You can have a relaxing or a thrilling vacation in Luanda, the capital of Angola. The party scene, fine dining, and local street food welcome every type of traveler. The upscale beaches offer you plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the sunlight. You can also go surfing and snorkeling.
Luanda’s cuisine is full of Portuguese and Brazilian influences. Have the traditional picanha with black beans, and the Portuguese staples codfish and cozido à Portuguesa. Luandans love their beer. Try Cuca, the major brand in the country. Chicala, a neighborhood, has a street food fair, and the grilled fish is a must-try.
As you are about to see, there is much to enjoy in Luanda. To make sure you can experience it all with additional measure of financial security, you must first invest in travel medical insurance or travel insurance.
Luanda Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Your domestic medical insurance will not provide financial coverage In Luanda. Hence, if a medical complication arises, you will have to pay for it out of your pocket. Travel medical insurance helps cover such expenses.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Luanda?
Travel medical insurance is not required to enter Luanda.
However, expenses in Luanda are very high, and emergency medical evacuation can completely drain your bank account. Having travel medical insurance can help you pay your medical bills without excessive financial strain.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Luanda?
There are several private clinics in Luanda. However, the fees are large and are charged in advance. Outside Luanda, healthcare is very limited.
Traveling to Angola puts you at high risk of contracting malaria, including chloroquine-resistant strains. If you experience any symptoms, you should visit the doctor immediately.
Adventure sports like snorkeling and surfing also put you at risk of injury. Treating medical complications can be tricky, and your bills can pile up in no time.
Given the risks, make sure you have adequate travel health insurance with sufficient coverage for medical treatment abroad, and medical evacuation.
Luanda Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
There are a number of complications that can get in the way of your trip, and canceling your plans can be the only option. The majority of your travel expenses to Luanda, such as airfare and lodging, will be prepaid, and these charges are usually nonrefundable. If you have no other option but to cancel your travel plans, you could be out all of that prepaid money. This is where trip cancellation insurance can be a lifesaver.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Luanda?
Floods are a seasonal occurrence in this country. In the past, these floods have led to material damages. If a flood occurs, your destination might become uninhabitable, and your travel providers could cancel your ticket. Your trip may also get delayed, which means canceling a part of your trip.
Aside from natural disasters, personal emergencies can prevent you from traveling. Legal obligations, sudden illness, and death or illness in your family can cause you to cancel your trip.
Trip cancellation insurance can cover such risks, and reimburse your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs in case of cancellation due to a reason covered by the policy. Depending on your plan, it can also provide additional perks, such as compensation for loss of travel documents and loss of checked baggage.
What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Luanda?
In addition to coverage for trip cancellation, consider a travel insurance plan that offers the following benefits:
- Travel delay coverage
- Loss of baggage coverage
- Trip interruption coverage
- Emergency medical coverage
- The option to cancel for any reason, if you want additional flexibility in cancelling your trip
Remember, not all policies are the same, so be sure to do your research and understand the benefits before making a purchase. With the right travel insurance, you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.
Things to Do for Travelers in Luanda
Visit the Saint Michael Fortress
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. Marvel at this Portuguese fortress that was built in the 16th century. View the ornate wall tiles inscribed with Angola’s history, and make sure to also check out the displays of ancient relics.
Take a stroll along the Harbor
Go for a stroll at Avenida 4 de Fevereiro. You can get the best view of the boats coming in and out of the port. Keep your eye out for the beautiful building, Banco de Angola, and visit the fort at the end of the avenue. End your day with dining at one of the luxury hotels on the street.
Surf at Cabo Ledo
Have a day out with your family or friends in Cabo Ledo. You can also go swimming, fishing or snorkeling. Be sure to try the fresh seafood available at the waterfront restaurants.
Nights out at Sana Luanda
Enjoy a glamorous night at the Sana Luanda hotel. The five-star hotel offers a great view of the bay. You can dine at Origami, or for Italian cuisine and wine, go to Vitrúvio Restaurant. After your meal, you can enjoy cocktails at the lobby Kosmopolis Bar. You can also go dancing at the chic Switch Supper Club.
Shop for souvenirs at the Benfica Market
Buy local handicrafts at the Benfica Market. If possible, travel with a guide, so that you’re not overcharged. It is also the perfect spot to observe the locals of Luanda as they go about their daily lives.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Luanda
English is not widely spoken
Don’t rely on English. Luanda is the world’s most populous Portuguese-speaking capital city. Locals may not be able to communicate with you in English. You can either get a translator, or learn a few basic words to facilitate your stay. Don’t rely on your phone for translation.
Stay alert at night
At night, Luanda can become dangerous. Do not travel on roads during nighttime. If you do have to go somewhere, make sure that you’re not alone. Keep emergency numbers on your speed dial.
Pickpockets and petty theft
Tourists are a frequent target for petty thefts in any city. Bag-snatching is also a large threat here. Be very careful in certain places in Luanda, such as the Roque Santeiro market, and Rocha Pinto. Carry only enough money to cover you for the day. If you’re confronted by someone, comply with their demands and end the confrontation as quickly as possible.
Beware of scams
There are plenty of scams to steal from tourists. Pay strict attention to your belongings at the Luanda airport. Be wary of anyone trying to distract you, or anyone offering help. They might try to steal from you. Recheck your change and negotiate your cab fare before stepping into a vehicle.
General safety
Take general safety precautions. Always lock your car doors, and leave your valuables at your accommodation. If a stranger offers to help translate for you, accept cautiously. Do not accept food or drink from strangers or new acquaintances.
Before You Travel to Luanda - Do This
Take our advice to enjoy your vacation to the fullest
- Carry mosquito repellent.
- Learn some Portuguese phrases.
- Make sure that your passport has a minimum 6-month validity at the time of entry.
- Buy a travel medical insurance or travel insurance plan to manage your financial risks efficiently.