Angola, a country located in southern Africa, has a rich history and culture that attracts tourists from all over the world. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant cities, Angola has a lot to offer to travelers. However, the safety of tourists in Angola is a concern that many people have. In recent years, Angola has made significant progress in terms of security and stability, but there are still some areas that are considered high-risk. In this article, we will explore the safety of Angola as a tourist destination and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about visiting this beautiful country.
History of Safety Concerns in Angola
Angola has a long history of conflict and instability, which has led to safety concerns for tourists. The country was involved in a civil war from 1975 to 2002, which resulted in the deaths of millions of people and the displacement of many more. Although the war has ended, there are still some areas in the country that are considered high-risk due to the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance.
The conflict in Angola also led to the destruction of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. This has made it difficult for tourists to travel around the country, especially in rural areas. However, in recent years, the Angolan government has invested heavily in rebuilding the country’s infrastructure, including the construction of new roads and bridges.
Another safety concern in Angola is the presence of crime. Petty theft and robbery are common in major cities like Luanda and Benguela, and tourists have been targeted in the past. However, most crimes are opportunistic, and tourists can take simple precautions to avoid becoming victims.
Current Safety Situation in Angola
Despite the safety concerns mentioned above, Angola is generally a safe country to visit. The government has taken steps to improve security, including the deployment of additional police and military personnel in major cities. Additionally, the country has a well-established tourist infrastructure, with many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators catering to international visitors.
The Angolan government has also implemented various measures to improve security, including the creation of a tourist police unit. This unit is responsible for providing assistance to tourists and helping to prevent crimes against them. (See Also: Is It Safe To Visit Mecca? A Comprehensive Guide)
Angola has also made significant progress in terms of reducing crime. According to the World Bank, the country’s crime rate has decreased significantly over the past few years, making it one of the safest countries in Africa.
Areas to Avoid in Angola
While Angola is generally a safe country to visit, there are some areas that tourists should avoid. These include:
- The border regions with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, which are considered high-risk due to the presence of armed groups and landmines.
- The provinces of Huambo and Bie, which were affected by the civil war and still have a high concentration of landmines.
- The city of Cabinda, which has a history of separatist movements and has been the site of several attacks in the past.
Additionally, tourists should be aware of the following areas that are considered high-risk:
- The streets of Luanda at night, which are known for their high crime rates.
- The markets in major cities, which are often crowded and can be a target for pickpocketing and theft.
- The beaches in Luanda, which are known for their strong currents and rip tides.
Precautions to Take in Angola
To stay safe in Angola, tourists should take the following precautions:
- Research the area before traveling and stay informed about local conditions.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to get around.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use credit cards or traveler’s checks instead.
- Keep valuables secure and consider using a hotel safe or a money belt.
- Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewelry or watches.
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night.
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
Health and Medical Care in Angola
Angola has a well-established healthcare system, with many modern hospitals and medical facilities in major cities. However, medical care in rural areas can be limited, and tourists should take the following precautions:
- Make sure to have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Angola.
- Bring any prescription medications with you and make sure to have a copy of your prescription.
- Avoid eating undercooked meat or raw vegetables, which can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
- Use bottled or filtered water and avoid drinking tap water.
- Take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as malaria and dengue fever.
Conclusion
Angola is a beautiful and vibrant country that offers a unique cultural and historical experience for tourists. While there are some safety concerns, the country is generally a safe place to visit. By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed about local conditions, tourists can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Angola. (See Also: Is San Jose Costa Rica Safe to Visit? A Traveler’s Guide)
Recap of Key Points
Here are the key points to remember when considering a trip to Angola:
- Angola has a long history of conflict and instability, but the country is generally safe to visit.
- The government has taken steps to improve security, including the deployment of additional police and military personnel.
- There are some areas that tourists should avoid, including the border regions with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.
- Precautions should be taken to stay safe, including researching the area before traveling and staying informed about local conditions.
- Angola has a well-established healthcare system, but medical care in rural areas can be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Angola safe to visit?
Is Angola safe for tourists?
Yes, Angola is generally a safe country to visit. The government has taken steps to improve security, and tourists can take simple precautions to stay safe.
What are the areas to avoid in Angola?
The areas to avoid in Angola include the border regions with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, the provinces of Huambo and Bie, and the city of Cabinda.
What precautions should I take in Angola?
To stay safe in Angola, tourists should research the area before traveling, use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep valuables secure.
Is medical care in Angola good?
Angola has a well-established healthcare system, but medical care in rural areas can be limited. Tourists should make sure to have all necessary vaccinations before traveling and take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses. (See Also: Which Countries in South America Are Safe to Visit? Top Travel Destinations)
Can I drink the tap water in Angola?
No, tourists should not drink tap water in Angola. Bottled or filtered water should be used instead.
Is it safe to walk alone in Angola?
No, it is not recommended to walk alone in Angola, especially at night. Tourists should stay in well-lit and populated areas and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.