in Angola for the curious traveler, each offering a unique glimpse into the soul of this nation.

#1 – Angola’s People – The Angola Tribes

Overall there are over 100 distinct ethnic groups and languages/dialects in Angola.  Some of the most interesting Angola Tribes are located in the southern part of the country.  The best way to meet with the tribes is with a reputable tour guide, like Marta of MTT (her tour business).

Mumuhuila People

The Mumuhuila tribe (also named Mwila and Mumuila), inhabiting southern Angola, is renowned for its craftsmanship.  They are a Bantu-speaking agro-livestock group of people.

The women of the Mumuhuila people wear elaborate hairstyles, which are deeply embedded in their cultural identity. These hairstyles hold significant meaning, with the number of plaits (resembling dreadlocks) conveying messages. Typically, four to six plaits adorn a woman’s head; however, three plaits signify the loss of a family member.

Women traditionally coat their hair with a red paste derived from crushed stone, followed by a mixture of oil, dried cow dung, and herbs. This process strengthens and styles the hair. Further adornment comes in the form of beads, adding a vibrant touch. Shaving the forehead is considered a mark of beauty within the tribe.

Mumuhuila women’s artistry extends beyond hairstyles. Their necklaces are worn throughout their lives, symbolize distinct life stages. Young girls wear eye-catching red necklaces decorated with beads. As they grow older, they transition to “vikeka,” yellow necklaces made from wicker and coated with earth. Finally, married women receive a set of stacked necklaces encased in hardened mud, called “vilanda.” This permanent piece becomes part of their attire, even while they sleep.

Humbi People

The Humbi tribe is a large group known for their skills in crafts and raising crops and livestock. Since the 1960s, contact with Christian missionaries has changed some of their traditions. Despite outside influences, the Humbi people have still held onto some important parts of their culture, especially how their society is organized.

One example is the “fico” ceremony, a coming-of-age ritual where young women wear elaborate hairstyles shaped like crests and elephant ears.

PRO TIP: If you are going to be in the area visiting the tribes, stop by the colossal Imbondeiro de Xangongo. It is believed to be the largest baobab tree in Africa. The tree’s trunk is about 27 meters in diameter, and its crown is about 22 meters in diameter. It’s located in the village of Péu-Péu.

Hakaona People

The Hakaona tribe lives near the Cunene River, in an area with a wooded savanna and rocky hills. They primarily raise goats, with the size of the flock owned reflecting social standing. While men serve as respected traditional doctors and women are skilled artisans, herding holds the highest social importance.

Hakaona people also grow crops like corn and millet that rely on rainfall. Their society is organized into clans led by the eldest male. Uniquely, the Hakaona tribe continues the tradition of making baby carriers from cowhide, decorated with colorful beads. Hakaona women further showcase their artistry by crafting dolls from wood and hair, using both natural and man-made materials.

Dimba People

The Dimba tribe of Angola lives on the outskirts of the town of Cahama. They raise livestock, hunt for food, and grow their own crops for subsistence. The Dimba people are known for their vibrant culture, particularly the fascinating hairstyles worn by their women. These hairstyles change depending on the occasion, a woman’s age and her stage of life.

Dimba women make beautiful dolls for their young daughters to play with. These dolls are often lavishly decorated with vegetable cords and braids covered with colored glass or plastic beads.

Their villages stand out with strong fences made of wooden poles and houses decorated with colorful geometric patterns. Despite the spread of Christianity in the area, the Dimba have preserved their unique traditions.

#2 Namibe Desert in Angola

The Namibe Desert is considered one of the oldest deserts in the world.  People come here to hike, camp, take amazing photographs or visit additional Angola Tribes.  The wildlife in this region includes, snakes, Oryx, lizards, and a rare plant which is only found in Namibe’s desert, the Welwitcha Mirabilis.

Some of the areas that are most interesting in the Namib Desert include:

• Photographing fishermen in the town of Tombua, historically Angola’s largest fishing port.
• Arco Lake, a beautiful oasis once fed by the Curoca River and known for its sandstone arches. Unfortunately, due to lack of recent rainfall, the lake has dried up in recent years. Despite this, the area remains scenic and worth visiting.
• Finally, less than 30 minutes away, you can visit the picturesque Camilunga Canyon which is a hidden gem

The drive from Lubango to the Namibe Desert is only 1.5 hours long.

#3 Serra da Leba

The Serra da Leba mountain range stretches for about 20 kilometers and reaches up to 1,800 meters in altitude. This scenic mountain range attracts many visitors with its breathtaking views. From the top, you can see rivers, forests, and even cities far in the distance.

One interesting fact is that the iconic Serra da Leba imagine, can be found on Angola’s 2000 Kwanza bill.  The viewpoint is only a 50 minute drive from Lubango, making it a must visit places in Angola.

#4 Tundavala Gap

The Tundavala Gap is located on the rim of the Serra da Leba mountain range. (although it is 56 km away and almost a full hour drive north).  It is a natural wonder and a jaw dropping viewpoint that’s about 18 kilometers from Lubango.

If one looks down from the Tundavala Gap all one sees is a rocky abyss.   The Gap is a millennium-old natural wonder that’s been sculpted by erosion. It is a viewpoint known for its dramatic rock formations, high altitude, and the deep valley below.

#5 Calandula Falls

The Calandula Falls (sometimes written as Kalandula Falls) are a majestic sight located on the Lucala River, roughly 85 kilometers (53 miles) from Malanje city in northeastern Angola. Lush greenery and scenic landscapes surround the falls, making it a picturesque destination. Calandula Falls stretch an impressive 410 meters (1,345 feet) wide and plunge 105 meters (344 feet) down a series of rocky steps, creating a breathtaking cascade.

The surroundings consist of verdant forests, rolling hills, and a diverse range of plant and animal life. Lush vegetation and the mist from the falls create a refreshing and peaceful atmosphere. There are two viewpoints to enjoy the falls: one from the pricey Pousada side and another viewpoint from the town of Calandula itself, which offers a wider and arguably a more beautiful perspective.

Please keep in mind that the trip to Calandula Falls takes approximately 7 hours on a very bumpy road – so if you get car sick this may not be the trip for you!

PRO TIP: We did not think that the Pousada was worth the $260 USD per night price tag (without breakfast).  Especially since they are going through renovations currently.  The view of the waterfalls is quite misty from this side and far away.  In addition, the road to the Pousada is slow and very bumpy.

The hotel that we can recommend is the Lwenze Hotel on the side of Calandula City.  The price was about $40 USD for a clean air conditioned room with a comfortable bed and a hot shower in our private bathroom.  Even the breakfast was good and plentiful.

#6 Pedras Negra

Our long drive was rewarded with the ever-growing sight of Pedras Negras, the Black Stones getting larger as we got closer. These impressive giant rock formations rise from 70 to 200 meters tall.  Their geological origin remains a mystery, as they stand out from the surrounding landscape.  They are similar to the rock formation that jut up high into the air in Meteora,  Greece.

The area also holds historical significance as well.  It served as the capital of the Ndongo Kingdom, a powerful African kingdom that existed from the 16th to the 20th century. Local legends claim that footprints of King Ngola Kiluanji and Queen Ginga, who ruled the kingdom in the 17th century, are embedded in these very rocks.

Once you arrive, a local guide takes you up one of the tall rock formations, stopping to take a closer look at one of the rocks named “Elephant Rock” as it resembles an elephant.  The views are spectacular, making the short 20 minute hike worth the sweat.

#7 Viewpoint of the Moon