Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Malanje gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from MEG to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Malanje, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Angola vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Malanje is roughly 60 minutes from MEG via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Malanje from MEG
You have two main options for getting from Malanje Airport into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at MEG may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Malanje’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Malanje, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Malanje, two standouts are:
- Malanje Central Market (Mercado Municipal) — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
- Queen Nzinga Monument — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MEG, check out Malanje Airport Waiting Area or Airport Information & Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Malanje: Restaurante Recanto dos Sabores and Malanje Palace Hotel Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Snack Bar or Refreshments Stand. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MEG should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Angola and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at MEG include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Angola also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Malanje exploring the streets or relaxing at MEG, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.