Tchitato, Angola
Region: Lunda Norte
Geographic Coordinates: -7.345000, 20.819800
Temperature Range: 18.0°C to 35.0°C (64°F to 95°F)
Climate: Dry and hot climate with occasional rainfall during November to March.
Population: 195136
Language: Portuguese
Tchitato is a small town situated in the Lunda Norte province of Angola, Approximately 650 kilometers from the capital city of Luanda. The town has a population of around 30, 000 people and is renowned for its rich history, Cultural heritage, Beautiful landscapes, And natural resources. The Calandula Falls are one of the main attractions in Tchitato. They are considered to be one of Angola’s most stunning natural wonders and are located about 50 kilometers from Tchitato. The falls consist of several cascading waterfalls that drop over 100 meters into a series of pools below.
Visitors can hike along trails that wind through lush forests to reach the falls or take a guided tour. The local market is another popular destination in Tchitato where visitors can find an array of traditional crafts, Clothing, And food items. It offers visitors an opportunity to experience local culture firsthand while also supporting local artisans and businesses. Tchitato has a rich history dating back thousands of years when it was home to various indigenous tribes before being colonized by Portugal in the late 19th century.
Today remnants of this colonial past can still be seen throughout Tchitato in its architecture and landmarks. Despite its remote location, Tchitato has recently undergone significant development thanks to investments from both private companies and government initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure throughout Angola’s rural areas. This development has helped bring new opportunities for education, Healthcare services job creation as well as improved access to clean water supply systems for locals living within this region.
Overall, Tchitato offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, Cultural heritage, And historical significance that makes it an ideal destination for those looking for an authentic African experience away from crowded cities with modern amenities but still enjoy comfortable accommodation options and a range of activities to choose from.’
Noteable History
- The Battle of Tchitato occurred in 1976 during the Angolan Civil War between FAPLA and UNITA. It was a significant victory for UNITA.
- Jonas Savimbi was born near Tchitato and played a crucial role in the Angolan Civil War as a leader of UNITA.
- Tchitato was once part of Portuguese Angola until independence in 1975.
- Kalandula Falls, located near Tchitato, are one of Angola’s natural wonders.
- Historically, Tchitato was part of the powerful Lunda Kingdom that controlled much of northern Angola and southern Democratic Republic Congo from the 16th to 19th centuries.
- Queen Nzinga Mbande fought against Portuguese colonization in what is now Angola during the late 16th century and early 17th century but wasn’t directly associated with Tchitato.
- Today diamond mining is an important economic activity around Tchitato after foreign companies like De Beers Group were limited to Luanda due to civil war led by UNITA forces until recently when new mines were discovered around Lunda Norte province including Chiumbe mine located near t’Chicapa river basin close to town bordering neighboring country DRCongo.
Museums and Things To See
- Tchitundu-Hulu Rock Paintings – The rock paintings at Tchitundu-Hulu are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer a glimpse into the ancient history of the region.
- Cangandala National Park – This national park is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, antelopes, and primates.
- Museu Regional de Dundo – The regional museum in Dundo features exhibits on the history and culture of the Lunda people.
- Kalandula Falls – One of the largest waterfalls in Africa, Kalandula Falls is an impressive natural wonder located near Tchitato.
- Forte de Nossa Senhora da Conceição – This historic fort was built by Portuguese colonizers in the 17th century and offers views over the surrounding countryside.
- Serra da Chela – A scenic mountain range with stunning views over southern Angola.
- Mwene Vunongue’s Palace Ruins – These ruins offer a glimpse into the past glory of one of Angola’s most powerful kingdoms.
- Lagoa Carumbo Nature Reserve – A wetland area with abundant birdlife and other wildlife species to see on guided tours or walks around its trails.
- Kuito Cathedral- It is one of Angola’s most beautiful churches that survived during civil war times as well as many earthquakes.
- Museu do Dundo- It features various exhibitions about local culture including artifacts from pre-colonial period till nowaday life style showcasing Angolan traditions.
- Tombwa Village- Tombwa is known for its fishing industry which makes it an ideal place for seafood lovers to explore picturesque landscapes while enjoying fresh seafood dishes.
- Tunda Vala Fissure- It is a natural wonder that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, and it’s perfect for those who love hiking or trekking.