Angola: Updated Travel and Safety Information for Visitors

The Federal Foreign Office has updated its travel and safety advisories for Angola (as of October 22, 2026). Anyone planning a trip to Angola or who has already applied for a visa should take a look at the key points, as the security situation in parts of the country can change rapidly and certain regions should be specifically avoided.

The domestic political situation is generally considered to be largely stable; however, strikes and demonstrations against rising living costs occur repeatedly in major cities, particularly in the capital, Luanda. Travelers should give large crowds and demonstrations a wide berth and stay informed through local media. Particular caution is advised in the provinces of Cabinda, Lunda Norte, and Lunda Sul: In Cabinda, minor secessionist tensions persist, while in the Lunda provinces along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces may occur. Travel to these areas is not recommended.

The issue of landmines also remains relevant: Although most mines from the civil war era have been cleared, a risk still exists in some parts of the country away from major cities. Anyone traveling off paved roads should research their route in advance and exercise extreme caution.

A key point in the current travel advisories concerns the high crime rate, which primarily affects travelers. Armed robberies and thefts occur at all hours of the day and night, even in busy areas such as shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels. In Luanda, there is a high incidence of attacks on vehicles stuck in traffic, sometimes involving staged accidents or tampered tires as a diversionary tactic. Foreign visitors are a prime target for theft of cash, credit cards, and cell phones. Recommendations include refraining from resisting an attack, avoiding evening walks, carrying valuables discreetly, and avoiding public transportation in favor of taxi apps.

The infrastructure also warrants attention: Domestic flights and rail connections are considered risky due to irregular maintenance, and the use of intercity buses is explicitly discouraged following reports of attacks. Regular taxis are limited in availability and relatively expensive, which is why travelers should research reliable transportation options in advance. Additionally, during the rainy season—which lasts from September to April, depending on the region—heavy rainfall and flooding are to be expected.

For anyone planning a trip to Angola despite these warnings, properly applying for the required visa remains an important first step. We can assist you in compiling the appropriate documents and submitting your application correctly so that you can focus on practical safety considerations during your trip. Before you embark on your journey, you can find an overview of available visa types and the appropriate application process on our website.