Lyla Lindsey
Angola is home to Kalandula Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Africa. Located in the municipality of Kalandula, Malanje Province, the falls are 105 metres high and 400 metres wide. They are a sacred site, where rituals were once performed to calm the gods. The best time to visit is during the wet season, between May and September, when the volume of water is at its strongest.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Kalandula Falls (formerly Duque de Braganca Falls) |
| Local Name | Quedas de Kalandula |
| Location | Municipality of Kalandula, Malanje Province, Angola |
| River | Lucala River |
| Height | 105 meters (344 feet) |
| Width | 400 meters (1,300 feet) |
| Volume | One of the largest by volume in Africa |
| Distance from Luanda | 360 km |
What You'll Learn
Kalandula Falls: a sacred site
The Kalandula Falls in Angola is a majestic and dramatic natural wonder, and one of the largest waterfalls in Africa. With a height of 105 metres and a width of 400 metres, it is a powerful and relentless force of nature. The falls are located in the municipality of Kalandula, in the northwestern part of the country, in the Malanje Province, and are a little-known hidden treasure.
A Spiritual History
The Kalandula Falls are steeped in spiritual significance. Traditionally, the site is believed to be sacred, where rituals were once performed to appease the gods and bring prosperity to society. The falls are perpetually shrouded in mist, adding to their mystical quality. The roar of the waters, spanning a width of 400 metres with a drop of 100 metres, is an awe-inspiring sight and sound.
A Natural Wonder
The Kalandula Falls are a broad, horseshoe-shaped waterfall along the Lucala River, a tributary of the Cuanza River, Angola's largest river. The volume of the falls is impressive, and during the wet season from May to September, the waterfall is at its most powerful. The best time to visit is early in the morning, when the soft sunlight illuminates the misty cascade, creating a vivid rainbow. The surrounding area is lush and green, and the falls are surrounded by large stones and rocky trails.
A Secluded Destination
The Kalandula Falls are not widely promoted as a tourist destination, and the journey there is long and bumpy due to potholed roads. There are currently no restaurants or shops near the falls, and accommodation is limited to a modest bed and breakfast, the Pousada Quedas de Kalandula, which offers unobstructed views of the falls from its balconies and patio. However, local authorities plan to develop the area to attract more tourists, hoping to showcase not only the divine wonder of the falls but also the beauty of the surrounding area.
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Calandula Falls: a forgotten gem
The Calandula Falls (or Quedas de Calandula in Portuguese) is the largest waterfall in Angola and the second-largest waterfall in Africa. At 105 metres (344 feet) high and 400 metres (1,300 feet) wide, it is an impressive and dramatic sight. The waterfall is set in the northwest of the country, on the Lucala River, a tributary of Angola's largest river, the Cuanza River.
The Calandula Falls is a relatively unknown natural wonder, undeveloped as a tourist destination. This offers a rare opportunity to see one of the world's great natural wonders before it is 'discovered' by tourism. The falls are some 360 kilometres from Luanda, the capital, and the journey takes you deep into the interior of the country. The roads are not in great condition, and the journey is long and bumpy, but it is well worth it for the intrepid traveller.
The falls are said to be a sacred place, where rituals were once performed to appease the gods and ask for prosperity. The falls are perpetually bathed in mist, adding to their mystique. The thundering water creates a cool, spiritual atmosphere, and a vivid rainbow is an almost permanent fixture. The local guide, Pedro Francisco, sums up the experience: "Everybody that comes here like me feels the same feeling because what this landscape shows us is amazing. You can come here with your problems and when you come down here it all blows up. You forget all the problems you have."
The best time to visit Calandula is in the wet season between May and September when the volume of water is at its strongest. Go early in the morning to avoid other tourists and get the perfect photo.
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How to get to Kalandula Falls
Kalandula Falls, formerly known as the Duque de Braganca Falls, is located in the municipality of Kalandula, in the Malanje Province of Angola. It is approximately 360 km from Luanda, the capital of Angola.
By Guided Tour
The easiest way to get to Kalandula Falls is by joining a guided tour, especially if it is your first time visiting Angola. These tours typically last for multiple days and include meals, accommodation, transportation, and an English-speaking tour guide. The tours usually start from Luanda and make their way to Kalandula Falls via Ndalatando, where you can visit the Botanical Garden and learn about Angola's biodiversity. After exploring the falls, the tours often include a visit to Pedras Negras, a site of Angolan resistance against Portuguese rule.
By Car
If you prefer to drive yourself, it is possible to self-drive to Kalandula Falls. However, keep in mind that the roads may be in poor condition with potholes, and it is a long and tortuous drive from Luanda. When driving from Luanda, follow these directions:
- Leave Luanda around 6:30 am and head towards Catete.
- At Maria Teresa, turn left.
