Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
- Reviewed: 4 March 2022, 11:22 NZDT
- Still current at: 4 March 2022
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If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.
Avoid non-essential travel in the provinces of Cabinda, North Lunda and South Lunda due to violent crime, banditry and kidnapping.
Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Angola due to violent crime.
Angola
Violent Crime
There is a high level of violent crime in Angola, especially in the capital Luanda. Armed robbery, assault, carjackings and muggings are common. Incidents can occur at any time of the day but are more prevalent at night.
The provinces of Cabinda, North Lunda and South Lunda have particular security concerns. Armed groups are active in Cabinda and there have been reports in the past of violent attacks targeting foreigners in all three provinces.
New Zealanders are advised not to travel outside the capital Luanda unless you have made adequate security arrangements with a reliable organisation that is familiar with local conditions. Avoid use of public transportation, including “candongueiros” or “taxistas” (multi-passenger vans).
We recommend you avoid walking alone and travelling after dark and to isolated areas. Avoid walking between bars and restaurants at night on the Ilha, near Luanda. You should avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery. Exercise particular vigilance when withdrawing money from ATMs or exchanging cash.
No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery, carjacking or mugging as this could lead to an escalation in violence. New Zealanders should be aware that areas frequented by foreigners are particular targets and crowded places, such as markets, should be avoided.
Petty crime such as pickpocketing does occur, including outside the arrivals and departures gates at the Luanda airport.
Kidnapping
Kidnappings have occurred Angola, including in and around Luanda, with foreigners being taken from their vehicle by criminals motivated by financial gain through ransom demands. When travelling by car, it is advisable to keep doors locked and windows up at all times and hide valuables from view. Be wary of any attempts to stop your vehicle.
Civil Unrest
Demonstrations, protests and strikes occur from time to time in Angola, including in Luanda. New Zealanders in Angola are advised to avoid all demonstrations and protests as they have the potential to turn violent. Monitor local media and follow advice or instructions from any local authorities.
Landmines
Landmines and unexploded munitions present a hazard outside major cities, particularly common in the southern provinces and areas bordering Zambia. We recommend you remain on well-used roads and paths as mined areas are often unmarked.
General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Angola, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited.
We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Angola should consider.
The Government of Angola restricts the entry of foreigners into the diamond producing areas of North and South Lunda provinces. The presence of diamonds increases levels of crime and banditry. Official documentation giving authorisation for travel to these areas is required. Failure to meet these requirements may result in detention or restrictions on your movements.
Photography of government buildings is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.
Make sure to carry a form of up to date identification with you at all times, as police and military check points are common. Failure to produce one could result in a fine or arrest.
There are limited ATMs in Angola and credit cards are only accepted in a limited number of hotels and restaurants, although this is increasing.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Angola should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. Medical facilities and services may be limited outside of Luanda.
New Zealanders in Angola are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Travel tips
The New Zealand High Commission Pretoria, South Africa is accredited to Angola
Street Address 125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa Postal Address Private Bag X27, Brooklyn Square 0075, Pretoria, South Africa Telephone +27 12 435 9000 Fax +27 12 435 9002 Email enquiries@nzhc.co.za Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/south-africa Hours Mon – Fri 0800 – 1630hrs
New Zealand Honorary Consulate Luanda, Angola
Street Address Avenida Murtala Mohamed, Ex-Case Deportiva #320. Telephone +244 924 829 856 Email nzconsulate@eqm-lda.com
See our regional advice for Africa
