Angola is one of the many countries in Africa that has suffered through decades of warfare and poverty. It shares a border with Namibia in the south, Zambia in the east, and the Republic of Congo as well as the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the north. The province of Cabinda is separated from the rest of Angola by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but was annexed by Angola on 1 August 1975. Since the 2002 ceasefire was in place, the country finally has some breathing room to develop itself. At the moment, tourism infrastructure is at the development stage. Visitors will be rewarded with lovely colonial architecture from the Portuguese era, miles of under-explored beaches and wildlife parks. However, do not veer off the main tourist track, as Angola has unexploded landmines in its rural areas. Hygiene-wise, drink only bottled and boiled water, as the country suffers from the occasional cholera outbreak. Take necessary precautions also for malaria, and exercise caution when in Luanda, which has a high crime rate.
Fast Facts about Angola
Official Name: Republic of Angola
Capital: Luanda (2,200,000)
Population of Angola: 12,127,500
Languages: Portuguese (official), Bantu, dialects
Currency: Kwanza
Religions: Traditional beliefs (47%), Roman Catholic (38%), Protestant (15%)
Size: 1,246,700 sq km (481,353 sq miles)
Region: Africa
When to visit Angola
The best time to visit Angola is during the cooler months of June to September, when it is also dryer. The weather starts to get warm in October, and then the wet seasons start from November to April.
What to wear in Angola
Lightweight clothing is sufficient for the day time throughout the year, and some warmer clothing is good for the evenings. Umbrella or raincoat is advisable throughout the year, and especially during the rainy season.
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