× title-placeholder message-placeholder 🛖 TakeYourBackpack.com find your next backpacking destination covering all countries in the world extensive info per country personal stories and photos learn how to backpack like a pro Skip to main content home advisor destinations Africa Asia Europe North America South America Oceania All countries Where to go? inspiration Photos & stories World cities Famous hikes National parks Best beaches Famous festivals World wonders UNESCO sites All highlights planning search bucketlist Angola 🇦🇴 Mount Moco Trail Hike the Mount Moco Trail, Angola. Check things to see along the trail and best time to go Explore Pedras Negras de Pungo Andongo Explore Serra da Chela Trail Intro | Highlights | Map | Best time to go | Where to stay? | Details | Guide | Angola | FAQ | What to expect when backpacking in Mount Moco Trail The Mount Moco Trail in Angola offers a mix of stunning views and a bit of a workout, stretching about 10 kilometers with a moderate difficulty level. As you trek, you’ll be treated to lush greenery and sweeping vistas that make the effort worthwhile, especially when you reach the summit. Getting to the trailhead can be a bit of a challenge, as public transport options are limited, but it’s doable if you’re willing to navigate a few local buses or shared taxis. Compared to other hikes in the region, like the more popular Serra da Leba, Moco’s less-traveled path gives you a chance to enjoy nature without the crowds, though it might lack some of the well-maintained trails and facilities you’d find elsewhere. Just be prepared for a few rocky sections and the occasional wrong turn! Discover everything you want to know in the 📖  Angola Travel Guide . Best time to go: May – September Duration: 3 days Distance: 12 kilometers Total ascent: 1,200 meters Get your Angola Travel Guide 💡 Top Highlights Best things to see along Mount Moco Trail Angola Grab your own Travelguide for only Summit panorama and sunrise/sunset light — The high summit gives unbroken views over Angola’s rolling highlands; on a clear morning the light turns the valleys into a patchwork of shadow and gold. It’s the kind of wide-open vista that makes the climb worth it even if your legs complain. Montane grasslands and seasonal wildflowers — The mountain sits in a cool, high-altitude band where grassland communities dominate, and after the rains you get carpets of bulbs and small wildflowers you won’t see on the lowland trails. The plant textures and colours here feel distinctly different from the miombo woodlands elsewhere in Angola. Birdlife and other range-restricted wildlife — Mount Moco is a hotspot for birds and other specialists that favour higher elevations; expect good chances of seeing range-restricted species, plus a healthy cast of butterflies and frogs. For birdwatchers it’s quietly rewarding because there aren’t many other places nearby with the same mix. Misty cloud pockets and cool microhabitats — Parts of the route climb into mist and cloud, where mosses, ferns and stunted shrubs create a lush, almost temperate feel. Those sudden shifts from bright sun to dripping cloud are atmospheric and give the hike a variety most lower trails can’t match. Low-impact local culture and remote solitude — The trail passes through sparsely used grazing land and a few small mountain communities, so you’ll get simple, genuine encounters rather than tourist trappings. Combine that quiet local life with very few other hikers and you’ve got one of Angola’s best off-the-beaten-path hiking experiences. Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact me. To view the map, please enable javascript Loading the map 🌍 CLICK TO FILTER city town unique site national park hike beach festival region show all 🌤️ When to Go? Best Time to visit Mount Moco Trail Hiking the Mount Moco Trail in Angola is a fantastic adventure, but timing your trip can make all the difference. The best months to hit the trail are from May to September. This period falls within the dry season, so you can expect less rain and more manageable conditions. Temperatures during this time typically hover around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day, which is pretty comfortable for hiking. As you get into the higher elevations, it can get a bit cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings, so packing a light jacket is a smart move. You might find temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F) at night, but nothing too extreme. If you decide to go outside this window, just be prepared for the rainy season, which runs from October to April. You’ll encounter muddy trails and potential downpours, which can make the hike a bit more challenging. Pro tip: Bring plenty of water and some snacks, but also consider packing a small trash bag. It’s a great way to keep the trail clean and help out the environment while you enjoy the stunning views. Plus, it gives you an excuse to take a break and soak it all in! JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 🛏️ Where to Stay? Best Places to Stay in Mount Moco Trail If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option. Best hostels in Angola Best quality hotels in Angola 🥾 Get Your Walking Shoes Trail Details of Mount Moco Trail Total Distance: The Mount Moco Trail stretches approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) round trip, making it a manageable hike for most adventurers. