Discovering Angola's Hidden Gem: The Spectacular Kalandula Falls
Unveiling one of Africa's majestic waterfalls, the Kalandula Falls remain a hidden treasure with limited footfall. Embark on a journey to witness the breathtaking natural wonder that awaits adventurous explorers.
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Sebastião Gaspar Agostinho was in awe when he visited Kalandula Falls for the first time, expressing, "No one can say that God doesn’t exist when we see the wonders that God has done here."
Agostinho, along with a group of women from his church, took a long bus ride to visit the Kalandula Falls, one of Africa's biggest waterfalls. It was definitely worth the journey.
"I've watched the Kalandula Falls on TV," he mentions. "I've seen photos of the Kalandula Falls, but being here in person today, the experience is truly unique."
The waterfalls, located around 400 kilometers east of Angola's capital Luanda in Malanje Province, are considered sacred in tradition. When visitors witness the immense power of the falls, they can easily see why.
The journey starts at the parking lot near the waterfalls. Even before reaching the main attraction, visitors can already sense the energy in the air from the powerful water crashing onto the rocks below.
To reach Kalandula Falls, you can walk across a field of big stones to the top edge. From this vantage point, you can truly appreciate the immense size and strength of the falls. The water rushes over a span of 400 meters and drops 100 meters down.
The falls also have a spiritual history.
Kalangula Falls was once seen as a spiritual place, where rituals were performed to calm gods.
Kalangula Falls was once seen as a spiritual place, where rituals were performed to calm gods.
Nick Migwi/CNN
The spectacle is wreathed in a cool mist that locals say is part of its spiritual history.
"What the elders believe is that in the past, Kalandula Falls held great significance," shares Nelson Andre, the director of tourism and culture in Kalandula. "It was a sacred site where rituals were conducted to appease the gods and seek blessings of well-being, health, and prosperity for the community."
Kalandula, also known as Calandula, may not be as wide as Victoria Falls, Africa's largest waterfall spanning over 1,700 meters, but it stands tall with a majestic and forceful water flow.
Nelson Andre marvels at the wonder of Kalandula Falls, stating that it is impossible for any man to replicate what occurs there. He notes that regardless of the weather, the water never stops flowing, a constant reminder of nature's beauty. Andre believes that the falls are a masterpiece created by the hands of God.
The Tundavala Gap offers breathtaking views over the hot plains beneath.
The Tundavala Gap offers breathtaking views over the hot plains beneath.
jbdodane/Alamy Stock Photo
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Visitors can enjoy the full experience of the falls by taking a hike down a steep and rocky trail that leads to the bottom. The hike along the Lucala River, which feeds Kalandula, usually takes about 30 minutes.
Once at the bottom, hikers are rewarded with a stunning view that will impress their social media followers. The horseshoe-shaped waterfall surrounds them, creating a breathtaking backdrop of cascading water.
On most days the view will also include a rainbow so vivid you may want to make sure a pot of gold isn’t nearby.
Hidden treasure
The falls are one of the largest in Africa, although less than a third the size of Victoria Falls.
The falls are one of the largest in Africa, although less than a third the size of Victoria Falls.
Pedro Francisco, a local guide who leads visitors to the bottom of the falls every day, expresses, "Everybody that comes here like me feels the same feeling because what this landscape shows us is amazing."
When you visit the Kalandula Falls in Angola, you'll discover a hidden gem. These falls are not widely advertised to tourists and their remote location adds to their charm.
You can escape your problems by coming here. Once you arrive, all your worries seem to disappear in the breathtaking beauty of the falls.
The road connecting the area to Luanda is the only major route, but it is full of potholes and patches of damage, making the journey a long and bumpy one.
Currently, there are no restaurants or shops near the falls, which are the main attraction for visitors in the area. However, local authorities are working to change this.
"We want to create an infrastructure at Kalandula Falls that will draw in tourists and ensure they have everything they need," Nelson Andre explains. "It's not just about the breathtaking natural beauty, but also about the services and amenities available. By providing good services, we can boost tourism in the area."
A warm welcome is waiting for you at Kalandula Falls.
The falls are situated about 240 miles from Angolan capital Luanda.
The falls are situated about 240 miles from Angolan capital Luanda.
There is a modest bed and breakfast called Pousada Quedas de Kalandula. It is situated in a perfect location, on a lush green plateau right by the cascading waters.
Guests staying at the hotel can admire the falls from their balconies and have breakfast on the patio with a clear view. This setting also offers great photo opportunities.
Benvinda Ribeiro, the hotel manager, mentioned that the hotel was initially constructed in the 1950s, dating back to the colonial era.
The hotel was closed during the civil war in Angola from 1975 to 2002, but it reopened in 2017 after a three-year renovation. According to Ribeiro, 70% of the guests are from other countries. She is looking forward to welcoming more local guests to enjoy the experience.
"We welcome all visitors to these amazing sights," she says. "Whether you're from abroad or from Angola, you will always be welcomed with the same warmth and friendliness."
Editor's P/S:
The Kalandula Falls in Angola, Africa, is a truly awe-inspiring sight. The sheer power and size of the falls are breathtaking, and it's easy to see why they are considered sacred by the local people. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the falls, including their history, significance, and accessibility. It also highlights the efforts being made to develop tourism infrastructure in the area.
As a traveler, I am always eager to discover hidden gems like the Kalandula Falls. The fact that these falls are not widely advertised only adds to their charm. I would love to visit them someday and experience their beauty firsthand. I believe that the falls would be a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. The article has piqued my interest in Angola, and I am now looking forward to learning more about this fascinating country.
