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Hiking and climbing in Angola

In Angola, you forge your own path across ancient rocks and through dense jungles where tourism is still an unknown concept. No Lonely Planet - just the reality that the locals likely haven't laid eyes on another traveler yet this year.

Morro de Moco | Serra de Leba | Wildcamping Pedras Negras | Cumbira Segunda | Frequently Asked Questions

Bondwa Overnight Hike | Morogoro motorbike tour |  FAQ

Why is Angola the perfect destination for Hikig and Climbing?

Angola is a land of extremes, where the lush north collides with the bone-dry Namib Desert. The Huíla Plateau towers majestically above the desert, offering a much-needed escape from the heat. Here, you won't find manicured hiking trails, but raw nature where you won't run into anyone else for hours.

Together with Nathan, David, and Pedro from our partner project Climb Angola, we are exploring the 'new frontier' of the climbing world: from technical trad lines in the dizzying depths of the Tundavala Gorge to the granite domes of Kumbira shooting straight up out of the jungle. This isn't a trip for those looking for a pre-packaged hike; this is for travelers who consciously choose to leave the beaten path behind.

Where are the best places to hike in Angola?

In Angola, hiking and climbing aren't about ticking off checklists, but about a pure connection with the landscape.

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Angola’s highest mountain: Morro do Moco

With Met 2.620 metres, Morro do Moco is the highest point in the country. Forget clear trail markers; this is hiking the way it was meant to be. We start in the village of Kanjonde, where we meet Bernardo. He grew up at the foot of the mountain and knows every rare bird call in these forests. Before we begin the 3 to 5 hour climb, we set up camp on the edge of the local soccer field, surrounded by curious kids kicking a ball around. Once you reach the top, with Bernardo pointing toward the far horizon, you are hit by a silence you won't find anywhere in Europe anymore.

100 climbing routes in Serra da Leba

Serra da Leba is famous for its spectacular hairpin turns, but for climbers, the 600 metres high sandstone walls are the real draw. There are now over 100 routes waiting to be sent. Whether you're balancing on a technical trad route with shaking knees or enjoying the flow of a sport climb: the sheer drop below will do the work for you. After a day of burning fingers on the rock, we kick back with the local route developers at the Miradouro da Leba viewpoint for an ice-cold Cuca beer, as the sun slowly sinks behind the waterfall.

Wild camping at the foot of the Pedras Negras

In the savannah of Malanje, the Pedras Negras (black rocks) of Pungo Andongo rise up like giant black sentinels. You can scramble your way to the top of the 'Man Stone' for an incredible view over the Kwanza River.

While our local guide Manuel tells us stories about Queen Nzinga - whose legendary footprints are still visible in the rocks, according to the locals - we gather wood for the campfire. Wild camping at the foot of these vertical monoliths means falling asleep under a crystal-clear starry sky, with the giant shadows of the rocks as your only company.

Granite domes and tropical forests in Angola

In the Cuanza Sul province lies the hidden village of Cumbira Segundo, surrounded by spectacular granite domes that shoot 200 to 400 meters straight out of the jungle. This is the home base of our friends at Climb Angola. Together with the community, they built a climbing wall at the local primary school and are training local youth to become guides. The kids here used to climb the rocks barefoot or in flip-flops; now, these young local climbers proudly show you around their 'backyard'. Alongside challenging multi-pitches, you will hike through one of the best-preserved patches of tropical forest in the country, while the mountain locals warmly invite you in for a chat.

Our team lives and works in Africa

We develop our own routes

Your trip will be tailor-made

100% insured and travel in safety

All your frequently asked questions about hiking in Angola

Do I need to be an experienced climber for Serra da Leba?

Not at all. Whether you’re putting on a harness for the first time or already have years of multi-pitches under your belt: we tailor the routes to your level. From accessible sport routes from beginners  (5b) to pros (5.11c/6c+).), there’s plenty of rock for everyone.

Do I need special gear for the hikes?

Yes, Angola is rugged. Leave your light sneakers at home; sturdy, well-soled hiking boots are essential for the thorny paths and loose rocks. Are you actually going climbing? Bring your own harness and climbing shoes. There simply isn’t a shop around where you can just buy these on the fly.

Is it safe to hike in Angola?

Angola is surprisingly safe and the people are incredibly welcoming. But don't go pioneering up a mountain on your own luck. Trails are not marked and nature is unforgiving. We always send you out with one of our local guides who knows the way, the community, and the village elders.

When is the best time to head into the mountains?

Grab your calendar for the months of June through October. This is the dry season. The weather is pleasantly warm and sunny, and you'll prevent unpaved roads from turning into impassable mud pools due to heavy tropical downpours.

Can I wild camp anywhere during my hikes?

Yes, and that might just be the best part of the entire trip. But there is one golden rule: we never camp without permission from the local village elder (the 'soba'). Our guides handle this respectfully with a chat and a small token of appreciation. The hospitality you experience afterward is priceless.

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