WeatherAlthough it is located in a subtropical area, its specific location means that the Angolan climate is not typically tropical. It has two seasons: the rainy one, which is warmer and takes place between September and May, and the dry season, which is drier and less warm, and runs from May to September.
The weather in Angola also varies from region to region:
Coastal Area - with annual relative humidity around 30% and average temperature above 23°C;
Inland Regions: North - high rainfall and temperatures;
Inland Regions: Central Plateau - with a dry season and average temperatures around 19°C;
Inland Regions: South-west - with large temperature differences because of its location close to the Calaari desert and the influence of tropical air masses.
HealthAll visitors must be vaccinated against yellow fever, and should have their international certification of vaccination with them to be allowed entry to the country. Although not compulsory, vaccination against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and tetanus is also recommended.
The use of insect repellent and sun protection is advisable to avoid illness and sunburn.
You should be careful about what water to drink and, if possible, choose bottled water. At the first sign of illness, seek medical attention at one of the city's many hospitals or with a private doctor to avoid complications and to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
CurrencyKwanza. Credit cards are still not widely used, and you should check with your bank that your card can be used before travelling.
Credit cards are still not widely used, and you should check with your bank that your card can be used before travelling. Travellers cheques and Euro banknotes are not accepted, with few exceptions. American dollars are used frequently. However, old series and damaged notes are not accepted.
Time zoneGMT+1
Official languagePortuguese. There are 42 other languages, among which Umbuno, Quimbundo (or Kimbundo) and Quicongo (or Kicongo) are the most widely-spoken.
DocumentsVisitors must have a passport, valid for a period of at least 6 months from the date of arrival, to enter Angola. You will also need a valid visa, issued by the Angolan Consulate in your country of origin, and entry may be denied if you do not have one, as visas cannot be issued upon arrival.
Useful links Republic of Angola official website Embassy of the Republic of Angola in United Kingdom Embassy of the Republic of Angola in Washington, DC Embassy of the United States in Luanda- Angola British Embassy in LuandaWeather Service