Angola flights and travel guide

Language

The official language is Portuguese. Some French and Spanish is also spoken, as well as about 60 African languages including Umbundu and Ovambo.

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Communications

The international dialling code for Angola is +244. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). Domestic and international telecommunications services are unreliable with connections frequently lost. This also applies to the mobile network, although there is GSM 900 coverage around Luanda and other main centres provided by Unitel. There are more mobile telephones than fixed lines in Angola. There are some internet service providers in operation and internet access is available at most major hotels.

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Tipping

If service charge is not included in the bill a tip of 10 per cent is acceptable, though tipping is not officially encouraged.

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Safety

The main risk for travellers to Angola is crime, particularly in the capital, Luanda, where muggings, car-jackings and armed hold-ups are commonplace. Many civilians are armed.

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Health

Yellow fever vaccinations are required for entry to Angola if coming from infected countries. Malaria, hepatitis A and B, rabies and polio are all prevalent in the country, which has exceedingly poor medical facilities, and medications are in short supply. Cholera outbreaks also occur. Drinking water should be treated or bought in sealed bottles (avoid ice cubes in drinks) and care should be taken with hygiene and food, particularly street food, while travelling in Angola. In Luanda there are one or two good private clinics, but these are extremely expensive and require on-the-spot payment. Comprehensive medical insurance is therefore necessary, with provision for medical repatriation by air. The water supply is unsafe to drink; use only imported bottled water and avoid eating unpeeled fruit and vegetables. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled; alternatively use tinned milk reconstituted with purified water.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round pin attachment plugs are in use.

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