How to get to Lubango

Picturesque Lubango, situated on a cool plateau in the southern part of Angola, attracts travelers with its colonial architecture and proximity to unique natural landmarks. If you are looking for information on how to get to Lubango, you will be pleased to know that this important regional center enjoys good transport accessibility. You can reach the city by domestic flight, by rail, or by car, traversing the famous mountain serpentine road along the way.

The most convenient way to reach your destination is to take a flight to Lubango Airport (SDD). It serves as an important transport hub for the southern part of the country, handling many passengers and receiving regular flights from the capital. Thanks to stable air connections, planning a journey here by air is usually quite straightforward.

If direct tickets are unavailable, one might consider flying to neighboring Namibe, located approximately 150 kilometers away; however, the main airport is still preferable. The Lubango air gateway is located in immediate proximity to the city limits, ensuring a quick and comfortable transfer to the center.

For enthusiasts of railway travel, there is an excellent opportunity to reach the city by train. Lubango is one of the key stations on the historic Moçâmedes Railway (Caminho de Ferro de Moçâmedes). The route begins in the coastal city of Namibe and ascends to the high-altitude plateau, offering passengers breathtaking views of the changing landscapes.

A trip along this line allows you not only to comfortably cover the distance from the Atlantic coast but also to enjoy the unique nature of the region. The railway station is located within the city limits, making arrival convenient for further movement around the surroundings and exploring local attractions.

Bus services connect the city with key regions of the country, allowing travelers to enjoy the changing scenery outside the window. One of the most picturesque routes is the trip from coastal Namibe: the bus covers the distance of about 180 kilometers in approximately 3–4 hours, climbing the famous Serra da Leba mountain serpentine. For those heading from the south, from the border with Namibia, a convenient option is the route from Ondjiva, which takes about 6–7 hours and covers around 400 kilometers through the savannah.

Travelers coming from the central coast can use regular services from Catumbela. This longer journey, covering over 500 kilometers, usually lasts from 8 to 10 hours; however, modern intercity coaches typically ensure a sufficient level of comfort. It is recommended to purchase tickets for these destinations in advance directly at bus station counters, as buses are a popular means of transport among the local population.

Travelling by car is an excellent way to appreciate the beauty of Angolan landscapes at your own pace. The most impressive route runs from the coast, from the city of Namibe: you will drive about 190 kilometers, which will take approximately 2.5 hours, including the ascent along the breathtaking Serra da Leba mountain serpentine. The path from the north, from the city of Catumbela, is longer — about 385 kilometers and almost 6 hours on the road, passing through colourful local settlements.

For guests arriving from the south, it is convenient to travel via the city of Ondjiva; this route of about 380 kilometers is usually covered in 4.5–5 hours. For trips around the country, it is recommended to rent a reliable SUV or use taxi services, having previously agreed on a fixed price with the driver, as meters are rarely used on intercity routes.

A trip to Lubango will provide a wealth of impressions, as this city differs noticeably from the rest of Angola with its mild climate and unique atmosphere. To ensure your trip proceeds as comfortably and smoothly as possible, we have prepared a list of important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. Due to its location on a high-altitude plateau, it is cooler here than on the coast. During the day, you will be comfortable in light summer clothing, but evenings and nights can be cold. Be sure to bring a warm sweater, a windbreaker, and comfortable closed shoes for walking around natural attractions.
2. Transport. Public transport consists of minibuses, but they are often overcrowded and lack a clear schedule. To explore the surroundings, including the famous serpentine road and observation decks, it is strongly recommended to rent a car (preferably an SUV) or arrange a full-day service with a local taxi driver.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Kwanza. International bank cards are not accepted everywhere, mostly only in major hotels and upscale restaurants. ATMs may not work or dispense cash from foreign cards, so it is best to always carry a sufficient supply of cash.
4. Health and Safety. Drink exclusively bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at small cafes. Although the risk of malaria is lower here due to the altitude, the use of repellents in the evenings is mandatory. The city is considered one of the safest in the country, but standard precautions and keeping an eye on your belongings are necessary.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Portuguese. English is spoken by only a small part of the staff in the tourism sector. We recommend downloading an offline translator and learning a few polite phrases in Portuguese — this will help you build a rapport with the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Angolans value politeness and respect. A greeting (handshake) is mandatory before starting any conversation. Do not photograph people without their direct permission, as many may react negatively to this.
7. What to Avoid. Strictly refrain from photographing police officers, military personnel, government buildings, and strategic objects (including bridges and the airport). This can lead to serious proceedings with authorities and confiscation of equipment.
8. Additional Tip. Plan visits to natural sites, such as the Tundavala Gap, for the morning hours or sunset. In the middle of the day, a haze often arises, which can hide the scale and beauty of the landscapes for which many come to this region.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the colonial architecture and breathtaking landscapes of this amazing region.