Safety Tips for Luanda

Emergency & Quick Links

In case of emergency:

Call local services or jump to the quick-reference pages below.

Emergency Numbers Police Stations

Bookmark both links, keep your phone charged, and share your live location with a trusted contact when moving at night.

Introduction

Luanda is a vibrant city full of life and contrast — and, like any large city, it pays to stay alert and follow a few common-sense precautions, especially if you’re new to the area. Below you’ll find practical tips to keep your time in Angola’s capital safe and enjoyable.

Quick-start Safety Cards

Stay alert in busy areas

Keep belongings close; avoid displaying phones/cameras/jewellery. Step inside a shop/café to check your phone.

Use trusted transport

Prefer ride-hailing or a known driver. At night, go door-to-door by car rather than walking.

Plan your routes

Check the route beforehand; share ETA with a contact. Avoid unfamiliar areas without a local guide.

Carry only essentials

Limit cash and originals. Residents carry ID; visitors use passport or certified copy, original secured.

Stay connected

Get local data/SIM. Download offline maps. Share live location when moving at night.

Ask locals

Hotel staff, colleagues and neighbours can flag current hotspots and safer routes/times.

Busy Areas & Personal Items

  • In markets/downtown/events, keep your bag cross-body to the front; zip compartments closed.
  • Use a slim wallet for the day and keep the rest secured at home/hotel.
  • Need to use your phone? Move to a doorway, lobby or sit at a café first.

Transport & Night Moves

  • Prefer ride-hailing apps or a known driver. Confirm plate and driver name before entering.
  • At night, request pickup from the door and drop-off at the exact entrance. Avoid walking the last blocks.
  • If driving, park in attended areas and keep items out of sight; lock doors while driving.

Route Planning & Areas

  • Check routes and traffic beforehand; share your ETA with a friend/colleague.
  • Exploring beyond central areas? Go with a reputable local guide/driver.
  • If something feels off, change direction, enter a shop/hotel, or request a pickup.

Money, Documents & Copies

  • Carry only the cash you need for the day. Keep a small “daily” wallet separate from reserves.
  • Residents: carry ID. Visitors: passport or certified copy; store original securely.
  • Keep digital copies of ID/visa/insurance in a secure cloud folder with offline access.

Connectivity & Navigation

  • Buy a local SIM or eSIM; maintain data for maps/WhatsApp. Save key locations (hotel, embassy, hospital).
  • Download offline maps for Luanda as backup.
  • Use live location with trusted contacts when moving at night or to unfamiliar areas.

Local Advice & Etiquette

  • Ask hotel staff/neighbours about current conditions, events and recommended time windows.
  • Dress low-key. Ask permission before photographing people or private property.
  • If a situation escalates, prioritise distance and de-escalation over confrontation.

Mindset: Enjoy, stay aware

Luanda has energy and beauty. Enjoy it — keep your “traveller awareness” on: eyes up, routes planned, essentials only, and transport sorted. That balance keeps most days simple and safe.