Kissama (Quiçama) National Park

Day Safari

Open savanna, ancient baobabs and a classic day out within reach of Luanda.

Overview

Kissama (Quiçama) is Angola’s best-known wildlife area within a day-trip of Luanda. Expect open savanna, ancient baobabs and riverine scenery, with chances to see antelopes, giraffe, zebra and rich birdlife. Sightings vary by season and luck — go for the landscapes and the experience as much as the animals.

Trip Profile

Duration: Full day from Luanda (very early start).
Getting there: ~2.5–3.5 hours by road south; tours typically include 4×4 transport.
On the ground: Park entry + guided game drive; some tours include lunch or a Kwanza River section.

Wildlife You May See

Large mammals: giraffe, zebra, warthog; various antelopes (e.g., kudu, reedbuck, hartebeest, oryx).
Smaller fauna: baboons, monkeys; occasional jackal.
Birdlife: hornbills, bee-eaters, rollers, raptors, waterbirds near the Kwanza.
Nota: sightings vary by season, time of day and luck — go pelo cenário e a experiência.

When to Go

Dry season: generally easier wildlife viewing and better road conditions.
Weekends can be busier; start early to maximise sightings and avoid heat.

Sample Day Plan (from Luanda)

05:00–06:00 Pickup in Luanda; early start to beat traffic/heat.
08:30–09:00 Arrive near the park; formalities/entry.
09:00–12:00 Game drive through open savanna and baobab areas.
12:00–13:00 Lunch stop (packed lunch or lodge, depending on operator).
13:00–15:00 Short second drive or exit via the Kwanza section.
17:30–19:00 Back in Luanda (traffic dependent).

What to Bring

Light long sleeves, hat, sunscreen.
Water and snacks (check if lunch is included).
Binoculars and camera (extra battery/power bank recommended).

Costs & Operators — What’s Typical

Common inclusions: 4×4 with driver/guide, park entry, water; sometimes lunch.
Possible add-ons: lodge lunch, Kwanza boat section, drinks, tips.
Group vs private: shared lowers per-person cost; private gives more flexibility (photography).
Payments: confirm card acceptance; many prefer bank transfer/Multicaixa/cash.

Booking & Availability — set expectations

Availability, vehicles and responsiveness can vary across operators — this is normal in developing destinations. To keep your day smooth, confirm details up front and have a backup plan.

Checklist before you book

Vehicle: Is a 4×4 provided? If not, ask about using your own car with a park guide.
Inclusions: Park entry, guide, game drive, lunch, water — what’s included vs. extra?
Pickup & timing: Exact pickup point/time in Luanda and estimated return.
Group size & seating: Max pax per vehicle; window seats for photographers.
Payment & refund: Cash vs cards; deposit policy; weather/road contingency.

Tips

Enquire early for weekends and holidays; keep a backup date if possible.
WhatsApp usually works best; send short, specific questions in a single message.
If vehicles are unavailable, consider a Kwanza River + Miradouro da Lua day as an excellent alternative.

Responsible Travel

Keep to designated tracks; never feed wildlife.
Follow your guide’s instructions and maintain safe distances.
Carry out all rubbish; leave no trace.

Photo Tips

Light: early morning and late afternoon give the best colour and contrast.
Lenses: 200–400 mm for wildlife; 24–70 mm for landscapes/baobabs.
Practical: dust protection, cleaning cloths, spare battery/power bank.
Behaviour: stay quiet, no flash near wildlife, don’t lean out of the vehicle.