Things to Do in Angola in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Angola

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season means accessible roads to remote areas like Kalandula Falls and Pedras Negras - routes impassable during rains (March-May) are perfect for 4WD adventures
Cooler morning temperatures around 20°C (68°F) make early wildlife viewing at Kissama National Park ideal before afternoon heat peaks at 25°C (77°F)
Atlantic Ocean temperatures reach annual peak of 26°C (79°F) with minimal waves - perfect for swimming at Mussulo Island and coastal beaches near Benguela
February marks mango and cashew season - local markets overflow with fresh tropical fruits at lowest annual prices, typically 50-100 kwanza per kg

Considerations

Harmattan dust winds from Sahara create hazy conditions reducing visibility for photography and increasing respiratory irritation for sensitive travelers
Peak tourist season for expat community drives accommodation prices up 40-60% compared to rainy season rates, especially in Luanda's Ilha district
Afternoon temperatures combined with 70% humidity create oppressive conditions between 1-4pm, limiting comfortable outdoor exploration time

Best Activities in February

Kissama National Park Wildlife Drives

February's dry conditions concentrate animals around remaining water sources, making elephant, antelope, and bird sightings most reliable. Morning temperatures of 20°C (68°F) keep animals active until 10am. Park roads are fully accessible after rainy season maintenance completed in January.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators in Luanda. Day trips typically cost 15,000-25,000 kwanza including transport and guide. Look for operators with recent park permits and 4WD vehicles. See current tour options in booking section below.

Mussulo Island Beach Excursions

Ocean temperatures peak at 26°C (79°F) with calm conditions perfect for swimming and water sports. February's lower rainfall means consistent boat transfers and beach access. Mangrove channels are at ideal depth for kayaking after seasonal water level stabilization.

Booking Tip: Book boat transfers 3-5 days ahead, typically 8,000-12,000 kwanza round trip from Luanda. Choose morning departures to avoid afternoon wind. Licensed operators provide life jackets and insurance. Check current options in booking widget below.

Kalandula Falls Adventure Tours

Dry season access roads allow comfortable 4WD journey to Africa's second-largest waterfall. February flow rates are substantial but not torrential, creating perfect mist conditions for photography. Surrounding hiking trails are dry and safe for exploration to multiple viewpoints.

Booking Tip: Book 2-week advance for weekend trips, typically 35,000-50,000 kwanza for 2-day excursions including accommodation. Requires experienced drivers with recent route knowledge. See current operators in booking section below.

Historic Luanda Walking Tours

Morning temperatures below 22°C (72°F) make exploring Cidade Alta fortress and colonial architecture comfortable before midday heat. February's clear skies provide excellent lighting for photographing Portuguese-era buildings and harbor views from São Miguel fortress.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots starting 8-9am to avoid afternoon heat. Group tours typically 3,000-5,000 kwanza per person for 3-4 hours. Licensed cultural guides required for fortress access. Current options available in booking widget below.

Benguela Province Coastal Drives

Dry season opens coastal routes to fishing villages and pristine beaches south of Benguela city. February's stable weather patterns ensure reliable access to Baía Azul and remote Atlantic coastline. Perfect conditions for photographing traditional fishing boats and colonial-era lighthouses.

Booking Tip: Self-drive or guided tours typically 20,000-35,000 kwanza for full day with driver. Book vehicles with recent maintenance records for coastal salt air conditions. See current tour operators in booking section below.

Traditional Market Food Tours

February's harvest season brings peak variety of tropical fruits and traditional foods to markets. Morning shopping tours before 10am avoid afternoon heat while accessing best selection of mangoes, cashews, and traditional palm wine. Local vendors are most active during cooler morning hours.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours typically 5,000-8,000 kwanza including tastings. Book with guides who speak Portuguese for vendor interactions. Morning departure essential for best market experience. Current operators listed in booking widget below.

February Events & Festivals

Late February

Luanda Carnival

Traditional carnival celebrations with local music, dance groups, and street parades showcasing Angolan culture. Features semba and kuduro performances alongside traditional mask dancing from various provinces.

Throughout February

Mango Festival Season

Local harvest celebrations in rural areas featuring traditional mango varieties unique to Angola. Markets organize special displays and tastings of regional mango types, with traditional preservation techniques demonstrations.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton long-sleeve shirts - protect from 70% humidity and UV index 8 while allowing air circulation during 25°C (77°F) afternoon temperatures

Dust mask or scarf - Harmattan winds carry Sahara sand creating respiratory irritation, especially problematic for asthma sufferers

High-SPF sunscreen (50+) - equatorial sun with UV index 8 causes burns within 15 minutes on unprotected skin

Quick-dry rain jacket - afternoon showers in 10 days of month last 20-30 minutes but can be intense

Comfortable walking boots - for uneven colonial-era cobblestones in historic Luanda and rocky terrain at waterfalls

Insect repellent with DEET - evening mosquito activity peaks during warm, humid conditions

Portable battery pack - power outages common during transitional weather periods, especially in coastal areas

Cash in small denominations - rural areas and markets operate cash-only, USD widely accepted alongside kwanza

Water purification tablets - municipal water quality varies, especially important during hot weather when hydration needs increase

Light cotton sleepwear - nighttime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) with high humidity make synthetic fabrics uncomfortable

Insider Knowledge

Book domestic flights for early morning departures - afternoon thunderstorms can cause delays even during dry season, and TAAG Angola's schedule reliability improves with morning flights

Exchange money at official banks rather than street dealers - kwanza rate fluctuates daily and counterfeit notes are common in tourist areas, especially around Ilha district

Hire guides through hotel concierges rather than street approach - tourism police crack down on unlicensed guides during peak February season, official guides carry government identification

Stock up on bottled water and snacks before weekend trips - many rural areas have limited supplies and shops close early during hot afternoon hours between 1-4pm