Namibe - Discovering Angola

Travelling to Namibe

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

General info for a trip to Namibe

Namibe is a coastal province located in the southwestern region of Angola. It has a population of approximately 349,000 people and covers an area of around 58,000 square kilometers. The province is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The city of Namibe is the provincial capital and is home to various historical sites and museums, including Forte de Sao Fernando and the National Museum of Natural History. The region's economy is mainly focused on fishing, agriculture, and tourism. Namibe is a great destination for nature lovers, who can explore the desert landscapes of the Namib-Naukluft National Park and the unique flora and fauna of the Iona National Park.

What to visit in Namibe

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Namibe, Angola with some general information about each: 1. Praia Azul - A beautiful beach located in the town of Namibe that offers clear blue waters, white sand, and opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
2. Iona National Park - A vast protected area that boasts diverse landscapes, including deserts, canyons, and rivers. Visitors can view a range of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
3. Tchitundo-Hulo Petroglyphs - A UNESCO World Heritage Site that features over 1,000 rock carvings dating back to the 3rd and 2nd millennia BCE. The carvings depict scenes from daily life, animals, and symbols.
4. Forte de Sao Fernando - A fortress constructed by the Portuguese in the 17th century to defend against attacks by other European powers. Visitors can see the remains of the fort's walls and cannons.
5. Tombwa - A coastal town located south of Namibe that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and has a lively fishing industry. Visitors can sample fresh seafood and take boat tours to nearby islands.
6. Namibe Desert - A desert that covers a large portion of Namibe Province, featuring sand dunes and unique rock formations. Visitors can go on desert safaris and see different types of vegetation and wildlife that thrive in this arid landscape.
7. Baia dos Tigres - A deserted island located off the coast of Namibe that was once a thriving fishing community before being abandoned due to flooding. Visitors can explore the ruins of the town and see the remains of the old harbor.
Overall, Namibe has a lot to offer travelers looking for natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences.

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

When to go on holiday to Namibe

The best time to travel to Namibe is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is little to no rainfall. The temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) in the day and drop to around 15°C (59°F) at night. It's important to note that Namibe climate is quite arid, and rainfall is scarce throughout the year.

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

How to get to Namibe

To get to Namibe in Angola, you can take a flight to the Namibe airport, which is located in the city center. There are several airlines that operate flights to Namibe, including TAAG Angola Airlines, Air Namibia, and South African Airways.
Alternatively, you can use land transportation options such as buses or private cars. There are regular bus services that operate from Luanda, Angola's capital, to Namibe. The journey can take up to 20 hours, depending on the route and the stops.
If you are driving a private car, you can follow the main road that connects Luanda to Namibe. The journey can take up to 13 hours, depending on the conditions of the road and the stops you make along the way.
I would recommend you to verify beforehand the current state of security, road conditions and weather alerts to ensure a safe and smooth trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Namibe, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Namibe

Namibe is a province located in the southwestern part of Angola, and it is famous for its seafood and unique dishes. Here are some typical foods of Namibe with brief descriptions: 1. Caldeirada - a seafood stew made with shrimp, fish, mussels, and vegetables, typically served with rice.
2. Muamba de Galinha - a chicken stew made with palm oil, onion, tomato, garlic, and herbs, served with rice, funge (a type of cornmeal porridge), or cassava.
3. Arroz de Marisco - a seafood rice dish made with shrimp, squid, and crab meat.
4. Caril de Cabrito - a goat meat curry made with coconut milk, spices, and served with rice or funge.
5. Pirão de Peixe - a thick fish soup made with cassava flour, fish, and vegetables, traditionally eaten with hands.
6. Cabrito Assado - roasted goat meat served with rice, vegetables, and hot sauce.
7. Matata - a traditional stew made with cassava leaves, peanut butter, and spices, served with rice or cassava.
8. Chamussas - an Angolan version of samosas, typically filled with ground beef, chicken or vegetables, and deep-fried until crispy.
9. Xerém - a savory cornmeal porridge made with beans, chicken, or beef, and served with rice or vegetables.
10. Ovos com Chouriço - scrambled eggs with linguiça sausage served with bread.
You can find general info about typical foods in Angola here.

Is Namibe an expensive destination for tourists?

Namibe, Angola can be considered an expensive destination for tourists as it is a remote location and has limited tourism infrastructure. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be higher compared to other destinations in Angola. However, it is worth considering that Namibe has beautiful beaches, landscapes, and wildlife, which can make the trip worthwhile. It is advisable to plan and budget accordingly before traveling to Namibe.

Where to find accomodation in Namibe

Namibe, Angola is a coastal city located in the southwestern area of the country. The best areas to find accommodation will depend on your preferences and activities you plan to do during your visit. If you want to stay near the beach, then the areas of Praia Morena, Boca do Rio, and Tômbwa are ideal. These areas offer easy access to beaches and seaside activities such as fishing and water sports.
For those interested in the cultural and historical aspect of Namibe, the central district with its colonial-era architecture is a good choice. You can find accommodations near Rua da Independencia, which is the main street of the city center.
For nature enthusiasts, it is best to find accommodation near the Serra da Leba mountain range or the nearby Iona National Park. These areas offer outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching.
Overall, it is recommended to choose accommodations that are well-located, safe, and comfortable.
You can check hotel prices at Namibe here:
Booking.com

Is Namibe a safe destination for tourists?

Namibe, Angola is considered a relatively safe location for tourists. However, like any location, it's always important to exercise caution and use your best judgment when traveling. It is recommended to stay in reputable accommodations, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables secure. It's also a good idea to be aware of local laws and customs, and to be mindful of your surroundings. Overall, Namibe is a beautiful destination with a unique culture and history, and as long as you take sensible precautions, you should have 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 Namibe.

What type of travelers will enjoy Namibe the most?

Namibe, Angola is a unique destination that offers something for everyone. However, the type of traveler that will enjoy Namibe the most will depend on their interests and preferences. Namibe's incredible natural surroundings, including beaches, sand dunes, and national parks, make it a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Therefore, adventurous travelers, including young people looking for fun, will definitely enjoy visiting this area.
Additionally, Namibe has a rich cultural heritage that includes museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks. Travelers interested in learning about Angola's history and culture will find Namibe to be a fascinating destination.
While Namibe can be an enjoyable place for couples, families, and solo travelers, solo travelers, couples, and groups of friends are more typical travelers to this area. Namibe isn't a family-oriented destination, but families can still enjoy the natural landscapes and cultural sites. Overall, Namibe is an exciting travel destination that provides experiences for a wide range of travelers.

How to get around Namibe

In Namibe, the primary mode of transportation is usually taxis and private cars. However, you can also hire a rental car or a driver to take you around. The city also has a few buses and mini-buses, but they may not necessarily stick to a timetable. Additionally, it's essential to note that most of the roads in Namibe are not in good condition, so some caution is necessary when driving.

What to see around Namibe

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Namibe, Angola: 1. Tombua - A fishing village known for its beautiful beach and clear waters. It's located about 30 km south of Namibe.
2. Baia dos Tigres - A deserted island with beautiful, white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. It's located about 100 km south of Namibe.
3. Iona National Park - A stunning nature reserve with rugged landscapes covered in dunes, canyons and unique desert flora and fauna. It's located about 65 km north of Namibe.
4. Tchitundo-Hulo - This UNESCO World Heritage site features ancient rock paintings and engravings from the Kung people. It's located about 60 km east of Namibe.
5. Praia da Virei - A beautiful, secluded beach with crystal clear waters and soft sand. It's located about 70 km north of Namibe. All of these places are great options for a day trip from Namibe, Angola.
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.