Birding Angola

Angola is diverse country, with lush rainforests in the north, cool mountains, huge waterfalls and arid desert in the southwest. The natural diversity is accompanied by a diversity of local cultures. 

An enthusiast birder can discover 1000 bird species, of which 14 are endemic, while dozens of other near-endemic and highly localized bird species also feature prominently. This is a testament for the many habitats within the country, making it without a doubt one of the finest birding countries in Africa, and a destination not to be missed by any world birder.

This safe and peaceful country offers many opportunities to the adventure traveler including trekking, biking, rock-climbing, surfing and more. Other natural attractive includes the bizarre Welwitschia plant, the endangered Giant Black Sable antelope, the breathtaking Calandula Waterfall, the spectacular Tundavala cliffs, and many other gems.

General Information about Angola:

Capital: Luanda, on the northwestern coast. 

Population: 31 million

Currency: Angolan Kwanza

Languages: Portuguese is the official language, though English is widely spoken in the large cities. Umbundu, Kimbundu, Kikongo, and Chokwe are also spoken by millions. 

Climate: varies from rainforest in the north to arid desert in the south; mostly hot but cooler during the dry season (May to October)

Located: in southwestern Africa, bordering Namibia, Zambia and the Congos. 

How to get there: Direct flights to Luanda from Lisbon, Paris, Amsterdam, Brussels, Frankfurt, Johannesburg, and Sao Paulo.

Visa: An easy online visa service is available for citizens of most countries. Alternatively, a visa can be obtained in any Angolan embassy. 

Whether you are a tour operator organizing a bird-watching group, or an individual birding adventurer looking to discover it all by yourself, Angola has a variety of services and is ready for you!

Topographic map by Sadalmelik / Public domain. Geographical context by Addicted04 / CC BY-SA