Menongue - Discovering Angola

Travelling to Menongue

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Menongue, 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 Menongue 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 Menongue, 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 Menongue for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Menongue

Menongue is the capital city of the province of Cuando Cubango in southern Angola. It is located in a plateau region and is surrounded by hills, forests, and rivers. The city has a population of approximately 50,000 people and is known for its diverse ethnic and cultural heritage. The main languages spoken in Menongue are Portuguese, Umbundu and Tchokwe. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. Tourist attractions in the area include natural parks, waterfalls, historical sites, and traditional markets.

What to visit in Menongue

Menongue is a city located in the southeastern part of Angola, and here are some of the tourist attractions you could visit: 1. Cuito Cuanavale Battlefield This battlefield is a historical site that commemorates the battles fought in Angola’s civil war, and it is located about 160 km from Menongue. It was the site of one of the biggest battles in Africa in the 20th century, where Angola’s government forces, assisted by Cuban soldiers, defeated the rebel forces.
2. Cacimba de Vaca Waterfall This is a beautiful waterfall located near Menongue that offers a unique opportunity to enjoy nature’s beauty. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery that is perfect for a picnic with friends and family.
3. Menongue Museum This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Ovimbundu people and their contribution to the development of Angola. It's a great way to learn about the local culture and traditions.
4. Mavengue Market This is the largest open-air market in Menongue and offers a great opportunity to buy souvenirs and local produce. The market is bustling with activity and is a great place to experience the local culture.
5. Tundavala Gap This is a breathtaking natural wonder located about 80 km from Menongue. It's a deep gap with a sheer drop of over 1,000 meters and provides an amazing panoramic view of the stunning landscape. It's a popular destination for tourists and a must-visit when in Menongue.
6. Cuiva Lake This is a beautiful lake located near Menongue and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The tranquility and beauty of the lake make it a great place to relax and unwind.
7. Menongue Cathedral This is a beautiful church that serves as the main place of worship in Menongue. It is built in the colonial-style architecture and represents the rich history and heritage of the city.
8. Conservation Area of Mavinga This is a protected area located in the southeast of Angola, and it's home to many exotic species of flora and fauna, some of which are found only in this region. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
These are some of the fascinating tourist attractions you might want to explore while in Menongue.

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

When to go on holiday to Menongue

The best time to visit Menongue, Angola is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). It is important to note that Menongue may experience sporadic rain showers even during the dry season, so it is best to pack accordingly. The wet season, which lasts from October to April, can be quite humid and wet. The heavy rain may lead to flooding, which can make traveling difficult.

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

How to get to Menongue

Menongue is the capital of the province of Cuando Cubango, located in the south-eastern region of Angola. The easiest way to get to Menongue is by air. There are several international airports in Angola, such as Luanda's Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport, which offers domestic flights to Menongue. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Luanda to Menongue, which takes around 24 hours. This option is less comfortable than flying, but it offers the opportunity to see some of the country's landscape. Another option would be to hire a private car and driver to take you to Menongue. However, it's important to note that road conditions in Angola can be challenging, so this can be a risky option.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Menongue, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Menongue

Here are some typical foods from Menongue, Angola: 1. Pirão: A thick, cornmeal-based porridge that is often served with fish, meat or vegetables.
2. Moamba: A spicy stew made with chicken or beef, palm oil, garlic, onions and various seasonings. It is typically served with rice or cassava.
3. Calulu: A dish made with dried fish, onions, tomatoes, garlic, okra and various other vegetables. It is often thickened with cassava leaves and served with rice.
4. Cabrito Assado: Roast kid (young goat) seasoned with garlic and served with rice or funge.
5. Funge: A starchy porridge made with cassava flour and water. It is typically served with stews or grilled meats.
6. Muamba de Ginguba: This is a traditional Angolan dish made with chicken and peanut sauce. It is often served with rice or funge.
7. Mufete: A seafood platter consisting of grilled or boiled lobster or crab, prawns and fish.
8. Bolinho de Mandioca: A fried cassava fritter, sometimes stuffed with meat or cheese.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and diverse food you can find in Menongue, Angola!
You can find general info about typical foods in Angola here.

Is Menongue an expensive destination for tourists?

Menongue, Angola is generally considered an expensive destination for tourists due to its limited tourism infrastructure and high cost of living. Accommodation, transportation, and food can be quite expensive in comparison to other destinations in the region. It is also important to keep in mind the cost of visas and vaccinations needed to enter Angola. However, there are some budget-friendly accommodation options and it is possible to find affordable food and transportation if you plan ahead and shop around.

Where to find accomodation in Menongue

Menongue is the capital city of the Cuando Cubango province in Angola. There are a few options for accommodation in the city, but the best areas to find accommodation would be in the city center or close to the airport. Some of the popular hotels in Menongue include the Hotel Jardim do Eden, the Hotel Millennium, and the Hotel Ekuikui I. If you prefer to stay in a more residential area, you could also look for accommodations in the neighborhoods of Morro Bento or Maculusso, which are located on the outskirts of the city center.
You can check hotel prices at Menongue here:
Booking.com

Is Menongue a safe destination for tourists?

Menongue is generally considered a safe place for tourists, though it is important to exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas. It is always a good idea to check with the local authorities or your hotel before venturing out to explore Menongue. It is also recommended to choose reputable tour guides and transportation options to 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 Menongue.

What type of travelers will enjoy Menongue the most?

Menongue, Angola is a great destination for adventurous and curious travelers who want to experience the culture and history of Angola. It may not be the best choice for couples or young people looking for a lively party scene, but families or groups of friends who enjoy outdoor activities, hiking, and sightseeing can have a wonderful time in Menongue.
Menongue is a city surrounded by beautiful landscapes and wildlife, such as the Cuito River, the Queve River, and the Bicuar National Park. Visitors can explore its unique local markets, traditional villages, and historical landmarks like the Monument of Santa Comba. Additionally, if visitors want to learn more about the history and culture of Angola, it might be worth a visit to the Museum of Eastern Angola - Museu do Leste Angolano.
Overall, Menongue is a destination that may cater better to travelers who are passionate about nature, history, and culture, rather than parties or nightlife.

How to get around Menongue

In Menongue, you can move around by taxi, motorcycle taxi (known as "kupapata"), or rental car. There is no public transportation system available. Please note that roads in the city may not be well-maintained and traffic can be congested, especially during peak hours. It is recommended to use a reputable taxi or rental car company for transportation.

What to see around Menongue

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Menongue, Angola: 1. Tundavala Gap: This natural wonder is located about 35km from Menongue and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and landscape.
2. Caverna do Morro do Moco: This cave is the deepest in Angola and is located about 80km from Menongue. It's a great place for hiking and exploring.
3. Luiana Partial Reserve: This reserve is located about 65km from Menongue and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
4. Forte de Sã Brás: This historic fort is located in the town of Cuito Cuanavale, about 155km from Menongue. It played an important role in the Angolan civil war and is now a museum.
5. Cuangar Falls: This waterfall is located about 200km from Menongue and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
6. Kalandula Falls: This waterfall is located about 400km from Menongue and is one of the largest in Africa. It's a great place to admire the natural beauty of Angola.
I hope these suggestions help with planning your day trips from Menongue!
For every travel information about Angola you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.