Cycling Angola

Our newest cycling expedition, Africa: Ocean to Ocean, takes riders through seven fascinating Southern African countries. In this post, we take a look at what cyclists can expect on their journey through country number 1,  Angola.

Luanda

The tour begins in Luanda, Angola’s bustling capital city of over 10 million people. Before the ride begins, the cyclists can wander along the waterfront promenade (Marginal  de Luanda) or climb up to the Fortress of São Miguel (built in 1576) for wonderful views over the city. The city also has a unique cuisine, a mash-up of African, Portuguese and Brazilian influences and a number or vibrant markets like the Mercado do Kinaxixi to explore.

Parque Nacional do Quicama

South of Luanda, the route will take the riders through the vast Parque Nacional do Quicama, home to over 200 bird species including white-fronted wattle-eyes, olive bee-eaters, red-crusted turacos and the rare pale olive greenbul. The cyclists can keep an eye out for these ornithological wonders while they spin through a wonderful baobab forest on their way to the Atlantic coast.

Caboledo

The country’s coastline is spectacular and the riders will enjoy the dunes and stunning cliffs at Caboledo. If they have time, they can enjoy a chance to experience some of the planet’s best surfing here as the waves at this beach roll perpendicular to the shore, creating a unique surfing experience. There is also the chance to get a glimpse the local dolphins and turtles that make the area home.

Lobito (Rest Day)

The cyclists will enjoy a rest day in Lobito. This important port city is known for its gorgeous Portuguese colonial architecture and local crafts like wood carving, pottery and woven baskets. Riders should be sure to check out the Lobito Railway  Station (a wonderful example of Portuguese industrial architecture), the Art Deco inspired post office, casino and Império cinema, and the wonderful views at the Fortaleza do Lobito.

Serra da Leba Pass

Riders will face a challenging, but ultimately rewarding day, as they climb over 1000m up the spectacular hairpin turns of the Serra da Leba pass. Completed in 1970, it is one on the continent’s most beautiful roads and the panoramic views from the top back over the escarpment are well worth the effort.

Lubango (Rest Day)

Lubango is the capital of the country’s Huila province and is situated 1700m above sea level, the highest city in Angola. The streets are lined with jacaranda and eucalyptus trees and the elevation means cool nights, a relief from the intense heat in the lowlands. Highlights include the Statue of Christ (Momumento Cristo Rei). Based of Rio’s famous Corcovado, the statue is located 300m above the city and features wonderful view of surrounding Chela Mountains.

The Tunda-Vala Volcanic Fissures (Fendas de Tunda-Vala), is a stunning 1000m deep vertical gorge in Chela Mountains and is just 17 km from Lubango. It offers beautiful views over the countryside, a wide variety of hiking trails and gorgeous sunsets.

Recommended reading:

Jose Eduardo Agualusa – A General Theory of Oblivion and The Book of Chameleons
Ryszard Kapuściński – Another Day of Life
Pepetela – The Return of the Water Spirit
Daniel Metcalfe – Blue Dahlia, Black Gold
Paul Theroux – The Last Train to Zona Verde

Recommended viewing:

Sambizanga (1972): A landmark film focusing on the MPLA anti-colonial movement at the start of the Angolan War of Independence.
Nzinga, Queen of Angola (2013): A historical drama about the 17th-century warrior queen who fought against Portuguese colonizers.
The Hero (O Herói) (2004): Examines the struggles of post-war life in Luanda.

Recommended listening:

The Cold War Legacy: Angola (BBC)
Blowback (Spotify)
In The Shadow Of The Railway (BBC)
Kuduro – Electronic Music From Angola (Counterflows)

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