Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in Angola, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Angola is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Since the end of the civil war in 2002, overland access to the interior has improved considerably. Nonetheless, highways in some areas remain poor and the infrastructure for travelers is poor or nonexistent. 

Road travel can be dangerous, especially during the rainy season (October - March), which can cause large potholes and erosion. Landmines remain a problem on some secondary roads in more remote areas. Road conditions vary widely outside the capital from acceptable paved surfaces to virtually impassable dirt roads, particularly secondary routes. Many secondary roads, including those in urban areas, can become impassable during the rainy season. Overloaded, poorly marked, and disabled vehicles, as well as pedestrians and livestock, pose hazards for motorists. Gas stations are available on major routes; however, the availability of mechanic and emergency services is extremely limited. Ground travel in rural areas should be undertaken during daylight hours only. Areas with suspected landmines are generally clearly marked and travelers should heed these warnings. However, unexploded ordnance and unmapped mines remain a serious threat. Primary roads are considered to be landmine free in most provinces, but travelers should not venture far from the margins of the road. Extensive government, commercial, and NGO demining projects continue throughout the country.

Traffic in Luanda is very heavy and often chaotic, and roads are often in poor condition. Few intersections have traffic lights or police to direct vehicles. Drivers often fail to obey traffic signals and signs and there are frequent vehicle breakdowns, a problem exacerbated by missing manhole covers and large potholes. Street vendors, scooters, motorcycles, and pedestrians often weave in and out of traffic, posing a danger to themselves and to drivers. Avoid most public transportation, including buses and van taxis, as the vehicles are generally crowded and may be unreliable.

U.S. tourists to Angola may drive using a U.S. license for one month only, after which they should apply for an Angolan driving license. 

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Angola, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Angola’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

The U.S. Embassy in Luanda permits the use of Angolan-owned-and-operated commercial air transportation by U.S. government personnel.