A city abundant in resources and natural beauty, Luanda is an exciting prospect for expats and is brimming with potential. A prominent port city on the west coast of Southern Africa and the capital of Angola, Luanda certainly is easy on the eye with a beautiful bay and pretty seafront promenade.

As an expat moving to Luanda, you’ll likely be coming to the city for a lucrative job in the oil or diamond industry. Typically, this work assignment will last only a few months or years.

Living in Luanda as an expat

Life in Luanda has pros and cons, and you shouldn’t underestimate the challenges you’re likely to face. Indeed, adjusting to the day-to-day may be difficult and slow for many expats.

Working in Luanda can be highly lucrative if you have experience in the mining or oil industries. Other large industries in the city include agriculture, manufacturing, construction and tourism. Most expats come over as part of a contract with a multinational company.

Most of these multinational companies will place their employees in expat compounds. These compounds offer a good quality of life, with large houses, swimming pools, and a high level of security, but they tend to be expensive for those footing the bill themselves.

The public transport in Luanda is fairly limited. Minibus taxis are abundant but fairly reckless. As a result, you’ll probably find that you need a vehicle while living in Luanda. That said, due to the dangerous road conditions, having a driver with local experience is the best bet. Cars here drive on the right-hand side.

Healthcare in Luanda is better than in the rest of the country, but even here, public healthcare falls short of Western standards. You’ll likely need to invest in private healthcare and private health insurance. Serious emergencies may require travelling to South Africa or another country. Pharmacies are easy to find in Luanda, but we recommend bringing chronic medication from your home country.

Cost of living in Luanda

Luanda can be surprisingly expensive. Accommodation is in high demand in the city and will be your biggest expense if your relocation package does not cover it. We advise that you factor this into any contract negotiations before moving to Luanda.

Locally sourced produce is often reasonably cheap, but imported goods are pricey. Overall, though, if you’re earning in a foreign currency, you’ll have a high quality of life here.

Families and children in Luanda

The noticeable inequality between the rich and poor is perhaps the most jarring aspect of a move to Luanda. While much of Luanda’s population continues to live in poverty, most expats live in insular expat communities in the newer and more affluent Luanda Sul area to the south of the city. This area is home to several international schools and is the best area to live in if you have small children.

While there is plenty to keep you and your family occupied on weekends in these expat compounds, many expats choose to visit one of the many beaches and resorts outside the city. Surfing and nature hikes are popular among expats and tourists alike.

Climate in Luanda

Luanda has a tropical climate, and it can get rather humid. With a long dry season and short wet season, you'll need to adjust to the hot weather. We recommend staying cool and hydrated to combat weariness and heat stroke.

While there are undeniable drawbacks of living in this African city, expats moving to Luanda with an open mind will likely have a rich and rewarding cultural and financial experience. Nature buffs are sure to love the surroundings, and anyone open to exploring the culture and getting to know the locals will be welcomed with open arms.

You'll have much to consider and plan for when moving to Angola’s capital. Although elements of culture shock may be felt and visa processes can be stressful, Luanda has plenty to offer in terms of its people, cuisine, climate, and natural beauty. Like in any other city, life in Luanda is full of ups and downs.

Below, we’ve listed some pros and cons of moving to Luanda.

Weather in Luanda

+ PRO: Pleasant tropical climate

Climate can have a major impact on wellbeing. Fortunately, Luanda’s weather is ideal for most expats. Angola’s geographic location means it has a perfect tropical climate all year round. Luanda is situated right on the coast, so there are plenty of beaches nearby that you can enjoy.

- CON: High humidity

Although the weather in Angola is mostly pleasant, Luanda is a humid city and those who are not used to this type of weather can feel sweaty and uncomfortable. Still, the exceptionally hot summers are relatively short, while temperatures are pleasant for most of the year.

Lifestyle in Luanda

+ PRO: Vibrant food scene

Luanda’s cuisine and restaurant scene are mouthwatering and vibrant. Angolan food has deep connections with Portugal and Brazil, but with its own flair.

+ PRO: Beautiful people and culture

Angolans are known to be extroverted and friendly. Although you may experience some culture shock, making friends in Angola is a blast once you learn the customs and language. Socialising can also help you settle in and see the city from a different perspective.

+ PRO: Animated nightlife

Luanda’s nightlife is eclectic and vibey. Angolans revel in a good party where they can show off their stylish fashion sense and killer dance moves.

Local culture in Luanda

- CON: Language barrier

This could be a pro or a con, depending on your ability and desire to learn a foreign language. English is not spoken widely in Angola, so language barriers may exist. Learning a few essential words can help you integrate into your new home and show you are putting in an effort. A little goes a long way. Portuguese is the country’s official language.

- CON: Inequality is shocking

There is a stark juxtaposition between the wealthy elite who dress in designer labels, travel in expensive vehicles and own luxurious property, and the Angolan majority who live in informal settlements and lower-quality accommodation. This may be a shock to expats unfamiliar with this extreme inequality.

Local Culture in Angola

Safety in Luanda

- CON: Crime is a reality in Luanda

Safety is undeniably an issue in Luanda. Muggings and robberies do happen, and travelling alone at night, especially as a woman, can be dangerous and should be avoided. It's also important to be vigilant of your surroundings and make sure you know which areas are high risk.

+ PRO: 24-hour security available

While it's always good to take care, you need not be overly concerned about safety. Many international organisations that employ expats have strict safety regulations and organise secure accommodation for their employees, as well as 24-hour guards to monitor workplaces and residences.

