Angola
After 16 years of civil war, reconstruction of this beautiful country is an immediate priority. Although facilities are still limited, Angola is an exciting destination to visit.
In Luanda the main places to visit are the fortress, the National Museums of Anthropology, and the Museum of Slavery along the coast from Luanda.
The Kissama National Park lies 70km south of Luanda and is home to a great variety of game. Angola has superb beaches. Luanda itself is built around a bay and there are bathing beaches five minutes from the city centre. Watersports are possible on the Mussulo Peninsula. The beach at Paleirinhas, 45 km south of Luanda is worth a visit. Fishing here and Santiago, north of Luanda is very good.
Many hotels have recently undergone refurbishment and there are several nightclubs and cinemas in Luanda.
Population: Angola has an estimated population of 17 831 million (2010)
Size: 1 247 000 km2
Neighbouring Countries: Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, the Republic of Congo and Namibia.
Language: The official language is Portuguese but Umbundu, Kimbundu, Kikongo Tchokwe, Ovambo are also spoken
Capital City: Luanda
Airport: Luanda
Socio Economic statistics: Situated right on the Atlantic Ocean, Angola is a budding tourist destination with unspoilt beaches, teeming game reserves and a vibrant culture.
Rapidly revitalising itslef ater the end of the civil war in 2001, the country has one of the fastest growing economies in the world, offering adventurous exploration and lucrative tourism investment opportunities.
Economy: Oil exports, diamond, gas and iron ore mining are major contributors.
Tourism Investment Opportunities: hotels, water sports, game reserves, infrastructure
Iconic attraction: The Kissama National Park.
Places to see: Luanda and Luanda's beaches. Ilha do Cabo, Mussulo, Palmeirinhas, Corimba and Santiago. Lubango and the Leba Pass, Kissama National Park, Iona National Park.
Climate: Tropical in the north, drier plateau in the centre and arid in the south. Average coastal summer temperature 21o C, 16 C in winter.
Currency: Kwanza
Time Zone: GMT +1
National Day: 11 November, 1975