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Lulo Diamond Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Lulo Diamond Mine in Lunda Norte Province is world-renowned for producing exceptionally large and high-quality diamonds. It is an alluvial mining operation, where diamonds are recovered from the gravels of the Lulo River and surrounding ancient river terraces. The mine is operated by the Lucapa Diamond Company in partnership with the state-owned Endiama and private investors. Lulo has made global headlines for discovering some of the largest diamonds in Angola's history, most notably the 404-carat '4th February Stone' found in 2016. The mine is particularly famous for its high proportion of Type IIa diamonds, which are chemically the purest and possess extraordinary clarity. By employing state-of-the-art XRT sorting technology, the operation has increased its efficiency in identifying large stones without damaging them. The high-value production from Lulo significantly contributes to Angola's foreign exchange earnings and maintains its status as a premier source of investment-grade diamonds.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	22	23	23	23	23	23	23	25	25	24	22	22
Rain mm	123	125	159	77	11	2	0	17	80	137	189	154

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Lulo Diamond Mine is renowned for the discovery of some of the largest and most valuable diamonds in Angola's history. It plays a major role in the country's diamond sector and attracts international attention.

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Visiting

The mine is a high-security operational area and not open to the public. An exterior view is possible only from a great distance, as the mine is located in a remote region in northeastern Angola.

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Where to view it

Since the Lulo mine is in a remote area, there are no designated viewpoints for visitors. The best view of the surrounding landscape is from the hills along the access roads, giving an idea of the size of the mining area.

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Local products

The main product of the mine is rough diamonds, not intended for direct purchase by travelers. However, in nearby towns such as Saurimo and Dundo, you can buy certified jewelry and local gemstone products.

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Active season

Mining at Lulo operates year-round, with peak activity during the dry season from May to October. During this time, conditions for open-pit mining are optimal, and production runs at full capacity.

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Nearby

A visit to the Lulo mine can be combined with a trip to the towns of Saurimo and Dundo, which are diamond trading centers. The nearby Chicala-Demba nature park or a drive along the Chicapa River are also worthwhile activities.

Geography

Coordinates

-8.32420, 19.23140

Facts

Located in the diamond-rich province of Lunda Norte.
Famous for discovering a 404-carat diamond in February 2016.
A primary source of world-class, chemically pure Type IIa diamonds.
An alluvial mine processing sediments from the Lulo River area.
Operated by Lucapa Diamond Company, Endiama, and Rosas & Pétalas.
Employs advanced XRT sorting technology to identify large stones.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Lunda Plateau35 km · NWExplore →

Lunda Mountains43 km · SEExplore →

Lunda Escarpment77 km · NWExplore →

Lunda Norte Farm92 km · NExplore →

Cuango Diamond Operations138 km · SExplore →

Cafunfo143 km · SExplore →

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Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Lulo diamond mine?

Lulo is a well-known diamond mine in northeastern Angola. It is associated with diamond extraction and major finds in a remote area.

Can you visit the mine?

Normally not. Mining areas are security-sensitive and usually open only to staff or approved professional visits.

When is the best time to travel to the region?

The dry season is the most practical, because roads and access tracks are usually better. In the rainy season, the long approach can become difficult.

What is interesting nearby?

The area is best known for landscape, mining logistics, and small settlements. For travelers it is more adventurous than comfortable.

What is Lulo known for?

Lulo is known for high-quality diamond discoveries and its contribution to Angola’s resource sector. The name carries international weight.

Lulo Diamond Mine: where is it located?

Lulo Diamond Mine is located in Angola.

Lulo Diamond Mine: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Lulo Diamond Mine: why is it worth visiting?

The Lulo Diamond Mine in Lunda Norte Province is world-renowned for producing exceptionally large and high-quality diamonds.

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