Whether March is a good time to visit Luanda, Angola depends on your individual preferences and interests. Here are some factors to consider:
Events and Festivals:
- Carnaval: March often coincides with Carnaval, a vibrant festival celebrated in many parts of Angola, including Luanda. Carnaval features parades, music, dancing, and colorful costumes. If you’re interested in experiencing Angolan culture and traditions, March can be an excellent time to visit.
- International Trade Fair of Luanda (FILDA): FILDA is one of the largest trade fairs in Angola, showcasing various products and services from local and international businesses. It’s an opportunity to learn about Angola’s economy and industries.
- Luanda International Jazz Festival: This annual festival typically takes place in March and features performances by renowned jazz musicians from around the world.
Costs and Availability:
- Prices: March is generally considered a shoulder season, falling between the peak tourist season (June to September) and the low season (October to May). As a result, you may find lower prices for flights and accommodations during this time.
- Availability: March is a relatively quiet time for tourism in Luanda, so you’re less likely to encounter large crowds and long lines at popular attractions. This can make it easier to explore the city and enjoy its sights and activities at your own pace.
Things to Do:
- Explore the City: Luanda is a diverse and vibrant city with a rich history and culture. You can visit historical sites, museums, art galleries, and markets to learn more about Angola’s past and present.
- Visit the Beaches: Luanda is home to several beautiful beaches, such as Ilha do Cabo and Mussulo Island. These beaches offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
- Take a Day Trip: You can easily take a day trip from Luanda to explore nearby towns and attractions. For example, you can visit the Kwanza River, the Mussulo Island, or the Kissama National Park.
Weather:
- Temperature: March is generally a warm and humid month in Luanda, with average temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius (72 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Rainfall: March is one of the driest months in Luanda, with an average rainfall of around 30 millimeters (1.2 inches). However, it’s still possible to experience occasional showers or thunderstorms during this time.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Luanda depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to get out of your trip. March can be a good option if you’re interested in experiencing cultural events, finding lower prices, and avoiding large crowds.
Weather In Luanda During March
The weather in Luanda, Angola during March is characterized by warm and humid conditions. Here are some key weather patterns to expect:
Temperature:
- Average high temperatures range between 29°C (84°F) and 31°C (88°F).
- Average low temperatures typically fall between 22°C (72°F) and 24°C (75°F).
- Warm and comfortable temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
- Occasional heat waves may bring temperatures above 35°C (95°F), so staying hydrated and seeking shade during the hottest hours is important.
Humidity:
- Luanda experiences high levels of humidity throughout the year, including in March.
- Relative humidity levels typically range between 70% and 85%.
- High humidity can make the air feel muggy and uncomfortable, especially during the warmest parts of the day.
Rainfall:
- Luanda receives minimal rainfall in March, with an average of less than 25 millimeters (1 inch).
- The chances of rain are relatively low, making it a good time to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about getting caught in a downpour.
- However, occasional thunderstorms can occur, typically in the late afternoon or evening.
Wind:
- Trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean provide a cooling breeze during the day.
- Wind speeds average between 10 and 20 kilometers per hour (6 and 12 miles per hour).
- The wind helps to moderate temperatures and can make the weather feel more comfortable.
Sunshine:
- Luanda experiences plenty of sunshine in March, with an average of 8 to 10 hours per day.
- Clear skies and sunny days are common, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and sightseeing.
In summary, March in Luanda, Angola offers warm and humid weather with minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time to visit and enjoy the city’s attractions.
Things To Do In Luanda In March
- Carnaval de Luanda: This is one of the biggest festivals in Luanda and takes place over several days in March. The festival features parades, music, dancing, and food.
- Women’s Day Festival: This festival is held annually on March 8 and celebrates the achievements of women in Angola. The festival features concerts, workshops, and exhibitions.
- International Jazz Festival of Luanda: This festival showcases jazz musicians from Angola and around the world. The festival takes place over several days in March and features concerts, workshops, and jam sessions.
- Luanda International Film Festival: This festival showcases films from Angola and around the world. The festival takes place over several days in March and features screenings, workshops, and panel discussions.
- Visit the beaches: Luanda has several beautiful beaches, including Ilha do Cabo, Mussulo Island, and Corimba Beach. These beaches are a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.
- Visit the Ilha do Cabo: This small island is located just off the coast of Luanda and is home to several historical sites, including the ruins of a Portuguese fort and a museum.
- Take a walk through the city center: The city center of Luanda is home to several museums, art galleries, and historical buildings. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Angola.
- Visit the Mercado do Roque Santeiro: This market is a great place to find souvenirs and local crafts. It is also a great place to try some of the local cuisine.
Tourism In Luanda, Angola During March
- Carnival: March is the month of Carnival in Luanda, which is a vibrant and colorful festival that takes place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday. The streets are filled with music, dancing, and parades, and there are many opportunities to experience Angolan culture and traditions.
- Music and Dance Festivals: March is also a popular time for music and dance festivals in Luanda. The Luanda International Jazz Festival, for example, features performances by renowned jazz musicians from around the world. Other festivals may focus on traditional Angolan music, dance, or contemporary African music.
- Cultural Events: Luanda is home to a number of museums and cultural centers, which often host special events and exhibitions in March. These events may include art exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, and workshops, providing an opportunity to learn more about Angolan history, culture, and art.
- Food and Drink: Luanda has a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Angolan dishes and international cuisine. March is a great time to sample some of the local specialties, such as moamba de galinha (chicken stew with okra), feijoada (bean stew), and calulu (fish or meat stew with okra and palm oil). There are also many restaurants serving international cuisine, from Portuguese to Chinese to Italian.
- Shopping: Luanda has a number of shopping malls and markets, where you can find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to clothing and electronics. The Benfica Market is a particularly popular spot for souvenir shopping, offering a wide variety of traditional Angolan crafts and souvenirs.
- Nightlife: Luanda has a lively nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The beachfront area of Ilha do Cabo is particularly popular, with a number of bars and restaurants offering live music and dancing.
