Best Places to Visit in Angola for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Angola may be looking for places to soak up the holiday spirit. While Angola may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of Christmas celebrations, there are several spots where the festive mood is palpable, and the local traditions add a unique flavor to the holiday experience. From bustling markets to vibrant parades, here are some of the best places to visit in Angola during December to get into the holiday spirit.

Luanda's Marginal

Luanda, the capital city of Angola, offers a festive atmosphere along its picturesque seaside promenade known as the Marginal. During December, the area is adorned with holiday lights and decorations, creating a cheerful environment for evening strolls. The city often hosts a variety of Christmas events, including concerts and family-friendly activities. While there isn't a traditional holiday market, the local shops and street vendors offer a range of festive goods and gifts, perfect for those last-minute holiday purchases.

We Recommend: Don't miss the opportunity to try some local Angolan treats from the street vendors, such as the delicious ginguba (roasted peanuts) which are often enjoyed during the festive season.

Benguela's Praça da Liberdade

Benguela, a charming city on Angola's Atlantic coast, becomes particularly lively during the holidays. The Praça da Liberdade, or Liberty Square, is the heart of the city's Christmas celebrations. Here, you can find a festive market selling traditional Angolan crafts, textiles, and seasonal treats. The square is beautifully lit, and local choirs often perform, adding to the holiday ambiance. The Christmas market is a great place to pick up unique gifts and sample local cuisine.

We Recommend: Be sure to taste the traditional Angolan honey cake, a sweet treat that's especially popular during the holiday season.

Lubango's Christ the King Statue

In the southern highlands of Angola, Lubango offers a serene holiday experience. The city is known for its Christ the King statue, which is similar to the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. During December, the area around the statue is decorated with festive lights, and locals gather to celebrate the season with music and dance. The panoramic views of the city from the statue are particularly breathtaking during the holiday evenings when the city lights twinkle below.

We Recommend: Enjoy the panoramic views of Lubango at night when the city is illuminated with festive lights, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.

Huambo's Central Park

Huambo, Angola's second-largest city, offers a peaceful holiday setting with its lush Central Park. During December, the park becomes a gathering place for families and friends to enjoy the holiday decorations and the pleasant weather of the Angolan summer. While there isn't a specific holiday market, the surrounding streets are filled with vendors selling seasonal goods and festive foods.

We Recommend: Try the local street food delicacies such as chikuanga, a traditional bread made from cassava, which is often enjoyed during festive times.

Kwanza Sul's Sumbe Beach

For those looking to combine holiday festivities with a beach getaway, Sumbe Beach in Kwanza Sul province is an excellent choice. The beach area is known for its relaxed atmosphere and during December, local hotels and restaurants often host special holiday events, including beach barbecues and live music. It's a great way to experience a different side of Christmas, with toes in the sand and the sound of waves in the background.

We Recommend: Participate in a beach barbecue event, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Angolan dishes while celebrating the festive season.

Lobito's Restinga Peninsula

The coastal city of Lobito, with its picturesque Restinga Peninsula, offers a unique holiday experience. The peninsula, with its mix of colonial architecture and modern developments, is beautifully decorated during December. Local businesses and restaurants get into the holiday spirit, offering special menus and festive entertainment. The warm weather and ocean views provide a perfect backdrop for holiday celebrations.

We Recommend: Enjoy a festive meal at one of the restaurants on the Restinga Peninsula, where you can savor fresh seafood along with traditional Angolan dishes in a holiday setting.

Cabinda's Maiombe Forest

For a more unconventional holiday experience, visit the Maiombe Forest in the Cabinda province. While it's not your typical Christmas destination, the lush rainforest offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Local communities in the area celebrate with their own traditions and customs, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.

We Recommend: Take a guided tour of the Maiombe Forest to learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural traditions of the indigenous communities during the holiday season.

Angola may not have the snowy landscapes or the traditional Christmas markets found in other parts of the world, but it offers a warm and festive holiday experience with its own unique traditions. Whether you're looking for lively city celebrations or a peaceful retreat, these destinations in Angola provide a memorable backdrop for expats and digital nomads to enjoy the holiday season.