Explore Africa: Angola

The seventh-largest country in Africa, Angola stretches across southwestern Africa, sharing borders with Namibia, Zambia, and the two Congos. The country is one of striking contrasts, with vast deserts, lush rainforests, highlands, and an expansive Atlantic coastline that provides plenty to do and see. 

Before European colonization, the Kingdom of Kongo dominated northern Angola. Queen Nzinga led the resistance against Portuguese colonizers in the 17th century. However, Portuguese colonists eventually took over and ruled the country until its independence in 1975. After gaining independence, it endured a devastating 27-year civil war that ended in 2002. 

Despite ongoing challenges, Angola's diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and warm hospitality make it a must-see destination for those who want to explore Africa's less-traveled paths.

Angola is home to the truly spectacular Kalandula Falls, one of Africa's largest waterfalls at 344 feet high and 1,300 feet wide. Kissama National Park, also known as Quicama National Park, operates as a park, but poaching has impacted local wildlife. Still, Angola and neighboring countries are working to return the park closer to its original status by repopulating animals and there are animals like elephants, antelopes, buffalo, zebra and others roaming freely. The park is also known as a bird lover’s haven, with birdwatching a popular activity.

Conservation efforts in Cangandala National Park have focused on protecting the endangered Giant Sable Antelope, the country’s national symbol. The Maiombe Forest in Cabinda Province provides tourists with a dense rainforest with rare wildlife and hidden waterfalls. It’s the second largest forest in the world behind the Amazon in South America.

The Iona National Park stretches along Namibia's “Skeleton Coast,” offering desert landscapes. Similar to other parks, the war eradicated much of the wildlife, but they’ve begun to repopulate with zebra, oryx, and small populations of cheetah, leopard, and hyaenas. The Tundavala Gap, a canyon, cuts through Angola's highlands, providing panoramic views. A must-see along the coast, Mussulo Island, provides pristine beaches.

Angola has around 90 ethnic groups, many who have maintained ancient practices. Music and dance are critical to daily life.

The country sees 500,000-600,000 visitors annually, but infrastructure outside Luanda, the capital and commercial center remains limited. And while rebuilding after the civil war is in progress, repercussions including landmines, have lingered, so traveling without a guide is not recommended. 

For those willing to venture beyond the ordinary, Angola presents an opportunity to discover a nation of wonder. Long may she thrive!

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Angola

https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/angola

https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/angola

https://www.britannica.com/place/Angola

https://www.responsiblevacation.com/vacations/angola/travel-guide

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g293762-Angola-Vacations.html

https://national-parks.org/angola/kissama

https://www.globalnationalparks.com/angola/cangandala/#google_vignette

https://welcometoangola.co.ao/en/directorio/floresta-do-maiombe/