A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Lubango: The Hidden Gem of Angola

Introduction

Lubango, the capital of the Huíla province in Angola, is a city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. While not as well-known as other African cities, Lubango has much to offer to travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

The City of Lubango

With a population of around 600,000 inhabitants, Lubango is known for its pleasant climate, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. The city is filled with Portuguese colonial architecture, with brightly colored buildings contrasting with the green of the surrounding mountains. The city center hosts the Lubango Cathedral, an impressive church that is a testament to the Portuguese influence in the region.

The Serra da Leba

A few kilometers from Lubango is the Serra da Leba, a mountain range famous for its winding road that offers stunning panoramic views. The highest point of the road, over 1,800 meters above sea level, is a popular spot for taking photographs and enjoying the view of the vast plain that stretches to the horizon.

The Bicuar National Park

For nature lovers, the Bicuar National Park is a must-visit. This park, located about 100 kilometers east of Lubango, is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including antelopes, zebras, and a large number of birds. The park also offers opportunities for hiking and camping.

The Tundavala Springs

The Tundavala Springs are another of the region's natural attractions. This series of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools is located in a crevice in the Tundavala plateau, about 18 kilometers from Lubango. The place is ideal for a picnic day and to enjoy the tranquility of the natural environment.

The Local Culture

In addition to its natural attractions, Lubango also offers a rich local culture. Visitors can explore the local markets, where all kinds of products are sold, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts. The city is also known for its traditional music and dance, and visitors may have the opportunity to witness a live performance.

The Gastronomy

Finally, one cannot talk about Lubango without mentioning its gastronomy. The city offers a variety of local dishes, including funge, a type of polenta made from cassava, and calulu, a stew of fish or meat with vegetables. It's also worth trying the local wine, produced in the vineyards of the surrounding hills.

Gastronomic Products of Lubango

• Funje

  Funje is a traditional dish from Angola that can also be found in Lubango. It is a kind of puree made from cassava or corn flour. It is often served with a meat or fish stew and is a staple food in the Angolan diet.

• Mufete de Cacuso

  The Mufete de Cacuso is a very popular fish dish in Lubango. The cacuso, a type of freshwater fish, is seasoned with garlic, onion, bay leaf, and lemon before being grilled. It is served with boiled sweet potatoes and a sauce of palm oil and tomato.

• Calulu de Peixe

  The Calulu de Peixe is another traditional fish dish from Lubango. It is prepared with dried fish, onion, garlic, tomato, okra, and palm oil. It is often served with funje or rice and is a very tasty and nutritious dish.

• Tropical Fruits

  Lubango is famous for its tropical fruits, especially mangoes and papayas. These fruits can be enjoyed fresh or can be used to make juices, desserts, and jams. They are a sweet and refreshing delight in Lubango's warm climate.

Sporting Activities in Lubango, Angola

Hiking and Trekking

With stunning landscapes, Lubango is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. You can explore famous routes such as the Bicuar National Park and the Serra da Leba.

Paragliding

Experience the thrill of flying over the stunning mountains and valleys of Lubango. The Serra da Leba is a popular spot for paragliding, offering unparalleled panoramic views.

Fishing

The rivers and lakes of Lubango offer opportunities for fishing. The Cunene River is particularly popular, where you can fish a variety of fish species.

Safari

The Bicuar National Park in Lubango offers safaris where you can see a variety of wildlife, including antelopes, zebras, and a variety of birds.

Mountain Biking

With its numerous hills and mountains, Lubango is an ideal place for mountain biking. You can explore the Serra da Leba and other areas by bike for a truly exciting experience.

Places near Lubango

If you are in Lubango and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Huila, Colombia, is a charming tourist destination, famous for its archaeological heritage, the majestic Magdalena River and the Cueva de los Guácharos National Park. Its cuisine is rich in flavors, highlighting the Huila roast and the delicious Achiras dessert.

Namibe, Angola, is an impressive tourist destination with beautiful beaches and desert landscapes. It offers a rich cuisine based on fresh seafood, with specialties such as lobster and grilled fish, delighting all visitors.

Tundavala is an impressive cliff in Angola, famous for its panoramic views. An ideal tourist destination for nature and adventure lovers. Enjoy authentic local cuisine, with dishes based on fresh fish and tropical fruits.