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Kissama National Park

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Animal habitat
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Kissama National Park (Angola)

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Kissama National Park, located about 75 kilometers south of Luanda, is Angola's most famous wildlife sanctuary. It was established as a game reserve in 1938 and declared a national park in 1957. Covering an area of nearly 10,000 square kilometers, the park gives an impressive variety of landscapes, from dense forests along the Kwanza River to vast savannas and characteristic baobab trees. Following devastating losses of wildlife during the civil war, the park was revitalized by Project Operation Noah's Ark in 2001, which involved flying in elephants and other large animals from South Africa. This ambitious initiative saved the park from ecological collapse and turned it into a hub for ecotourism. Today, visitors can again observe herds of elephants, giraffes, and antelopes in their natural habitat. The park plays a crucial role in protecting Angolan biodiversity and serves as an important research area for conservationists. Its proximity to the capital makes it a popular destination for nature observation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C292929282826242526282828
Rain mm27407387251037234835

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The best time to visit is the dry season from May to October, when many animals gather at water holes. Reintroduced elephants are also frequently seen during this period.
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Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are when animals are most active, especially elephant herds. Midday is best spent resting in the shade.
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Etiquette
Always maintain a safe distance of at least 30 meters from elephants and other wildlife. Feeding or disturbing animals is strictly prohibited to protect the natural habitat.
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What to bring
Good binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens are essential for wildlife viewing. Light, light-colored clothing, sturdy footwear, and plenty of water are recommended.
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Getting there
The park is located about 70 km south of Luanda and is accessible via a paved road. A 4x4 vehicle is still recommended, especially during the rainy season.
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What to expect
Although wildlife density is good, sightings are not guaranteed - shyer species require time. Plan for at least two full days of game drives.

Geography

Coordinates
-9.51610, 13.43580

Facts

  • Kissama is the only fully functional national park near Luanda.
  • Operation Noah's Ark brought animals from South Africa in 2001.
  • The Kwanza River forms the northern boundary of the park.
  • Baobab trees are a defining feature of the park's flora.
  • The park was originally established as early as 1938.
  • It covers a total area of approximately 9,960 square kilometers.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Quissama Nature ReserveQuissama Nature Reserve5 km · SWExplore →
Quiçama National ParkQuiçama National Park12 km · NWExplore →
Kwanza ValleyKwanza Valley26 km · SExplore →
Cabo LedoCabo Ledo27 km · SWExplore →
Kissama National ParkKissama National Park30 km · NWExplore →
KwanzaKwanza36 km · SEExplore →
Sanctuary of MuximaSanctuary of Muxima58 km · NExplore →
Estádio 11 de NovembroEstádio 11 de Novembro62 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How difficult is a visit to Kissama National Park?
Usually easy to moderate; it depends on roads, safari and weather.
When is the best time to go?
In the dry season, roughly May to October, conditions are better.
Are there parking and toilets?
Main entrances often have basic facilities, but not much more.
What weather risks should I expect?
Heat, strong sun, and muddy roads in the rainy season are the main risks.
Is the park suitable for families?
Yes, if the family likes safari atmosphere and longer rides.
Kissama National Park: where is it located?
Kissama National Park is located in Angola.
Kissama National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kissama National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Kissama National Park, located about 75 kilometers south of Luanda, is Angola's most famous wildlife sanctuary.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Caxito — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Caxito
Caxito is the capital of the Bengo province in Angola.

History & landmarks

🗺️
Monument to the Battle of Kifangondo
A monument commemorating the battle that took place during Angola's transition to independence in 1975.

Nature

Kwanza — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Kwanza
The longest river entirely within Angola.
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Cuanza Lake
Reservoir on the Cuanza river.
Dande — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Dande
River north of Luanda.

More places

Quissama Nature Reserve — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Quissama Nature Reserve
A protected natural reserve encompassing diverse habitats for Angola's iconic wildlife.
Quiçama National Park — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Quiçama National Park
A premier national park known for its successful wildlife rehabilitation programs.
Kwanza Valley — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Kwanza Valley
The central river valley.
Fort of Muxima — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Fort of Muxima
A fortress built in 1599, protecting Portuguese trade on the Kwanza River, located near one of the country's most important pilgrimage si…
Bengo Forest — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Bengo Forest
A forest region in Bengo province showcasing indigenous woodland and vegetation.
Port of Barra do Dande — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Port of Barra do Dande
A deep-sea port under construction intended to relieve Luanda and serve as a strategic logistics center.
Atlantic Ocean — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Atlantic Ocean
Angola's west coast at the Atlantic.
Historic Quibaxe — Kissama National Park (Angola)
Historic Quibaxe
A historic center of coffee production and one of the first sites of the anti-colonial uprising in 1961.