Official advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas

  • Reviewed: 16 January 2023, 14:39 NZDT
  • Still current at: 29 March 2024

Related news features

COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces of Cabinda, Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul due to the risk of civil unrest and violent crime (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Angola due to violent crime (level 2 of 4).

View Larger Map Close/Open map

Angola

Violent Crime
There is a high level of crime in Angola, especially in the capital Luanda, and often involve violence. Armed robbery, assault, carjackings and muggings are common. Incidents of rape have occurred. Armed criminals target stationary or slow-moving cars for smash and grab robberies. Incidents can occur at any time of the day but are more prevalent at night. Areas frequented by foreigners are particular targets.

You should exercise particular vigilance when withdrawing money from banks and ATMs or exchanging cash, do not withdraw large sums of cash. As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices, cameras and jewellery. When travelling by car, it is advisable to keep doors locked and windows up at all times and hide valuables from view. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery, carjacking or mugging as this could lead to an escalation in violence.

New Zealanders are advised not to travel outside the capital Luanda unless you have made adequate security arrangements with a reliable organisation that is familiar with local conditions. Avoid use of public transportation, including “candongueiros” or “taxistas” (multi-passenger vans).

We recommend you avoid walking alone and travelling after dark and to isolated areas. Avoid walking between bars and restaurants at night on the Ilha, near Luanda.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing does occur, including outside the arrivals and departures gates at the Luanda airport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

Kidnapping
Kidnappings have occurred Angola, including in and around Luanda, victims are usually foreigners. They are often taken from their vehicle by criminals motivated by financial gain through ransom demands. Be wary of any attempts to stop your vehicle.

Civil Unrest
The provinces of Cabinda, Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul have particular security concerns. Armed groups are active in Cabinda and there have been reports of violent attacks targeting foreigners in all three provinces. They have warned that attacks will continue.

Demonstrations, protests and strikes occur from time to time in Angola, including in Luanda. New Zealanders in Angola are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Monitor local media and follow advice or instructions from any local authorities.

Local travel
The Government of Angola restricts the entry of foreigners into the diamond producing areas of Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul provinces. The presence of foreigners in these areas may create tension The presence of diamonds increases levels of crime and banditry. There is also the potential for civil unrest. Official documentation giving authorisation for travel to these areas is required. Failure to meet these requirements may result in detention or restrictions on your movements.

Landmines
Landmines and unexploded munitions present a hazard outside major cities, particularly common in the southern provinces and areas bordering Zambia.  We recommend you remain on well-used roads and paths as mined areas are often unmarked.

Basic necessities
Shortages of fuel, power and water may occur, sometimes for days without notice. Drinking water and other food supplies are not always readily available, you should plan accordingly.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Angola, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited.

We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Angola should consider.

Photography of government buildings is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture. It is also illegal to use cameras, binoculars, GPS devices or maps near government buildings or infrastructure.

Make sure to carry a form of up to date, certified identification with you at all times, as police and military check points are common. Failure to produce one could result in a fine or arrest.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can be severe.

There are limited ATMs in Angola and credit cards are only accepted in a limited number of hotels and restaurants.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Angola should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. Medical facilities and services may be limited outside of Luanda.

New Zealanders in Angola are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips


The New Zealand High Commission Pretoria, South Africa is accredited to Angola

Street Address 125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa Postal Address Private Bag X27, Brooklyn Square 0075, Pretoria, South Africa Telephone +27 12 435 9000 Email enquiries@nzhc.co.za Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/south-africa Hours Mon - Fri 0800 - 1630hrs

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Luanda, Angola

Street Address Avenida Murtala Mohamed, Ex-Case Deportiva #320. Telephone +244 924 829 856 Email nzconsulate@eqm-lda.com

See our regional advice for Africa

Share this page:

Related News features

Accredited New Zealand High Commission South Africa

Street Address
125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa

Telephone: +27 12 435 9000

Email: enquiries@nzhc.co.za

Website: http://www.mfat.govt.nz/south-africa

Hours: Mon - Fri 0800 - 1630hrs

Related advice from other countries

Share this page:

Other pages in this section: