Uíge - Discovering Angola

Travelling to Uíge

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Uíge, a pretty good destination in Angola (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Uíge and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Uíge, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Angola, here's everything to know about Uíge for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Uíge

Uíge is a province located in the north of Angola, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo to the north. The capital city of Uíge province is also called Uíge. The landscape is characterized by mountains and large rivers such as the Cuango River. The province is known for its rich cultural heritage, with traditional art and music being important parts of the local culture. The official language is Portuguese, but many residents also speak local languages such as Kimbundu and Kikongo. The province provides opportunities for ecotourism as well as cultural tourism with several historical sites and natural parks.

What to visit in Uíge

Uíge is a province located in the northwest of Angola. Although it's not a well-known tourist destination, there are still a few interesting places to visit. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Uíge include: 1. Cangola Waterfalls - These stunning waterfalls are located about 7 km from the center of Uíge city. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, and visitors can swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls. The falls are particularly beautiful during the rainy season.
2. Nkosi Nsangu National Park - This national park is located in the municipality of Sanza Pombo. It has a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and more than 200 species of birds. Visitors can take a guided safari tour of the park to see the animals up close.
3. Pungo Andongo - This is a historical site located in the municipality of Ambuila. It's home to a 12-meter rock formation that resembles a woman breastfeeding a child, and it's surrounded by a variety of interesting rock formations. It's said to be the birthplace of the ancient Kingdom of Mbundu.
4. Kalandula Falls - These are the second-largest waterfalls in Africa and are located about 70 km from Uíge city. The falls are approximately 105 meters tall and 400 meters wide, and they're surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Visitors can swim and climb around the falls.
5. Quissama National Park - This park is located in the municipality of Quitexe and was once the private hunting reserve of the Angolan president. It has a large population of antelopes, zebras, buffaloes, and other animals. Visitors can also see the preserved colonial buildings and ruins from the time of Portuguese rule.
Overall, Uíge has a few attractions that are worth visiting, particularly for those interested in nature and history. However, it's important to note that infrastructure and tourist services are limited in the province, so visitors should plan accordingly.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Uíge.

When to go on holiday to Uíge

The best time to visit Uíge, Angola is during the dry season which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is mostly sunny, with little to no rainfall which makes it easier to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Temperatures can be hot and humid during the day, but it cools down at night making it comfortable to sleep. However, it's important to note that Uíge is located close to the equator, so temperatures are generally consistent throughout the year, with only minor variations. So even if you decide to visit during the wet season, it's possible to have a great trip as long as you come prepared for the rain.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Uíge

The easiest way to get to Uíge in Angola is by flying. There are daily flights from the capital city, Luanda, to Uíge. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can book your flight through local airlines such as TAAG Angola Airlines, Fly540, or Air Namibia. Once you arrive at the Uíge Airport, you can take a taxi to your desired destination within the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Uíge, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Uíge

Uíge, a province in Angola, is known for its delicious and unique cuisine that is heavily influenced by traditional and cultural practices. Here are some typical foods of Uíge with a short description for each of them: 1. Calulu - This is a traditional Angolan dish that is very popular in Uíge. It is made with fish, eggplant, okra, and onions, all cooked and stewed together in a flavorful sauce.
2. Muzongué - This is a type of cassava leaf stew that is commonly eaten in Uíge. It can be made with a variety of meats or just vegetables, and is usually served with rice or funge (a type of porridge made from cassava flour).
3. Cacussu - This is a type of spicy peanut soup that is very popular in Uíge. It is made with ground peanuts, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices, and is usually served with rice.
4. Kapuka - This is a fermented beverage made from cassava that is very popular in Uíge. It is an alcoholic drink that is usually consumed during celebrations and social events.
5. Funje - This is a traditional Angolan dish made from cassava flour mixed with water and cooked to form a smooth, thick porridge. It is usually served with a variety of stews and sauces.
6. Xima - Also known as pap or sadza, xima is a type of porridge made from maize flour. It is a staple food in Uíge and is usually served with stew or sauce.
7. Ginguba - This is a type of peanut butter that is commonly used in Uíge to add flavor to dishes. It is made by grinding roasted peanuts into a smooth paste, which can then be used as a dip or added to stews and soups.
8. Bombó - This is a type of cassava flour dumpling that is very popular in Uíge. It is made by mixing cassava flour with water and then shaping it into small balls, which are then boiled and served with stew or sauce.
Overall, these typical foods of Uíge are rich in flavor, nutrients, and cultural significance, and are definitely worth trying if you ever get the chance to visit this beautiful region of Angola!
You can find general info about typical foods in Angola here.

Is Uíge an expensive destination for tourists?

Uíge is not a popular tourist destination in Angola, and therefore it may not have as many tourist-oriented activities or facilities as more popular destinations. However, accommodation, transportation, and food can still be relatively affordable. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the time of year and the level of luxury you seek. Overall, Uíge is not considered an expensive destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Uíge

In Uíge, Angola, the best areas to find accommodation are typically located in the city center, near prime tourist attractions such as the Cathedral of Uíge, the Municipal Market, and the Governor's Palace. Another popular area to stay in Uíge is the nearby village of Quilomosso, which is known for its beautiful scenery and is located about 15 minutes outside of the city center. Additionally, there are a number of modern hotels and guesthouses located along the main highway leading into Uíge, which offer easy access to the surrounding countryside and nearby towns.
You can check hotel prices at Uíge here:
Booking.com

Is Uíge a safe destination for tourists?

Uíge, like any other destination, has its risks and safety concerns that tourists should be aware of. It is always recommended to exercise caution and common sense while traveling to any location. It is advisable to stick to well-known and busy areas, and to avoid walking alone at night. It is also recommended to keep valuables safe and out of sight, and to be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes.
Additionally, it is advisable to keep up-to-date with the latest safety advisories and to follow any travel warnings issued by your government or reliable travel sources. As with any trip, proper planning and preparation can help ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience in Uíge or any other destination you plan to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Angola here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Uíge.

What type of travelers will enjoy Uíge the most?

Uíge, Angola is a great destination for families and couples who are looking for a relaxing and peaceful vacation. The city is well-known for its beautiful natural scenery, including waterfalls, rivers, and forests, which are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. There are also cultural attractions like museums and historic sites that would appeal to visitors interested in learning about Angolan history and culture. However, Uíge is not particularly known for its nightlife or party scene, so younger travelers seeking entertainment and nightlife may not find it as exciting.

How to get around Uíge

To move around Uíge (Angola), you can use various modes of transportation such as taxis, buses, and motorcycle taxis. Taxis are the most common mode of transportation in the city and can be hailed easily throughout the city. Buses are also available and are a more affordable option, though they may not be as comfortable as taxis. Motorcycle taxis or "mototaxis" are another popular option and are usually faster and more efficient for short distances.

What to see around Uíge

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Uíge, Angola: 1. Kalandula Falls: Located about 2.5 hours away from Uíge, Kalandula Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in Africa and a must-visit attraction.
2. Museum of Dundo: About 2 hours away from Uíge, the Museum of Dundo features exhibits on the region's natural history, as well as collections of art and artifacts from the area's indigenous peoples.
3. Tombua Beach: Tombua Beach is about 3 hours away from Uíge and is a beautiful, secluded spot with pristine white sand and clear waters.
4. Maiombe Forest Reserve: A little over an hour away from Uíge, Maiombe Forest Reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, monkeys, and various bird species.
5. Cangandala National Park: About 2 hours away from Uíge, Cangandala National Park is a protected area that boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the giant sable antelope, an endangered species that can only be found in Angola.
For every travel information about Angola you can click here.

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