£333+ Cheap flights to Luanda

Luanda overview

Luanda, Angola’s capital, located on the Atlantic coast, is a fascinating, vibrant place, almost entirely rebuilt after the decades of civil war that followed the end of Portuguese colonial rule in 1975.

Today’s visitors who take flights to Luanda will enjoy a warm welcome and will find plenty to see and do. Luanda’s many restaurants offer an enticing mixture of Portuguese and African food. Benfica Market just outside the city centre sells locally-made arts and crafts, often made by the stall-holders themselves. Locals say the best beach is on Mussola Island, reached by boat. Towering over the city centre is the Augostinho Neto Mausoleum, honouring the first president of independent Angola. The National Museum of Slavery takes visitors to a grim period in Angola’s history. It is built in the area where Angolan slaves were shipped off to the Americas. The National Museum of National History has an intriguing display of thousands of insects, fish and birds. All of them are indigenous and many are endangered. It’s an easy way to learn about the natural riches of Angola. Igreja Nossa Senhora do Pópulo is a church that Angolans regard as one of their most sacred sites. The church dates back to the 15th century, and it features baroque architecture and an extravagant interior. The National Museum of Anthropology educates visitors on the great depths of Angolan history and culture, prior to Portuguese colonisation. Exhibits include a wide variety of traditional masks, as well as weapons and musical instruments.

Getting around Luanda

Luanda has a large fleet of blue and white minibus taxis that local people use to get around the city. During the day, they provide safe and cheap transport for visitors. Private taxis are also increasingly available at very reasonable rates. The government has invested in a bus service, which is adding many new routes.

Getting from the Airport to the City

Flights to Luanda are served by Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) which is located 3.7 miles (6 km) from the city centre. Car rental is available at the airport. Metered taxis can be hailed outside the single main terminal building. The drive to central Luanda takes 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Many hotels have free shuttle services to and from the airport.