Located on the West coast of Southern Africa, Angola was under colonial rule until November 11, 1975, date on which it became an independent nation. It extends over an area of 1,246,700 Km2. With an Atlantic coastline stretching for over 1.650 kms, mighty rivers flow into wide estuaries depositing sediments they have brought with them from the high plateaus to form numerous small islands, bays and sandbanks and where excellent beaches can be found. In Luanda, special mention must be given to the beaches of Ilha do Cabo, Mussulo, Palmeirinhas, Corimba and Santiago. In Benguela there is Morena, Restinga, Caóta, Caotina, Baia Azul and Baia Farta and finally in Namibe, two more, Das Miragens and Azul. Although the climate is such that the beaches can be visited all year round, it is in fact during the hot season that they are most frequented. The bars all filled and the local music and dancing provide an animated and exotic atmosphere that mixes well with the mystery of the African nights.