Kissama National Park Safari from Luanda: Wildlife, Kwanza River Boat Tour & Miradouro da Lua
A full‑day safari from Luanda into Kissama National Park pairs classic savannah game drives with a boat trip on the Kwanza River and a stop at the lunar‑like Miradouro da Lua. Expect close encounters with giraffes and zebras, a cultural stop at Benfica market, and a traditional mufete lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate before and during the tour
Bring a reusable water bottle or use the provided bottled water — the sun and dusty roads dehydrate quickly.
Sun protection is nonnegotiable
Wide‑brim hat, sunglasses and high‑SPF sunscreen will make long vehicle waits and the boat deck comfortable.
Bring binoculars and a long lens
Animals can be at a distance on open plains; optics greatly improve sightings and photography.
Follow guide and boat crew instructions
Tracks and boat currents can be unpredictable — stay seated when asked and avoid approaching animals on foot.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Benfica Traditional Craft Market — good for handmade goods and local snacks
- •Small fishing villages along the Kwanza estuary — quiet sunset views and authentic riverside life
Wildlife
- •Giraffe
- •Zebra
Conservation Note
Tourism supports on‑the‑ground conservation, but the park still faces poaching and habitat pressures — stick to designated routes and avoid feeding wildlife to minimize impact.
Quiçama National Park lies south of Luanda and has been a focus of post‑conflict wildlife reintroduction and protection efforts to restore species lost during Angola’s civil war.
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Closed‑toe shoes handle dusty roads and short walks around viewpoints.
Sun hat & sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong equatorial sun during open‑vehicle drives and on the riverboat.
Binoculars
Improves distant wildlife viewing on the plain and along the river.
Reusable water bottle or hydration packEssential
Keeps you hydrated between provided bottled water refills during the full‑day tour.
Common Questions
How long is the tour from Luanda?
The experience is a full‑day excursion of approximately 8 hours, including road transfer, safari drives and a short Kwanza River boat trip.
Is hotel pickup included?
The tour uses an air‑conditioned vehicle for transfers; confirm your specific pickup point when booking as pickup options vary.
What wildlife will I typically see?
Common sightings include giraffes, zebras and various antelope species; birding along the river can also be excellent.
Is the boat ride safe for all ages?
Yes, the boat portion is guided and generally safe, but infants must sit on laps and the operator notes the trip is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious back or heart conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Quiçama, Bengo
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average physical condition; most time is spent seated with short walks on flat ground
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