Huambo - Discovering Angola

Travelling to Huambo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Huambo, a pretty good destination in Angola (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Huambo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Huambo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Angola, here's everything to know about Huambo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Huambo

Huambo is a city located in the central part of Angola. It is the second largest city in the country by area and the third largest by population, with an estimated population of approximately 1.2 million people. The city is situated on a plateau, which gives it a cooler climate compared to other parts of Angola. Huambo was founded by colonial settlers in the early 20th century and went on to become an important center for agriculture and industry in Angola. Today, it is still an important transportation hub and home to several universities, museums, and cultural institutions. Popular attractions in Huambo include the Nossa Senhora do Monte church, the Huambo Botanical Gardens, and the railway museum.

What to visit in Huambo

Huambo is a city located in central Angola, known for its beautiful natural parks and interesting history. Below are some of the top tourist attractions in Huambo: 1. Bimbe Fortress: This historic fortress was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century to protect their gold caravan routes. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress and learn about its importance as a colonial stronghold.
2. Kavongu River Waterfalls: Located about 15 km from Huambo, Kavongu River Waterfalls is a natural wonder that provides a beautiful opportunity for sightseeing, outdoor adventure, and picnic areas.
3. Sao Pedro Park: One of the city’s most beautiful parks, Sao Pedro Park is a great place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. The park has beautiful gardens and plenty of green spaces, including a small lake where visitors can paddleboat.
4. Cathedral of Huambo: Built in the neo-Romanesque style, the Cathedral of Huambo is a beautiful landmark that attracts many visitors. The Cathedral is decorated with beautiful stained glass windows, huge wooden doors, and a complex murals on the ceiling, features that makes it a must-see in the city.
5. Christ the King Statue: This imposing statue of Christ stands almost 30 meters tall and provides a panoramic view of the city. Visitors can climb the stairs of the statue and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding area.
6. Huambo Railway Station: And finally, the Huambo Railway Station is a historic landmark in the city. It was built in the early 20th century and is known for its beautiful architecture, especially the station's tower. Today, the station is still in use and visitors can ride on the train to nearby towns while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the countryside.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Huambo.

When to go on holiday to Huambo

The best time to visit Huambo, Angola is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, you can expect warm and sunny weather with very little rainfall. The temperature is usually between 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day and can drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night. This is an ideal time to explore the city and its surroundings, and to take advantage of outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and visiting local markets. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack some warm clothes and rain gear just in case.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Huambo

Huambo is a city located in the central region of Angola. There are primarily two ways to reach Huambo - by air and by road.
By Air: The Huambo Airport (also known as Albano Machado Airport) is located approximately 8 km south-west of the city center. Various airlines offer regular flights from Luanda to Huambo. The flight time from Luanda Airport to Huambo Airport is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
By Road: You can also travel to Huambo by road. There are several bus companies that offer services from Luanda to Huambo. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours. It is important to note that the roads in Angola are not always well-maintained, so it is advisable to use caution while driving.
Alternatively, you can also hire a private car or taxi to travel to Huambo. This may be a more comfortable and faster option, but could be more expensive.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Huambo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Huambo

- Muamba de Galinha: This is a popular dish in Angola and it is also a specialty in Huambo. It is made with chicken, palm oil, onions, garlic, okra, and other spices.
- Calulu: This is a traditional Angolan dish that is made with dried fish or meat, beans, and vegetables such as kale, onions, tomatoes, and eggplants. It is usually served with funge, which is a starchy porridge made from cassava flour.
- Pirão de Milho: This is a thick porridge made from cornmeal and it is usually served with a stew or soup.
- Carne de Porco à Alentejana: This dish is a mix of Portuguese and Angolan cuisine. It consists of pork, clams, potatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and coriander.
- Feijão de Óleo: This is a dish made with beans, palm oil, onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is usually served as a side dish or with rice.
- Mufete: This is a traditional Angolan meal that is usually served during special occasions. It consists of grilled fish, cassava leaves, and a peanut sauce.
- Espetada: This is a grilled beef or chicken skewer that is seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Grelhados Misto: This is a mixed grill consisting of beef, chicken, and pork that is seasoned with herbs and spices.
- Bolinhos de Mandioca: These are cassava balls that are stuffed with either beef or cheese and are deep-fried until golden brown.
- Pãozinho: These are mini bread rolls that are served warm and are perfect for soaking up the sauces from the main dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Angola here.

