Luanda

Top 10 things to do in Luanda

For close to 3 decades, Angola was the scene of a devastating civil war. But since the end of the war in 2002, Luanda has become one of Africa’s fastest growing urban areas as the impact of lasting peace and ‘petrol dollars’ continues to benefit the city. Unfortunately, these good tidings have also been responsible for making Luanda one of the most expensive cities in Africa. Still a great place to visit though if the rising tourist numbers are anything to go by.

1. Museu de Antropologia – Like many sub-Saharan African countries, Angola is a country of many ethnic groups. The Museum of Anthropology is the perfect place to understand the culture, history, artwork, weaponry, tools, clothing, jewellery and music instruments of the different communities.

2. Fortaleza de Sao Miguel – Built in the 16th century, this is the oldest colonial building in Luanda. The fort was the centre of the Portuguese colonial administration and was also a holding area for slaves in transit. Tours of the cells and the cannons are some of the key highlights.

3. Palacio de Ferro – The more than 100 year old building was pre-built in France but landed in Luanda almost by accident. Originally destined for Madagascar, the ship carrying it was forced to the Angolan shore by strong Atlantic Ocean currents.

4. Augostinho Neto Mausoleum – The mausoleum is one of the most defining structures of Luanda’s skyline. The obelisk-resembling tower juts right out of the centre of the city and was built in memory of Angola’s first president, Augustinho Neto.

5. Fortaleza de Sao Pedro da Barra – The fortress was built in the 17th century as a holding place for slaves en route to North and South America, a purpose it served for many years before the abolition of the slave trade.

6. Igreja Nossa Senhora do Populo – This church is one of the most important historical and cultural sites in Luanda. At more than 500 years old, it is thought to be the first Anglican Church in Africa and among the oldest in the world. The Baroque design and the meticulous interior décor is a must see.

7. Parque Nacional Da Kissama – The Park is home to antelope, elephants, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, ostrich and exotic birds. Poaching was virtually uncontrolled during the civil war but there are aggressive efforts towards restoring the numbers the park once enjoyed.

8. Ilha de Luanda – This is an island just off the shores of the main Luanda city and is one of the more exclusive suburbs of the capital. Be warned though that the price of everything here is steep given that it is where the country’s elite go to have fun.

9. Roque Santeiro – Like most other African capital cities, Luanda has several markets and one that is far larger than the rest. For Luanda, Roque Santeiro is that gigantic market. Its expansive size means you could spend quite some time there if you do not know where to look for the item you are shopping for.

10. Benfica Handcrafts Market – South of Luanda city centre, the handcrafts market sells clothing, jewellery, sculptures and paintings. Probably the best place in Luanda to purchase souvenirs. Make sure you only go to the market accompanied by a local if you want to get a good price.

No reviews yet

You can be the first to review 'Luanda'.