Saurimo, Angola

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Saurimo, Angola

Region: Lunda Sul

---

Geographic Coordinates: -9.650000, 20.400000

Population: 393000

Language: Portuguese

---

Saurimo is a city situated in the eastern region of Angola, Within the Lunda Sul province. It is well-known for its abundant diamond mines and has earned the nickname of City of Diamonds. With a population exceeding 100, 000 people, It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Angola. The climate in Saurimo is tropical with two distinct seasons: a dry season from May to October and a wet season from November to April. The average temperature throughout the year ranges between 20°C and 28°C. Saurimo offers several attractions that make it an exciting destination for tourists.

One such attraction is the Tchitundo-Hulo rock paintings, Which are believed to be over 5, 000 years old and depict everyday life scenes such as hunting and dancing. Another attraction worth visiting in Saurimo is Dala Waterfalls located about 30 km away from the city center. These waterfalls are surrounded by lush vegetation making it an ideal spot for picnics or simply enjoying nature’s beauty. Regarding infrastructure, Saurimo boasts modern amenities such as hospitals, Schools, Banks, Hotels, Restaurants and shopping centers making it an ideal place for both business travelers and tourists alike.

The city’s economy heavily relies on diamond mining with several international companies operating within its borders. However local authorities have been taking steps towards diversifying its economy through agriculture with emphasis on cash crops like coffee beans which have high export potential. In recent years there has been significant investment made towards improving road networks connecting Saurimo to other parts of Angola which will likely lead to increased economic growth opportunities for this bustling City of Diamonds.’

---

---

1. Tundavala Gap: A natural canyon that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Lunda Sul Museum: A museum showcasing the cultural heritage and history of the region.
3. Saurimo Cathedral: A beautiful Catholic church that is a well-known landmark in Saurimo.
4. Dala Waterfalls: A picturesque waterfall located near Saurimo that is a popular spot for picnics and swimming.
5. Cacolo Natural Park: A protected area known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, and monkeys.
6. Cangandala National Park: Another protected area known for its unique flora and fauna, including giant sable antelopes.
7. Lagoa Carumbo: A scenic lake surrounded by lush vegetation that is ideal for birdwatching and fishing.
8. Casa do Governador Museum: An old colonial building converted into a museum showcasing the history of Angola’s governors during colonial times.
9. Calonda Dam: An impressive dam built across the Calonda River that provides electricity to many parts of Angola.

Note: Before planning any trips to Angola, it’s essential to check travel advisories as some areas may be unsafe due to political instability or crime rates.

---

1. Saurimo, Angola is primarily known for its diamond mining industry.
2. The city is home to several diamond mines, including the Catoca mine, which is one of the largest in the world.
3. Other industries in Saurimo include agriculture and fishing.
4. The city also has a small manufacturing sector that produces goods such as textiles and processed foods.
5. Additionally, there are some service industries in Saurimo, including retail and hospitality businesses.

---

1. The Portuguese established a settlement in Saurimo in 1917 during their colonial rule over Angola.
2. During the Angolan Civil War (1975-2002), Saurimo was heavily affected by violence and displacement.
3. Jonas Savimbi, leader of UNITA (National Union for the Total Independence of Angola), was born near Saurimo in 1934, playing a significant role in the Angolan Civil War.
4. Agostinho Neto, who became Angola’s first president after independence from Portugal in 1975, visited Saurimo multiple times during his presidency.
5. Diamond mining has become an important industry for Saurimo in recent years and contributed to its economic growth and development.
6. In 2019, heavy rains caused flooding and landslides that left several people dead and displaced thousands from their homes in Saurimo and other parts of Lunda Sul province.

---

1. Saurimo Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of the Lunda people.
2. Diamang Museum is a fascinating attraction that offers insights into the diamond mining industry in Angola, featuring displays on geology, technology, and social impact.
3. Monumento ao Trabalhador is a monument dedicated to the workers who built Saurimo during its early years as a mining town.
4. Igreja de São João Baptista is a historic church built in 1956 with unique architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
5. Parque Nacional da Cameia is a stunning national park located outside of Saurimo that boasts hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Casa dos Estudantes do Ultramar was once an old colonial building but now serves as an art center showcasing works by local artists.
7. Mercado Central de Saurimo is a vibrant marketplace where visitors can sample local foods, purchase handmade crafts, and interact with locals.
8. Lunda Norte Provincial Government Building is an impressive modern building designed by Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira that stands out for its striking architecture alone and makes for an interesting visit.

---

---

---

1. Festival da Paz: This is an annual festival celebrating the end of the civil war in Angola. It features music, dance, poetry readings and other cultural activities.
2. Festa do Município: This celebration takes place on August 28th to commemorate the founding of Saurimo as a municipality. The event includes parades, traditional dances and food fairs.
3. Carnaval de Saurimo: An annual carnival celebration that takes place before Lent begins featuring colorful costumes, music and dance performances.
4. Festival Internacional de Cinema de Angola: An international film festival held annually in Luanda with screenings also taking place in other cities including Saurimo.
5. Dia da Cultura Nacional: Celebrated on January 8th every year to commemorate the birth of Angolan poet António Agostinho Neto who was also the first president of Angola after independence from Portugal was achieved in 1975.
6. Dia dos Heróis Nacionais: Celebrated on September 17th every year to honor those who fought for Angola’s independence from colonial rule including Agostinho Neto himself who led the struggle for liberation against Portuguese colonialism.

---

• Muamba de Galinha: A traditional Angolan dish made with chicken and palm oil sauce.
• Calulu: A stew made with dried fish or meat and vegetables such as okra and cassava leaves.
• Pirão: A thick porridge made from cornmeal or cassava flour served with stews.
• Mufete: Grilled fish served with a side of beans and rice.
• Frango no Churrasco: Grilled chicken marinated in garlic, lemon juice, and spices.

Some popular restaurants in Saurimo that serve these dishes include:

• Restaurante Kilamba
• Restaurante Tchirima
• Restaurante Oásis
• Churrascaria Luso-Angolana
• Restaurant Casa da Tia Lúcia

---



Parks and Recreation

1. Parque da Juventude is a public park that boasts walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds.
2. Parque Nacional da Cameia is a national park renowned for its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.
3. Clube Náutico de Saurimo is a recreational club that offers swimming pools, tennis courts, and other sports facilities.
4. Praia do Rio Muachicungo is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking along the river.
5. Estádio Municipal das Mangueiras is a stadium that hosts local soccer matches and other sporting events.
6. Jardim Botânico de Saurimo is a botanical garden with various plant species from Angola and around the world.
7. Lagoa do Mussapa is a lake where visitors can fish or rent boats for leisurely rides on the water.
8. Museu Regional de Saurimo showcases the cultural heritage of the region through exhibits of art, artifacts, and historical documents.

---



Leave Footprints In The Sand.

---