Tucked away in Angola’s Atlantic Coast, Quicama National Park is one of the country’s most captivating natural wonders. Boasting a rich array of wildlife, diverse landscapes, and a commitment to conservation, Quicama is a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts.
With its rich diversity of flora and fauna, Quicama National Park offers a unique glimpse into the natural heart of Angola. Established in 1958, the national park features a variety of fascinating ecosystems, including expansive savannas, lush gallery forests, and serene wetlands, each supporting a vibrant array of wildlife.
Beyond its natural allure, Quicama represents a significant conservation effort, highlighting the vital interaction between local culture and the environment. Here’s our guide to exploring this African paradise.
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Overview of Quicama National Park
Also known as Kissama, Quicama National Park is one of Angola’s largest and most visited protected areas, covering about 10,000 square kilometers. The national park, referred to locally as “Parque Nacional do Quicama” or “Parque Nacional da Quissama,” is the only fully operational national park in Angola.
That’s down to the fact that Angola’s wildlife has been severely impacted by years of civil war, poaching, and hunting. Situated along the western edge of Angola, Quicama borders the Atlantic Ocean. It also serves as a floodplain for the Cuanza River to the north, while the Longa River forms its southern boundary.
The national park features a diverse range of landscapes, from Baobab woodlands and dense thickets to open grasslands, creating a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife. The riverine vegetation along the main rivers further enhances the biodiversity of the park, supporting the survival of its diverse flora and fauna.
Wildlife in Quicama National Park
Quicama National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, though its mammalian population is not as dense as those found in some neighboring countries. The national park is actively involved in the Lion Conservation Unit program, which aims to repopulate Africa’s lion population.
Visitors can spot species like bushbuck, buffalo, eland, elephants, giraffes, ostriches, roan antelope, waterbuck, wildebeest, and zebras. Quicama is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wealth of nesting and migratory bird species. Birdwatching has become one of the park’s most popular activities.
In addition, the park plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation efforts, including the historic Operation Noah’s Ark, which began in 2001. This initiative involved relocating animals, particularly elephants, from overpopulated parks in South Africa and Botswana to Quicama, marking the largest such operation of its kind and significantly contributing to the park’s wildlife restoration.
Best Time to Visit Quicama National Park
The best time to visit Quicama National Park for wildlife viewing is between June and September, during Angola’s cooler and drier “Cacimbo” season. This misty season lasts from May to September. It offers optimal conditions for spotting wildlife, as the reduced rainfall means animals are more likely to gather around waterholes, making them easier to observe.
The cooler temperatures also make for more comfortable game drives and hikes. In contrast, the wet season from October to April can make travel more challenging due to rain and humidity. The park is typically closed during these months to protect travelers from potential flash floods. Also, the dense vegetation can obscure wildlife sightings.
Getting to Quicama National Park
Getting to Quicama National Park is relatively easy, as it is located about 70 kilometers south of Luanda, Angola’s capital. The national park can be reached primarily by car, with the journey taking about 1.5 hours. But for first-timers, navigating the logistics of a self-drive can be overwhelming.
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, it’s highly recommended to join a guided tour. Most guided tours offer hotel pickups in Luanda, taking the stress out of transportation and allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic drive to the park. It’s also a great way to squeeze in day trips to other hidden gems of the country that you would easily miss if you made the trip by yourself.
Other Activities in Quicama National Park
In addition to traditional game viewing from a safari vehicle and birdwatching, Quicama National Park offers a variety of other activities to enhance your experience. Visitors can enjoy scenic river cruises, beach walks, and even fishing in the park’s waterways.
For a more immersive experience, guided walking safaris allow travelers to explore the wilderness on foot, offering a closer connection with nature. While the park is not known for extensive hiking trails, the Beach Trail provides a relaxed opportunity to stroll along the coastline. Here the floodplain meets the hills of the park, offering stunning views of the diverse environment.
For a unique perspective, guided boat rides around the park allow visitors to see the terrain from the water. Additionally, a visit to Calumbo, with its iconic pilgrimage church, and a stop at the local market provide a cultural touch to the adventure.
Park Fees in Quicama National Park
The entrance fees for Quiçama National Park are Kz 2,000 (about $2.19) per vehicle and Kz 4,000 ($4.38) per person. Also, if you wish to embark on a safari within the park, there is an extra charge of Kz 4,000 per person for this experience.
FAQs
What animals are in Kissama National Park?
Kissama National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including species such as bushbuck, buffalo, eland, elephant, giraffe, ostrich, roan antelope, waterbuck, wildebeest, and zebra. While the park’s mammalian population may not be as dense as that of neighboring countries’ national parks, it still offers impressive wildlife sightings, particularly for those keen on larger animals.
Also, Kissama is a bird lover’s paradise, with abundant bird species that make it an ideal destination for avid birdwatchers seeking unique and vibrant avian encounters.
Why is Kissama National Park closed during the rainy season?
Kissama National Park is closed during the rainy season primarily due to the increased risk of flooding. Heavy rains can cause rivers and streams to swell, making the park’s trails and roads impassable or unsafe. To ensure the safety of tourists and to protect the park’s delicate ecosystems, the park remains closed until the dry season, when conditions are safer for exploration.
Conclusion
Quicama National Park offers a rare opportunity to witness the splendor of Angola’s natural landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re on a safari, birdwatching, or hiking through its diverse terrains, the park provides an unforgettable African adventure. With its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and continued conservation efforts, Quicama stands as a true gem of Angola’s natural heritage.
