Destination Unlocked Podcast

Angola with Africa specialist Ian Packham

In this episode, we're unlocking the south-west African nation of Angola with guidebook writer, Ian Packham. Ian has become a specialist in Africa, from his first adventure travelling around the continent using only public transport, to later trips undertaken as research for guide books.

GuestIan Packham
Published24 June 2026

The conversation

Episode show notes

In this episode, we’re unlocking the south-west African nation of Angola with guidebook writer, Ian Packham. Ian has become a specialist in Africa, from his first adventure travelling around the continent using only public transport, to later trips undertaken as research for guide books.

If you’re intrigued to visit a country that your friends probably haven’t visited, then this could be the one for you. And for nature lovers, Angola has a lot to offer.

Ian describes how huge this country really is and gives a range of useful, practical tips for making the most of a visit to the country, which is shaking its reputation as a war-torn nation.

Instead, Ian finds Angola to be friendly and welcoming towards tourists, with the benefit of not yet being a mainstream destination. What does that mean? Well, if you head out there now, you’ll be enjoying breathtaking beauty, great local food, and a welcoming city (in Luanda)… without any crowds.

Ian’s latest edition of the Bradt Guide to Angola is out now. If this conversation has you booking flights to Luanda – his guidebook will be a trusty companion for your travels.

Meet your local voice

Ian Packham

Connect with Ian Unlock more.Join our free club for exclusive travel content Ian is a multi-award nominated full-time freelance travel writer with multiple years of experience specialising in Africa. He has travelled across the continent for nearly 2.5 years in total, visiting 40 of its 54 countries. Alongside his work for Bradt – updating guides…

Meet Ian Packham

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