Book cheap flights to Lubango

Lubango experiences a sub-tropical dry climate, making the ideal time to travel between May and September when temperatures are cool and pleasant, and there is no chance of heavy rainfall. If you’d like to catch the locals in action, the Lubango Festival, running for the entire month of August, features local music performances, fashion parades, sports events and the prominent Miss Huila beauty pageant.

South African passport holders do need a Visa to enter Angola. Leave plenty of time for Visa processing, and make sure your passport is valid for 6 months after your return date, and that you have 3 blank pages available for entry stamps. The following documents are required with your visa application:

1) Application form duly completed and signed by the applicant.

2) Valid passport.

3) Two recent passport-sized colour photographs.

4) Copy of itinerary.

5) Hotel booking/ invitation letter.

6) Yellow Fever Vaccination card.

7) Bank statement.

Please consult the embassy website for further information.

Lubango is no different to any other city in the heart of Africa and general caution and vigilance should be practised. Robberies and muggings have been known to occur, particularly at entry and exit points around the city. Tourists should dress modestly and not flash any jewellery or expensive equipment that might attract unwanted attention. Avoid walking around at night; rather arrange a shuttle service from your hotel.

Door-to-door taxis are not easily available and are expensive, so if you are staying for a few days, it is recommended you hire a car with a driver.

Due to a history of civil warfare in Angola, the city is scattered with remaining landmines. To avoid possible contact with hazardous areas, stick to main roads and avoid travelling along unclearly sign-posted paths.

The only required vaccination to Lubango is Yellow Fever. It is recommended to be vaccinated against Typhoid and to take anti-Malaria medication. Be cautious of eating uncooked food, especially meat and vegetables. Tap water is untreated, so stick to bottled mineral water.

Being one of the less popular cities in Angola, Lubango’s tourism has been slow to flourish. As a result, there is not a wide variety of accommodation options. Nonetheless, most of the lodging options offer superb views and comfort, where you’ll find yourself nestled in the lush valley, surrounded by Mother Nature.

Most accommodation is to be found in the city centre. You can find mid-range to more luxurious selections, with most hotels offering free breakfast. You’ll be welcomed with open arms by the locals who will happily go out of their way to assist you. There are some great coffee shops and nightclubs to explore when you’re done shopping at the local markets.

Note that credit cards are not accepted at all hotels and restaurants, but most places do accept US Dollars. For a standard room with hot showers and basic amenities, you can expect to pay around $100 per night.

Lubango is serviced by shared taxis within the city. Another option is to hire personal taxis marked “Particular”. Walking around town is also a good way to explore Lubango. Bus services are available from Lubito and “SGO” – the more comfortable option.