Angola - Facts
- A previous Portuguese colony, The Republic of Angola has been an independent nation since 1975. Since then it has been riven by civil wars although these officially ceased in 2001.
- It is situated on the west coast of Africa, between Namibia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean.
- The country’s principal port is Luanda
- Portuguese is the official language of the country.
- Although rich in oil and mineral reserves, Angola’s population is one of the poorest in the world.
- There are no yachting facilities and a stop at a port here should only be considered if absolutely necessary.
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Posted on behalf of Christian Alby:
Concerning security in Angola Coast from Luanda down to the Cunene river down South: no problem whatsoever with piracy or theft in ports, sailing or whilst riding at anchor in isolated anchorages. Plenty of unused fisheries along the coast. Fishermen are friendly and when met offshore will be happy to sell part of their catch or exchange for water & food. They stay up to three days 30nm offshore in open deck wooden boats 18 to 20′.
Be extra careful with charts and information when looking for anchorages and be mindful of sea swells when going ashore in a dinghy. Strong currents and heavy swells can create havoc when beaching or launching.
Just the usual warnings in cities at night. Wear nothing flashy, carry little cash, get information on places to avoid. When in the country, respect the people and the hierarchy: go for the boss (otherwise called ‘Soba’) of the village and present yourself and you will be most welcome as they will make sure that all around know who the strangers are.
Concerning the coast North of Angola, best to avoid the entrance to the Congo river – Cabinda – as armed groups are still active and Angolan Navy are suspicious of illegal entry. There is a little piracy in Congo also, attracted by the offshore oil installations.
Great place for hiking and discovering, but a little poor for sailing (little wind) but in exchange very rarely hit by storms. You see them coming from the North with good advance notice (storm clouds). Not cheap though when looking for imported stuff as the country is struggling with heavy debts draining foreign currency availability (oil trouble since 2014).
Visas can be obtained when entering a port of entry for a limited period (time for repairs & stores) and location (port and town). If wishing to visit inland you will need to apply for a tourist visa normally available only from the consulate in your country of origin! Can be obtained from the consulate in RSA, with the help of an agent or with proper documentation including invitation by Angolan Yacht Club. Better be careful with this as local authorities can be touchy about foreigners and documentation.
Same applies with customs: proper documentation with loads of official stamps eases the way in and out.
Hope this helps clear the way to Angola. Not great as a destination, but can be accessed on the way from Cape Town back to the Caribbean.
Christian Alby – France
For sailors coming from the South (Namibia, RSA) the ports of Namibe & Lobito can be also used as ports of entry as immigration, customs & Coastguard services are present. Often easier than Luanda (small towns) with good facilities in Lobito at the Clube Nautico da Restinga.