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 4 to 6 hours on the trail. This includes time for breaks, taking in the views, and perhaps snapping a few photos of the stunning scenery. Difficulty Level: Moderate. While it’s not a technical climb, there are some steep sections and rocky paths that require a bit of scrambling. Good footwear is a must. Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the town of Huambo. To get there via public transport, … read more 👉 Total Distance: The Mount Moco Trail stretches approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) round trip, making it a manageable hike for most adventurers. Estimated Duration: Expect to spend around 4 to 6 hours on the trail. This includes time for breaks, taking in the views, and perhaps snapping a few photos of the stunning scenery. Difficulty Level: Moderate. While it’s not a technical climb, there are some steep sections and rocky paths that require a bit of scrambling. Good footwear is a must. Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the town of Huambo. To get there via public transport, you can take a bus from Luanda to Huambo, which typically takes about 12 hours. Once in Huambo, local taxis or shared vans (called ”tuk-tuks”) can get you to the trailhead. Major Landmarks Along the Route: Mount Moco Summit: The highlight of the hike, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Waterfalls: Depending on the season, you might encounter some lovely waterfalls along the way, especially after rainfall. Local Villages: You’ll pass by a few small villages, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. Type of Terrain and Scenery: The trail features a mix of rocky paths, dirt trails, and some overgrown sections. The scenery varies from dense forests to open grasslands, with occasional rocky outcrops providing stunning views. Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: Vegetation: Expect to see a mix of pine trees, shrubs, and various flowering plants. The area is rich in biodiversity. Wildlife: Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and possibly even monkeys if you’re lucky. The sounds of nature are a constant companion on the trail. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget your camera—this trail offers some unforgettable sights! ⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that’s off, I’d love to hear from you,so I can update it for fellow travelers. ✈️ Get your own digital guidebook Angola Travel Guide Discover the best Angola has to offer — handpicked hikes, must-see cities, hidden gems, local festivals, and more. All in one handy downloadable pdf Angola 161 pages full of highlights ✅ Why visit & When to go ✅ 82 must-see highlights ✅ 21-day country itinerary ✅ Top hikes & National parks ▼ More inside ✅ Best areas to stay ✅ History of country & cities ✅ Essential phrases & customs ✅ Key festivals & Events ✅ Money, food & transport Get your Guide Now Start planning today! 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Explore Angola Mount Moco Trail isn’t the only highlight in Angola. Explore all what Angola has to offer. 🌆 Cities        Compare the top best cities : Luanda, Benguela, Lobito , see all 🏡 Towns        Compare the top best towns : Ambriz, Catumbela, Caconda , see all ⭐️ Unique sites        Compare the top best wonders : Tundavala Fissure, Pico de angola, M’banza-Kongo, see all 🏞️ National parks        Compare the top best parks : Bicuar, Iona, Quiçama , see all 🚶‍♀️ Hikes        Compare the top best hikes : Kalandula Falls, Binga Waterfall Trail, Mount Moco Trail , see all 🏖️ Beaches        Compare the top best beaches : Praia da Lua, Praia do Mussulo, Praia de Cabo Ledo, see all 🎎 Festivals        Compare the top best festivals : Luanda Carnival, Luanda International Jazz, Luanda International Film , see all 🏝️ Regions        Compare the top best regions : Namibe Desert, Kwanza River, see all Explore Angola 0 0 0a 1 1 1a 2 2 2a 3 3 3a 4 4 4a 5 5 5a Photos of Angola: Google © ✈️ Ready to Go? Mount Moco Trail FAQ Get your own 2025 guide book for Angola The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure. Angola Grab your own Travelguide for only How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Mount Moco Trail? Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus. Best hostels in Angola Best quality hotels in Angola What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Angola? Angola is a mix of climates and terrains, so pack for variety. It’s humid in the north with rainforests, while the south is more arid. Luanda and other coastal areas are hot and humid, so breathable clothing is key. If you’re heading inland or to the highlands, like Huambo, be ready for cooler nights. Culturally, Angolans appreciate modest dressing, especially in rural areas, so think loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Beaches are casual, but remember some places frown on swimwear away from the sand. Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere. Money & Documents Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies) Passport photographs Credit and debit cards (on world profile) Cash (US$ or €) Money belt Vaccination proofs Clothing Light, quick-dry clothing No jeans, too heavy Ultralight rain/wind jacket Thermo underwear Quick-dry towel Sunglasses Electronics Mobile phone + charger Power bank Travel adapter Local sim card (buy it on arrival) Health Toothbrush Deo Sunscreen, lips sunburn Anti-diarrhea Paracetamol Vitamin C Blister plasters Iodine (for desinfecting wounds) Anti-mosquito (DEET) Bit of emergency toilet paper Nail scissors Others Small number lock Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes) Deck of cards(!) Ear plugs Travel pillow Spare glasses/contacts Kobo reader Moneybelt “Best way to carry your important documents” Light Backpack “Handy, lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who travel light” Large Backpack “Waterproof large lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who want to bring a lot” Outlander daypack “Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack, available in many colours” Carry on Backpack 40L “Whenever you can, travel with just carry-on luggage, saves costs and makes traveling much easier” Quick dry pant “Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling” Light rain jacket “Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry” Thermo underwear “Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets” Quick dry towel “Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling” Travel adapter “Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs” Number lock “No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories” Packing cubes “Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest” Travel pillow “Light and great for flights and long bus journeys” Lightweight, small mosquito net “Easy to carry, great for those nights where mosquitos are all around you” Kobo Reader “For reading 1.000s of books while carrying only one” Power bank “Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more” DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera “The camera for quick videos while traveling” Waterproof action camera “Great action camera for outdoor active enthousiasts” Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D Compact Camera “When you need a large optical zoom (e.g. for safaris), look no further. The Lumix has a massive 20-1200mm zoom lens” Go Pro “The absolute champion in action videos” Ultra light tent “With only 1.08kg (2.38 pounds) this one is just the best you can get.” Ultra light sleeping airbed “Ultra light, still very comfortable and isolating!” Vitamin C “Vitamin C pills to compensate for less balanced food” Blister Plasters “Blister plasters for those long hikes” Iodine “Iodine for self desinfecting small open wounds” Mosquito repellant “Let‘s give those mosquito‘s no chance with 98% DEET” Got more questions? See the FAQ for all questions and answers for backpacking in Angola. I 💚 feedback Final Thoughts If you’re heading to Mount Moco, be ready for some jaw-dropping views that’ll make you forget your legs are burning. The mist rolling in at sunrise? Pure magic. Just a heads-up: the trail can get slippery after rain, so pack some grip. And don’t rush—take a moment to soak in the local vibe; the people here are just as stunning as the scenery. 🫱 Share this page 🙋‍♂️ Give feedback last page update: 22 November 2025 Take  Your  Backpack Home Advisor Destinations Inspiration Planning Search To sign up for the nesletter, please enable javascript STAY UP TO DATE Sign up for the newsletter Africa Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Côte d’Ivoire Dem. Rep. of the Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Republic of the Congo Réunion Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Asia Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Türkiye (Turkey) Turkmenistan United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Europe Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia (Czech Republic) Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Türkiye (Turkey) Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican City State North  America Antigua and Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Belize British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Barthélemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands United States United States Virgin Islands Oceania American Samoa Australia Cook Islands East Timor Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu South  America Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Curaçao Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Cookies | About me To use these links, please enable javascript © takeyourbackpack.com | Contact To contact me enable javascript