Tap water in Angola is generally not safe to drink, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local conditions.
Limited access to reliable water treatment and sanitation leads to a high risk of waterborne diseases. Distribution systems are often compromised, especially outside major cities.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Information compiled from CDC, WHO, and official water providers across Angola.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
If you’d rather not take chances with the tap water, a filter bottle is a smart and affordable solution. We don’t sell these ourselves, but we’ve reviewed the most effective and traveler-approved options to help you stay safe, reduce plastic use, and avoid unnecessary bottled water costs—scroll down to see which ones we recommend.
Health Risks for Travelers
Locals might drink the tap water every day without a second thought, but for travelers, it’s a different story. Your body isn’t used to the bacteria or water treatment systems, which can lead to a not-so-fun experience.
What you could be dealing with:
- E. coli and other bacteria causing traveler’s diarrhea
- Parasites like Giardia from untreated or poorly filtered water
- Hepatitis A or norovirus picked up in areas with poor sanitation
- Even heavy metals if the pipes are outdated or the source is unregulated
Problem spots include:
- Remote villages and rural zones
- Places where floods disrupt the water supply
- Older hotels or buildings using rooftop tanks or old plumbing
Bottom line: clean-looking water isn’t always clean. When you’re abroad, it’s smart to stay alert to water quality and protect yourself from getting sick.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Angola, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Angola
There’s a big gap between urban and rural areas when it comes to clean drinking water. Cities have made progress, but rural communities still face serious challenges. Many homes use shallow wells, which are easily contaminated. Some areas are starting to use reverse osmosis systems to help improve the water quality.
FAQs About Tap Water in Angola
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Many travelers prefer to brush with bottled water just to avoid any chance of waterborne illness.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
For basic hygiene like washing your face, tap water is usually fine—just don’t rinse your mouth with it.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
If the tap water isn’t safe to drink, the ice probably isn’t either—so skip it unless you know it’s filtered.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Even if the water isn’t drinkable, it’s usually fine for washing your body.
Even clean-looking water can be harsh on your skin when you’re abroad. A travel shower filter screws on in seconds and can help. Just check that the showerhead isn’t recessed or built into the wall—you’ll need access to connect it. This one’s a traveler favorite for a reason. Click here to check it out.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
It’s safer to rinse produce with bottled or filtered water, especially if you plan to eat it raw.
Is bottled water expensive in Angola?
Compared to the risk of getting sick, bottled water is a cheap and worthwhile expense.
Many travelers to Angola also explore neighboring countries like Democratic Republic of the Congo, Namibia, or Zambia. It’s worth comparing water safety across all legs of your journey.