Kwanza River Mangroves

The mangroves at the mouth of the Kwanza river lie in the Barra do Kwanza area, a little over 80 km south of Luanda, where Angola's largest river meets the sea. It is a landscape of channels, mangrove roots, dense forest and, further inland, savannah with baobabs.

The way to get to know the area is by boat, along the river and through the channels in the mangrove forest. Tourist lodges on the riverbank, such as Mangais, run boat trips, sport fishing and safaris, as well as offering accommodation and food.

The area is rich in wildlife: waterbirds, sea turtles and, according to local guides, African manatees. The Parque Nacional da Quiçama (Quiçama National Park) lies on the other side of the river, so this trip combines well with a safari.

Sunset over the river is the loveliest moment of the day, with the water changing colour and the mangroves in silhouette. The small villages along the banks give you an idea of what life is like beside the Kwanza.