Safety in Angola

Healthcare in Luanda

+ PRO: Many healthcare facilities

As Angola's capital, Luanda has the most healthcare facilities. There are some good private clinics and 24-hour hospitals. Additionally, many doctors and health specialists can communicate in English.

- CON: Inadequate healthcare in general

If you’re from a Western country, you may find that healthcare here doesn't compare well with the standards you're used to. We advise you to obtain private healthcare and organise health insurance that covers costs abroad, such as in South Africa or Namibia, in case of an emergency or complicated procedures.

- CON: Mosquitoes are a nightmare

Not only do these bugs have an annoying buzz and an itchy bite, but they also carry diseases. As a foreigner entering Angola, you should ensure your vaccinations are up to date, use insect repellent, and consult healthcare advisors about the risks of malaria and yellow fever before the trip.

Healthcare in Angola

Working in Luanda

+ PRO: Attractive salaries and work packages

Expats often move to Luanda to work for a multinational company, most likely in the oil or diamond industry. Because of this, they have already secured high salaries and can afford the luxuries available.

- CON: Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork

Bureaucracy seems to be the name of the game when it comes to getting anything official done. The visa and work permit processes are time consuming and complicated, and you may receive different advice on requirements from different sources.

Working in Angola
Visas for Angola

Education in Luanda

+ PRO: Range of international school options

Although public education in Angola may be lacking, you needn’t worry about finding a school for your children as an expat. There are private, international schools in Luanda that can help smooth the transition for families. Your children can continue a familiar curriculum without language barriers, as there are options for American and British curricula, along with the globally recognised International Baccalaureate.

- CON: High international school fees

Tuition is expensive and adds to the already high cost of living in Luanda. There is also tough competition for space in international schools, so you should contact the schools in advance to secure a place for your children.

International Schools in Angola

Getting around in Luanda

+ PRO: Easy regional travel

Although getting around the city itself can be difficult, remember that you can travel outside the city for some stunning getaways. Before setting off, you should find out about the road conditions and whether you require a four-wheel-drive vehicle. We also recommend finding out about the safety and security issues in the area you are visiting.

Angola has much to offer, with its warm coastlines, lush rainforests, expansive deserts, and savannahs. These are unmissable for any expat staying in the country.

- CON: Traffic is a nightmare

Like life in any other big city, congestion is a major issue, so we recommend avoiding rush hour where possible. Most expats will need a car, but you may be able to organise a driver through your hiring company so that the stress of driving is out of your hands.

- CON: Reckless vehicles on the road

While slow-moving traffic is one thing, Luanda’s wild minibus taxis, ‘candongueiro’, are another. These white and blue vans zip through the streets. It’s best to avoid them, as they often wreak havoc on other vehicles on the road.

Transport and Driving in Angola

Cost of living in Luanda

- CON: Living expenses in Luanda are steep

The cost of living in Luanda is high for expats. Most Western-style goods, products, and services have high markups. To top it off, accommodation suitable for expats is also expensive. It’s likely that you'll also need to arrange for backup generators and water tanks, as these services are regularly disrupted, which can add to living expenses in the city.

+ PRO: The cost of living is easing

Although Luanda’s cost of living has historically been one of the highest in the world for expats, it is easing and starting to become more affordable for expats. While inflation remains a concern, housing prices in the city are slowly coming down, as Angola’s infrastructure continues to develop.

Cost of Living in Luanda

The cost of living in Luanda can be high, but expat employers usually offer a host of benefits for those willing to move to the Angolan capital. Housing and international schools are two major expenses to consider, and day-to-day life can also be pricey due to a reliance on imports. If you earn a good salary, though, you’ll live well in Luanda.

Cost of accommodation in Luanda

As there are only a few expat-friendly areas in Luanda, the cost of accommodation in the city is usually high. In addition to rental expenses, you will likely have to pay for utilities. Angola suffers frequent electricity outages and water shortages, so investing in back-up generators and water tanks becomes a costly necessity.

Cost of transport in Luanda

A personal vehicle is recommended for expats moving to Luanda, as safe and reliable public transport is not readily available. Purchasing and maintaining a suitable vehicle can be expensive, but hiring a personal driver is comparatively affordable.

Cost of groceries in Luanda

Food at Luanda’s larger supermarkets is expensive because most items are imported. Locally produced goods, although slightly more affordable, are not excluded from significant markups. Buying fresh produce from markets and street vendors is less costly and supports small traders, but the quality of food – meat in particular – can be subpar.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Luanda

High-end restaurants, bars, and clubs in Luanda tend to charge high prices, and a night out is a pricey affair. If you’re after a more authentic local experience, many affordable eateries serve traditional Angolan cuisine.

Cultural events in Luanda are generally reasonably priced, but international concerts and performances can be costly. The price of movie tickets in Luanda is also quite steep, so be prepared to shell out when you head to the cinema.

Cost of education in Luanda

Sending your children to school in Luanda can be a significant expense. The vast majority of expats opt for an international school because the local public school system falls short in several areas. International schools may offer higher-quality education and more familiar curricula, but they come with a hefty price tag. Additional costs such as uniforms, textbooks, and extracurricular activities should also be considered.

Cost of healthcare in Luanda

Getting adequate healthcare in Luanda can be expensive if you’re not fully insured. The city’s public healthcare system is under resourced, and many prefer private medical facilities despite their high costs. 

Most expats have employer-provided health insurance as part of their relocation package. If you have to pay for your own, the cost of your health insurance will depend on your level of coverage, lifestyle habits, and current health status.

Cost of living in Luanda chart

Prices are in Angolan kwanzas (AOA) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Luanda in October 2026.