Luanda, AngolaTips for Expats Driving in Luanda
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Luanda.
1. Understanding the Traffic
Driving in Luanda can be quite challenging due to the heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. The roads are often congested and the driving habits of locals can be unpredictable. It's important to be patient and alert at all times.
2. Car Recommendation
It's recommended to have a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to travel outside of Luanda, as the road conditions can be poor. However, within the city, a regular car should suffice. It's also advisable to have a car with good air conditioning due to the hot climate.
3. Parking Situation
Finding parking in Luanda can be difficult, especially in the city center. Some areas may have designated parking spaces, but they are often full. Parking is not typically expensive, but it's important to ensure your car is parked in a safe and secure location.
4. Driving License
Foreigners can drive in Angola with an international driving license for up to 90 days. After this period, you will need to obtain a local driving license. To get a local license, you will need to pass a driving test and provide necessary documents such as your passport and residence permit.
5. Road Conditions
Road conditions in Luanda can vary. While main roads are generally in good condition, secondary roads can be poorly maintained. Be prepared for potholes and other road hazards. Also, street signs and traffic signals may not always be clear or consistent.
6. Safety Precautions
It's important to always lock your car doors and keep your windows up, especially when driving at night. Carjacking and theft can be a concern in certain areas. Also, avoid driving at night if possible, as roads are not always well-lit and pedestrians can be hard to see.
7. Fuel Availability
While fuel is generally available in Luanda, there can be occasional shortages. It's a good idea to keep your tank at least half full and know the locations of multiple fuel stations.
8. Navigation
Having a reliable GPS or navigation system is highly recommended. Street names can change frequently and many locals use landmarks rather than street names for directions.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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