Things To Do
in Benguela

A rich chicken stew cooked with palm oil, okra and spices — widely found in local restaurants and a good choice for tasting Angolan home cooking.

Must-Try!

Freshly caught fish simply seasoned and grilled, commonly available at beachside restaurants and markets — best tried in Lobito or Benguela’s waterfront eateries.

A traditional fish or dried meat stew cooked with leafy greens, palm oil and vegetables; a classic dish in many Angolan homes and restaurants.

A starchy cassava or corn porridge served as a staple side with stews and grilled dishes — you'll find it everywhere as an accompaniment.

The town market offers fresh fish, fruits, vegetables and small stalls selling grilled seafood and snacks — ideal for sampling local flavors and photographing market life.

Near Lobito port and beaches, fishermen sell the day’s catch and vendors prepare simple grilled fish and seafood at low prices — a must-visit for fresh coastal food.

Portuguese is the official language; a polite greeting such as 'Olá' or 'Bom dia' goes a long way. Use formal greetings with older people and officials.

Show respect to elders, remove hats in some indoor spaces and be polite when entering homes or small shops; asking permission before photographing people is courteous.

Dress modestly in town and when visiting villages or religious sites; beachwear is appropriate at the shore but change into street clothes for town.

Public displays of affection are less common in conservative areas; always behave respectfully in markets and religious settings and avoid heated political discussions with strangers.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants a 5–10% tip for good service is common in sit-down places; round up fares for taxis and tip hotel porters a small amount. In informal stalls and markets tipping is not customary.

Cash (Angolan kwanza) is the most widely accepted form of payment, especially in markets, taxis and smaller restaurants. Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants but not universally; ATMs are available in Benguela but can be unreliable—carry sufficient cash and notify your bank before travel.

From November to March expect hot, humid weather along the coast with warm sea temperatures; beach time is ideal but pack sun protection and stay hydrated. Occasional short rain showers can occur, and humidity can make city walks tiring in midday heat.

March to May brings slightly cooler temperatures and lower humidity; sea conditions remain pleasant and it’s a comfortable time for outdoor activities and exploring coastal towns.

June to August is cooler and drier with pleasant sunny days and cooler nights — comfortable for sightseeing and hiking; it’s peak season for visitors who prefer milder conditions.

September to November warms up again with increasing humidity toward the end of the season; good for beaches before the hotter months arrive.

Vegetarian options are available but limited; ask for vegetable stews, grilled vegetables and rice dishes. Markets and some restaurants can adapt dishes, but clearly state preferences in Portuguese (e.g., 'sou vegetariano/vegetariana').

Vegan choices can be more challenging because many sauces contain fish or meat stock; rely on fresh produce, beans and funje, and communicate needs in Portuguese.

Naturally gluten-free staples like grilled fish, rice, cassava and funje are widely available, but check sauces and prepared foods for flour or breading.

Stick to cooked foods, bottled water and busy vendors; avoid ice from unknown sources and raw salads if you have a sensitive stomach.