Transport and Driving in Angola

Transport and driving in Angola are some of the country’s most challenging aspects. Much of the road infrastructure was destroyed and neglected during years of conflict, and despite efforts to rebuild, much of the network is still riddled with potholes and little is paved.

Public transport in Angola

Angolan public transport largely comprises poorly maintained blue-and-white minivan taxis or buses known for their reckless driving as they careen in and out of the gridlocked city traffic. Due to poor safety standards, expats rarely use public transport in Angola, rather opting for a vehicle and a driver.

Taxis

There are a few privately owned taxi companies in Luanda, but cabs are not common on the city streets. Uber does not have a presence in Angola, although there is a local company called Kubinga that uses the same remote ride-hailing model as Uber. Several other local companies have entered the market, making ride-hailing more competitive in Angola.

Buses

Although buses are largely disorganised, the Angolan government is working towards improving the bus system to enhance public transport options in major cities like Luanda. The government has added more than 400 new buses to the existing fleet in 2024, with plans to introduce Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines. Bus fares are currently based on a flat rate.

Trains

Similarly to bus infrastructure, the Angolan government is working towards modernising and expanding the country’s rail infrastructure. There are currently three operational lines: Luanda Railway, Benguela Railway, and Moçâmedes Railway, which connect different parts of the country.

Train services offer three ticket classes, ranging from the cheapest to the priciest. The more expensive lines typically have clean carriages, a restaurant car, and functional bathrooms. Tickets can be purchased at railway stations, via travel agencies or online.

Useful links

• Kubinga

Driving in Angola

Many roads in Angola shouldn’t be attempted without a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and hazards such as wandering livestock and heavily overloaded vehicles mean that expecting the unexpected is the best course of action.

Most companies provide a car and driver and also cover the maintenance and fuel costs of their senior expat employees. Alternatively, companies may have a pool of cars and drivers available to their staff.

Few people buy a personal car due to the expense; a vehicle in Angola can easily cost double what it would in the US. The added costs of fuel and maintenance make cars unobtainable for many.

You’ll find that most expats live in Luanda Sul, south of the capital, and it’s much easier to get around in a private vehicle there since traffic congestion isn’t as bad as in the city centre. But the excess of vehicles in Luanda’s city centre takes congestion to outrageous extremes.

Driving licences

If you choose to drive yourself, you will need a local driving licence if you are staying in Angola long-term. Those with an International Driver’s Permit can legally drive in Angola for 12 months. Those who are from countries with licence exchange agreements with Angola can simply exchange their licence for a local one. This process is long and will involve providing documents like your passport, proof of residence, and your foreign driving licence. You must also pass an eye exam.

Otherwise, you’ll likely have to apply for an Angolan driving licence from scratch. You must first secure a Traffic Registration Number (TRN). Thereafter, you must undergo a written learner’s test and a practical driving test.

In the rainy season, roads should be navigated with extreme caution, as the many potholes can leave vehicles badly damaged if drivers aren’t careful. Local drivers are also known for aggressive driving; combined with the fact that few roads are tarred and properly demarcated, this provides further incentive to hire an experienced driver.