The Republic of the Congo

The Republic of the Congo is a Central African country of thick rainforests, winding rivers, and vibrant urban life. Brazzaville, the capital, sits on the Congo River across from Kinshasa, offering colorful markets, colonial architecture, and a relaxed vibe. Outside the city, Odzala-Kokoua National Park shelters lowland gorillas, elephants, and rich biodiversity. The coast near Pointe-Noire features beaches and oil hubs, while inland villages preserve traditional ways of life. Congo’s music, particularly soukous, fills the streets with rhythm. Often overlooked, the Republic of the Congo offers natural beauty and cultural depth for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

The Republic of the Congo, often called Congo-Brazzaville to distinguish it from its larger neighbor, is a lush, jungle-filled country in Central Africa where rivers, rainforests, and rare wildlife still dominate the landscape. Most travelers come for the chance to explore Odzala-Kokoua National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse parks, where you can track lowland gorillas, spot forest elephants, and experience some of the most pristine rainforests left on Earth. The capital, Brazzaville, sits peacefully along the Congo River, directly across from Kinshasa, but is far more relaxed. With its leafy streets, French cafes, and colorful markets, Brazzaville makes a surprisingly pleasant base.

Brazzaville and Pointe Noire are the main tourist hubs and are where most of the hotels and noteworthy attractions are located, but should you find yourself off the beaten track a shot of local palm wine and a roasted guinea pig should ease your anxiety.

Guinea pig anyone? Lovers of these adorable creatures may wish to give the Congo a miss if they do not want to see locals tucking into what looks like their pet back home. Other native delicacies include cassava or manioc, fresh peanut butter and exotic food such as bats and caterpillars. Most of the hotels are found in the country’s capital of Brazzaville and at the beach center of Pointe Noire. Brazzaville hotels offer modest amenities, but those in Pointe Noire are cleaner with a higher standard. Most hotels in Congo provide well-prepared food, but some bars offer drinks only. Do not eat bush meat unless you wish to spend your vacation on the toilet.

Travel in Congo is expensive, mainly because it’s still geared toward specialist wildlife tourism and business travelers. Outside of Brazzaville, you’ll find only eco-lodges, basic hotels, and research camps, most concentrated near Odzala. Meals are simple in rural areas (lots of cassava, grilled fish, and local greens), but in Brazzaville, you can enjoy French-inspired cuisine, croissants, and fresh river fish. Western comforts are limited outside the capital, but food and supplies in Brazzaville are good.

Getting around is not easy. 4x4 vehicles are required outside major cities, and domestic flights or charters are needed to reach parks like Odzala. French is the official language, and while many urban Congolese speak it fluently, English is rare outside the tourism sector. Congo is relatively safe compared to many of its neighbors, especially in Brazzaville and northern regions like Odzala, though the Pool region south of the capital can be unstable.

Why Go to the Republic of the Congo?

• Lowland Gorilla Tracking in Odzala: Trek through dense rainforests to observe western lowland gorillas in their natural environment.
• Pristine Rainforest Exploration: Explore untouched forests, rivers, and swamps teeming with biodiversity in Odzala-Kokoua National Park.
• Brazzaville’s Relaxed Vibe: Visit landmarks like the Basilica of Sainte-Anne, stroll along the Congo River, and sip coffee at riverside cafes.
• Sapeurs Culture: See the famous Sapeurs, Congolese men known for their flamboyant, elegant fashion, often on weekend promenades.
• Birdwatching & Wildlife: Spot rare birds, forest buffalo, duikers, and even elusive pangolins in one of Africa’s richest ecosystems.
• River Adventures: Take boat trips on the Congo River, the lifeblood of the region, or explore smaller tributaries teeming with life.
• Real Adventure Travel: Congo is a destination for travelers who value raw nature, cultural authenticity, and places still far from mass tourism.

Who Might Not Enjoy the Republic of the Congo?

• Travelers Expecting Highly Developed Infrastructure: Outside of Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, transportation networks are limited. Roads in rural areas can be poor, and domestic flights are irregular and expensive.

• First-Time or Casual Tourists: Travel in the Republic of the Congo can be logistically challenging. Limited tourism services, unpredictable schedules, and language barriers (French is the official language) make it better suited for experienced travelers.

• Luxury or Resort-Focused Visitors: While Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire have a few comfortable hotels, luxury tourism infrastructure is very limited. Amenities outside major cities are basic, and service standards can vary.

• Safety-Conscious Travelers: Although relatively safer than some neighbors, the Republic of the Congo still has risks, particularly in border areas. Crime in urban areas can also be a concern, requiring vigilance.

• Vegetarians or Vegans: The local diet heavily features meat, fish, and starchy foods. Plant-based options are rare outside of a few international restaurants in major cities.

• Nightlife or Entertainment Seekers: Nightlife is modest even in the capital cities, and nonexistent elsewhere. Cultural performances and local bars exist but there are few organized entertainment venues.

• Travelers Wanting Quick and Easy Nature Access: While the country has remarkable natural areas like Odzala-Kokoua National Park, reaching them requires significant planning, costly permits, and often private tour arrangements.

• Tourists Without Knowledge of French: English is not widely spoken. Communication outside major tourist hotels or embassies can be difficult without at least basic French skills.

• Visitors Needing Reliable Medical or Internet Services: Medical care is basic outside of Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, and internet access can be slow or unavailable in rural areas.

Highlights

• Brazzaville: the country’s run-down capital is filled with markets and lively bars. The National Museum of Congo, Basilique Saint Anne and the Temple Mosque make this the best place to start exploring Congo and ease yourself into Congo life, with pizza and nightclubs still close at hand.
• Pointe Noire: this port city in the south has a string of clean and palm tree-lined beaches ideal for sunbathing. The water temperature remains constant regardless of the season.
• Ouesso: is the starting point for exploring the country’s Nouabale-Ndoki National Park.
• Loubomo: found between Pointe Denis and Brazzaville, Loubomo is a frequent stopover for airplanes and trains. It is the capital of Niari Province and used as a gateway to Gabon or Libreville.

• Beaches: swimming in the clear waters of Pointe Noire is highly recommended.
• Shopping: for souvenirs and trinkets is best done in Brazzaville. Markets are usually open day and night, with Ave de Loua being a must-visit market.
• Bar-hopping: the Congolese run very lively bars in Brazzaville offering food, drinks and music. Get ready to party in the run-down but hip capital city.
• Nature-trekking: head for Ouesso and see different animals unique to Congo in the Nouabale-Ndoki National Park.
• Waterskiing: in Kouillou and Congo rivers is a popular water activity that you should not miss.

Malaria, HIV/AIDS and water-related diseases are widespread in the Congo. There are only few hospitals and medical facilities in Congo, with extremely limited facilities in rural parts. Terrorism threat levels and street crime incidences are low, especially in Pointe Noire and Brazzaville. However, it is always best to safeguard your valuables and money, and avoid wandering the streets after dark unaccompanied, particularly if you’ve overdone it on the local palm wine.