Is Huambo an expensive destination for tourists?

As a landlocked city in Angola, Huambo may be a bit more expensive compared to other destinations in the region. Prices for accommodations, food, and transportation might be higher due to limited competition and higher import costs, but the cost of living in Huambo is still relatively lower compared to major cities around the world. However, prices for goods and services may also vary based on exchange rates and availability. It's always a good idea to check prices and exchange rates before planning a trip to Huambo to ensure you have a realistic budget for your travel expenses.

Where to find accomodation in Huambo

In Huambo, some of the best areas to find accommodation include: 1. Central business district: This area has a good concentration of hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants, making it an ideal location for travelers who want easy access to various amenities.
2. Bairro da Tchavola: This is a peaceful residential neighborhood with many accommodation options that offer a quiet and serene environment.
3. Ferrovia (Railway station) Area: This area is close to the railway station and has many accommodation options, making it ideal for travelers who want easy access to transportation options.
4. Bairro da Joaquim Kapango: This is a growing area with modern and well-equipped hotel accommodation available to visitors. I hope this information is helpful to you.
You can check hotel prices at Huambo here:
Booking.com

Is Huambo a safe destination for tourists?

Huambo is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Angola, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions such as avoiding traveling alone at night and keeping your belongings secure. It's also a good idea to stay up to date on any travel advisories or warnings issued by your country's government. Additionally, it's recommended to hire a local guide or take an organized tour to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Angola here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Huambo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Huambo the most?

Huambo is a great destination for anyone interested in learning more about Angola's rich history and culture. However, due to its location, it may be more challenging to access than other tourist destinations in Angola. That being said, Huambo can be an excellent place for families and couples who enjoy exploring historical sites and museums. Younger people looking for nightlife and entertainment may find the nightlife scene is relatively quiet in Huambo, particularly compared to larger cities. Still, there are a few bars and cafes to explore. Overall, Huambo is best suited for travelers interested in historical and cultural experiences, particularly those traveling with family or partners.

How to get around Huambo

There are several transportation options to move around Huambo in Angola, including taxis, buses, and private cars. Taxis are the most popular, and you can easily find them on the streets. The buses, on the other hand, are relatively cheap, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Private cars are also available for rent, and they offer more flexibility and comfort, especially if you are traveling in a group or with luggage. Additionally, there are motorcycle taxis or "Candongueiros" that offer quick and cheap transportation, but they can also be risky and uncomfortable, particularly on rough roads.

What to see around Huambo

Sure, here are some great places you can visit on a day trip from Huambo in Angola: 1. Bom Jesus (14 km from Huambo) - a beautiful historical town with a stunning cathedral and architecture.
2. Benfica Waterfalls (24 km from Huambo) - a peaceful and refreshing waterfall surrounded by nature.
3. Serra da Chela (50 km from Huambo) - a stunning mountain range which offers some of the most picturesque views in Angola.
4. Tchitundo-Hulo rock paintings (60 km from Huambo) - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the rock art and cultural heritage of the Khoisan people.
5. Catabola Dam (65 km from Huambo) - a popular picnic spot with beautiful views of the lake, perfect for a relaxing day out.
6. Ecological Park Furadouro (70 km from Huambo) - a well-maintained park with diverse flora and fauna, offering great opportunities for nature lovers.
7. Cusseque River (80 km from Huambo) - a scenic river that provides a peaceful and calming atmosphere for those looking to unwind.
I hope that gave you some ideas for your day trips from Huambo!
For every travel information about Angola you can click here.

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