🗣️ Phrases in Angola’s languages
Portuguese is the official language and the most spoken in cities, but the national languages carry huge cultural weight: Umbundu (the largest, from the central highlands), Kimbundu (Luanda and north-central) and Kikongo (north). Knowing how to greet in one of them opens doors. Here are essential phrases to help your trip.
⚠️ Phrases under review by native speakers — use them as a starting point and confirm pronunciation locally. Spelling can vary by region.
Umbundu
The largest national language, from the central highlands (Huambo, Benguela, Bié).
Wakala ciwa?
Are you well? / How are you?
Ndakala ciwa
I’m well
Twapandula
Thank you (we thank)
Kimbundu
Spoken in Luanda and the north-central region.
Kiebi?
How are you? / how’s it going?
Ngasakidila
Thank you (I thank)
Kalunga
Greeting / hello
Kikongo
Spoken in the north (Uíge, Zaire) and the old Kingdom of Kongo region.
Mbote
Hello
Mbote, ngeye?
Hello, and you?
Matondo
Thank you
Inga / Ve
Yes / No
💡 And to arrive already connected and practise on the way, the Angola eSIM has you covered.