Luanda in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Luanda

30°C (87°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

End of rainy season means cleaner air and spectacular sunsets over the bay - visibility can reach 15 km (9.3 miles) on clear days
Cacuaco Beach and this destination are at their most beautiful with calmer seas and temperatures perfect for swimming at 26°C (79°F)
Local mango and cashew season begins - street vendors offer the sweetest varieties at Roque Santeiro Market for 200-500 kwanza
Shoulder season pricing for accommodations - typically 20-30% lower than June-August peak season rates

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms still occur 10 days of the month, usually between 2-5pm, disrupting outdoor plans
Humidity remains high at 70%, making midday walking tours uncomfortable without proper preparation
Some coastal excursions may be cancelled due to unpredictable Atlantic swells from late summer weather patterns

Best Activities in March

Fortaleza de São Miguel Historical Tours

March's cooler morning temperatures (24°C/76°F) make this the ideal time to explore Angola's most important fortress. The late rainy season has washed away dust, revealing the coral stone architecture at its most photogenic. Best visited 8-10am before the heat peaks.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours 5-7 days ahead through licensed cultural operators. Typical tours cost 3,000-5,000 kwanza including museum entry. Look for guides certified by the Ministry of Culture. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Mussulo Island Day Trips

The transitional weather in March offers the best conditions for island excursions - calmer seas than January-February but without the crushing heat of May-July. Water temperature is perfect at 26°C (79°F) and afternoon storms usually clear by evening.

Booking Tip: Book boat transfers 10-14 days ahead during March as this marks the start of the popular season. Day trips typically range 8,000-15,000 kwanza including transfers and lunch. Choose operators with covered boats for sudden weather changes.

Miradouro da Lua Geological Excursions

March's variable cloud cover creates dramatic lighting conditions perfect for photography at these lunar-like cliffs. The 67 km (41.6 mile) drive is most comfortable in March's moderate temperatures before the dry season heat intensifies.

Booking Tip: Half-day excursions typically cost 12,000-18,000 kwanza including 4WD transport and guide. Book with operators providing bottled water and sun protection. Best departure times are 7am or 2pm to avoid midday heat.

Roque Santeiro Market Cultural Walks

March is peak season for tropical fruits and local crafts as vendors stock up after the rainy season. Morning visits (7-9am) offer cooler temperatures and the freshest produce. This is when you'll find the best cashews and seasonal textiles.

Booking Tip: Walking tours range 2,500-4,000 kwanza for 2-3 hours with cultural interpreters. Book through registered cultural tourism operators who understand market etiquette and can negotiate fair prices for purchases.

Benfica Nightlife Districts

March evenings are perfect for exploring Luanda's music scene as outdoor venues benefit from the cooler post-storm air. Semba and kizomba clubs are most active during this shoulder season with both locals and expats in attendance.

Booking Tip: Evening cultural tours including multiple venues typically cost 6,000-10,000 kwanza. Look for operators who include transportation between districts and can arrange entry to members-only clubs. Book 3-5 days ahead.

Kissama National Park Safari Day Trips

March marks the beginning of optimal game viewing as animals gather near water sources and vegetation is lush from recent rains. The 70 km (43.5 mile) journey is most comfortable in March's variable weather before dry season dust returns.

Booking Tip: Full-day safaris range 25,000-35,000 kwanza including park fees, guide, and lunch. Book with operators using 4WD vehicles and providing wet weather gear. Departure at 6am recommended to maximize animal sightings.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Luanda International Jazz Festival

Annual celebration of Angolan and international jazz featuring outdoor concerts in Marginal promenade venues. March's variable weather creates dramatic backdrops for evening performances against the Atlantic.

Late March

Festa da Tamarineira

Traditional celebration marking the end of tamarind harvest season with music, dance, and local cuisine in neighborhood markets throughout the city. Best authentic cultural experience outside tourist areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket - thunderstorms hit suddenly but clear within 30-45 minutes, leaving high humidity

Breathable cotton or linen clothing in light colors - synthetic fabrics become unbearable in 70% humidity

SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours - UV index of 8 causes burns within 15 minutes

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - afternoon storms can be intense and unpredictable

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - streets can become slippery during brief heavy downpours

Insect repellent with DEET - post-rainy season increases mosquito activity especially near the bay

Lightweight long pants for evening - some upscale restaurants and cultural sites require covered legs

Portable umbrella - more practical than full rain gear for short afternoon storms

Electrolyte supplements - high humidity and heat can cause rapid dehydration even with limited activity

Power bank and adapters - frequent brief power outages during storm season can drain devices

Insider Knowledge

Local commuters avoid outdoor activities between 2-5pm when thunderstorms are most likely - plan indoor museum visits or lunch during this window

Taxi prices increase 20-30% during rain due to demand - download the taxi app Kubinga for fixed rates even in bad weather

March is when locals buy the year's best cashews at Roque Santeiro Market - vendors offer samples and prices drop significantly in bulk purchases of 5kg or more

Many restaurants offer 'época das chuvas' (rainy season) menus featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables only available March-April - ask servers about specials not listed in English

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities in early afternoon when thunderstorms typically begin - move sightseeing to early morning or late afternoon

Wearing synthetic clothing that traps moisture - cotton and linen breathe better in the high humidity and dry faster after unexpected rain

Not carrying small kwanza bills - many vendors and taxi drivers can't change large notes, especially during busy post-storm periods when everyone is moving around