Luanda is undergoing major redevelopment to return this once magnificent city to its
former glory. New buildings are going up at a rapid pace. Be prepared for traffic jams
and occasional chaos.
Travel Alert
If you're planning a leisure or business trip to Luanda, note that the British
Embassy advises against non-essential travel to the interior of the Cabinda Province
and to North and South Lunda Provinces because of the high risk of civil unrest.
Contact your embassy or consulate in advance for up-to-date travel information and
heed local advice on safety.
Background
The Cidade Alta and the suburb of Miramar are home to many embassies
and the well-to-do, including the President. Both districts overlook the congested
streets of the Baixa business district. An hour's drive south in the green
and affluent suburb of Luanda Sul choose fine Italian or seafood dishes in
one of the restaurants in the luxury Hotel de Convenções de Talatona. The 8-mile
long sand strip known as the Ilha is a major Luanda attraction – dance to
heady African rhythms in its night spots or dine on lobster in sophisticated
open-air restaurants.
First-time visit
For the best 360 degree view of the city, head for the imposing white ramparts of the
Fortaleza de São Miguel. The President's Palace and the majestic,
pastel-pink National Bank building stand out on the bay side, while out on
the ocean dozens of ships wait to berth in the harbour. Next stop is fresh fish and
seafood or spicy Portuguese dishes served in one of many excellent beach-side
restaurants on the Ilha. Finish the day by viewing tribal costumes and
musical instruments in the fascinating Museum of Anthropology.
Return visit
An hour's drive out of Luanda, Mussulo Island is an ideal spot to escape the
heat of city. The drive takes you through the bustling suburbs and the exhilarating
20-minute boat trip is refreshing. Once on the island head to the Atlantic coast for
windswept and mostly deserted golden sand beaches or stay close to the jetty and sip
an ice-cold Caipirinha (Brazilian rum and lime cocktail) and nibble on fresh,
juicy prawns.
Please note that you won't be able to make changes to your hotel or car booking. If you want to change your booking you will have to cancel your current booking and make a new booking. This can be done on ba.com.
We cannot guarantee that the same hotel room or car rental option will still be available if you have to cancel and make a new booking.