- Follow this road for about 50 km until you reach a junction, then turn left towards Golungo Alto. Do not go towards N'dalatando as the road is reported to be in bad condition.
- If you pass the Sonangol gas station immediately after the junction, you have gone the wrong way and need to turn back.
- After the junction, drive for 60 km until you reach another intersection with a fabulous view of high altitude.
- At this new crossing, turn left again.
- After about 20 minutes, you will pass through the city of Lucala.
- Continue for another 30 minutes until you reach the village of Cacuso. Here, turn left towards the falls.
- Note that there are no restaurants or food options at the falls, so be sure to bring your own food and drinks.
By Plane
If you are coming from outside of Angola, you will need to fly into one of the international airports, such as Luanda International Airport (LAD). From there, you can either join a guided tour or rent a car and drive to Kalandula Falls.
It is recommended to visit Kalandula Falls during the wet season, between May and September, when the volume of water is at its strongest. Additionally, going early in the morning is ideal for photography as the soft sunlight creates perfect lighting conditions.
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The best time to visit Kalandula Falls
Kalandula Falls (formerly Duque de Braganca Falls) is one of the largest waterfalls in Africa by volume. The falls are 105 meters (344 feet) high and 400 meters (1,300 feet) wide. They are located on the Lucala River in the municipality of Kalandula, Malanje Province, Angola. The distance from Luanda, the capital of Angola, is 360 km.
However, it is essential to plan your visit well. The roads leading to the falls may be in poor condition, with potholes and slow traffic. Additionally, there are limited dining options, so it is recommended to bring your food and drinks.
To fully experience the falls, consider going on a guided tour. These tours can provide valuable insights into the country's biodiversity and cultural history. Some tours also offer the opportunity to see the falls from both the top and the bottom, providing different perspectives depending on the weather.
In conclusion, the wet season between May and September is the best time to visit Kalandula Falls in Angola. By visiting during this period and planning your trip carefully, you can fully appreciate the majestic beauty of one of Africa's largest waterfalls.
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The history of Kalandula Falls
The Kalandula Falls (formerly known as the Duque de Bragança Falls) are located in the municipality of Calandula, in the province of Malanje, Angola. They are one of the largest waterfalls in Africa by volume and are a popular tourist attraction due to their immense power and beauty. The falls are characterised by their powerful roar, which can be heard from miles away, and the mist that surrounds them, adding to their mystique.
Dating back to the 16th century, the Kalandula Falls have played an integral role in the culture and history of the region. Locals have traditionally believed the site to be sacred, a place where rituals were performed to calm the gods and ask for well-being, health, and prosperity. The name "Kalilandula" is derived from the phrase "The one who crosses the waterfalls" in the local language.
European explorers first discovered the falls in the 16th century, and they became a popular destination for travellers in the 19th century. One well-known explorer described them as a "magnificent cascade of crystal water". The falls were also known as the "Roar of the Kalandula" due to the powerful sound they produced.
The Kalandula Falls are fed by the Lucala River, a tributary of the Lucapa River, and are made up of two sections: the upper and lower falls, joined by the powerful Calandula Channel. The water's force is so strong that it has caused major flooding in the area, leading local villages to ban swimming in the upper part of the falls.
The waterfall is approximately 400 meters wide and 105 meters high, with a flow that can be brutal and unpredictable. The surrounding area offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, birdwatching, boat rides, and simply basking in the stunning views. The falls are a protected area of Angola, recognised for their natural beauty and cultural significance.
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Frequently asked questions
The Kalandula Falls (or Calandula Falls) in Angola is considered one of the best waterfalls in the country. It is one of the largest waterfalls in Africa, with a width of 400 meters and a height of 105 meters. The waterfall is located on the Lucala River in the municipality of Kalandula, Malanje Province, Angola.
The Kalandula Falls are known for their impressive size and power, with a strong and relentless flow of water. The falls are also considered a sacred place in local culture, associated with rituals performed to calm the gods and bring well-being, health, and prosperity.
The wet season between May and September is considered the best time to visit the Kalandula Falls. During this period, the volume of water is at its strongest, creating an even more dramatic spectacle. Visiting early in the morning is recommended for the best photo opportunities and to avoid crowds.
The Kalandula Falls are located approximately 360 kilometers from Angola's capital, Luanda. The journey typically involves a long drive on a bumpy and potholed road. Organized tours are available, offering guided experiences to the falls and nearby attractions.
There are several things to do and see near the Kalandula Falls. You can hike down a steep trail to the bottom of the falls, which takes about 30 minutes, and enjoy the mist and rainbows created by the falling water. There is also a hotel, Pousada Quedas de Kalandula, located near the falls, offering accommodations and breakfast with a view of the waterfalls. Additionally, you can explore the local culture, visit nearby villages, and enjoy the natural surroundings during the drive to the falls.
