Introduction
Off travellers' radars since the 1970s, Angola has been severely scarred by decades of civil war. The end of the conflict and a period of peace have meant that some intrepid travellers have returned to take Angola holidays and discover the secrets hidden amidst the equatorial heat.
Although the infrastructure is still recovering and security remains an issue in some parts, activity and adventure holidays are an option again. Luanda, the country's capital, is the gateway to the interior. Full of contrasts and extremes, the city has a number of sights and museums worth pausing at on the way.
Relaxation can be had on the coconut-backed beaches at Mussolo and Palmeirinhas, where fishing and water sports are popular.
The Kissama National Park was once home to a wealth of wildlife but much of it was killed during the civil war, or by poaching. The importation of animals and restocking of the park has begun but at present bird watching is the most popular activity in one of Africa's most surreal, empty parks.
