Places To Visit In Congo With Thing To Do
Congo, also called Congo-Brazzaville, is a central African country with rainforest reserves that are habitats for gorillas. Brazzaville is the capital city of the country which lies across the Congo River from Kinshasa, the capital of neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Immersing oneself in the distinctive ambiance of the country is an enriching experience. The contrast between the vibrant energy of Brazzaville and the serene tranquility of the Sangha forest ensures a refreshing change of scenery.
Each area boasts its own array of entertainment and attractions, complemented by a diverse range of landscapes. Below we have shown to 10 Places To Visit In Congo where you can have the best things to do.
10 Things To Do In Congo Brazzaville
1. Brazzaville: A Captivating City
Brazzaville serves as the capital of the Republic of Congo, located on the right bank of the Congo River. This vibrant and lush city is a must-visit destination, offering an excellent starting point for a Congo Safari. Spanning 10 kilometers, it faces its larger counterpart, Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Although Brazzaville is a lively urban center, it does not attract a significant number of tourists, which contributes to its authentic charm. The city presents a diverse array of attractions, including museums, charming markets, historic neighborhoods, and workshops dedicated to ceramics and sculpture.
Notable landmarks and points of interest include the Basilica of Sainte-Anne du Congo, the Sacré-Coeur Cathedral, the Poto-Poto painting school, and various workshops throughout the city, alongside its bustling markets and historic districts. The Mungali Bakongo and Poto Poto neighborhoods are particularly vibrant, offering visitors an immediate immersion into the Congolese culture upon arrival.
Places To Visit In Congo
2. The Congo Basin: An Extraordinary Ecosystem
The Congo Basin ranks among the largest equatorial forest regions globally. It is a crucial location for a Congo Safari, spanning six countries and recognized as the second most significant green lung of the planet, following the Amazon rainforest. For over 50,000 years, the Congo Basin has been integral to the region, supplying essential resources to nearly 75 million inhabitants.
In the northeastern part of the Congo Basin lies the trinational Sangha site, which encompasses three countries: Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and the Republic of Congo. This site includes three national parks that collectively cover an area of 750,000 hectares. Its distinctive feature is the exceptional level of conservation, which has allowed for the preservation of an unspoiled natural environment, ensuring a captivating experience for those embarking on a Congo Safari.
The Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park is situated in Congo-Brazzaville, to the north of Ouesso, and is part of the Trinational Sangha site, which includes the Dzanga Sangha Park in the Central African Republic and the Lobéké Park in Cameroon. At the core of Nouabalé-Ndoki lies Mbeli Baï, a true sanctuary of tranquility. This 13-hectare marshy area is inhabited by populations of elephants, buffalo, and gorillas, in addition to thousands of bird species.
Places To Visit In Congo
3 – Engaging with the People of the Congo
A safari in the Congo presents a unique opportunity to delve into the rich culture and traditions of the Congolese people.
The Congo is characterized by a diverse array of ethnic groups, varying by region. In the northern forests, indigenous communities such as the BaAka pygmies continue to reside within the Congo Basin forest. Although a comprehensive census has not been conducted, estimates from 1984 suggested that they constituted approximately 2.29% of the population.
The indigenous peoples of the Congo Basin have inhabited these primary forests for millennia. The pygmies represent one of the last remaining indigenous groups in this African forest. With the pressures of forest exploitation and modernization, their cultural practices and traditions face significant threats. Once semi-nomadic, many of these communities have transitioned to a more sedentary lifestyle.
Places To Visit In Congo
4. A Distinctive Flora
Embarking on a safari in Congo Brazzaville presents a remarkable opportunity to explore an array of unique plant life. The Congo Forest, often referred to as the Congo Basin Forest, exemplifies a pristine forest ecosystem, remaining largely untainted by human intervention. Spanning 180 million hectares across six Central African nations, it serves as a habitat for numerous iconic plant and animal species.
The region’s humid tropical climate, characterized by an average maximum temperature of 30°C and a minimum of 21°C, coupled with substantial annual rainfall, fosters an environment where vegetation flourishes abundantly.
This forest holds significant ecological value, offering a wealth of goods and services, and its economic importance is evident, both as a provider of raw materials and as a regulator of the climate.
However, the forest faces threats from human development, poaching, and deforestation, rendering it a vulnerable area. Therefore, the preservation of the Congo Basin forests is crucial, not only for the ecological balance of Africa but also for the well-being of the planet as a whole.
Places To Visit In Congo
5. A Symbolic African Wildlife
The wildlife found in Congo Brazzaville is remarkably diverse, particularly within the forested regions that have remained largely untouched. This area is inhabited by both common and widespread species, as well as several rarer and endangered ones.
During a safari in Congo, one may encounter African elephants, chimpanzees, bongos, lowland gorillas, okapis, bonobos, buffalo, hippos, various fish, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species, among others. These animals coexist within a rich tapestry of wildlife, safeguarded by the region’s diverse ecosystems, including Baï, forest, and savannah.
Places To Visit In Congo
6. The Congo River and the Sangha River
Congo Brazzaville boasts an abundance of rivers, prominently featuring the Congo River. Stretching 4,700 kilometers (2,922 miles), it ranks as the second longest river in Africa, following the Nile, and is the eighth longest globally. Originating in the highlands of the Democratic Republic of Congo, it traverses three nations before discharging into the Atlantic Ocean. This river, along with its numerous tributaries, nourishes the world’s second largest tropical rainforest.
The Livingstone Falls in the Democratic Republic of Congo obstruct navigation from the sea; however, certain sections of the river remain navigable. Notably, the stretch between Kinshasa and Kisangani offers a navigable corridor of 2,495 kilometers, making it an excellent route for safari or cruise exploration. A significant portion of Central Africa’s trade is conducted via the river and its adjacent railways.
The river serves as a vital source of running water and sustenance for the communities residing along its banks. Its substantial flow also contributes to hydroelectric power generation, harnessed by various dams.
The Sangha River, measuring 790 kilometers in length, originates in Cameroon and flows into the Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo. This river is easily navigable and meanders through the forests of the Congo Basin, with its banks accessible via the Expéditions Ducret cruises from Brazzaville to Ouesso.
Places To Visit In Congo
7. Explore the grandeur of the Loufoulakari Falls
Situated in the southwestern region of the country, Loufoulakari and Bela are remarkable waterfalls located 75 kilometers south of Brazzaville. Renowned as the most striking waterfalls in the nation, they provide a stunning vista of the Congolese rainforest. Rising 291 meters above sea level, these falls present an extraordinary landscape where the might of nature is showcased amidst a lush expanse of greenery.
8. Experience the stunning vistas of the Gorge de Diosso
Commonly referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Congo,” this natural wonder serves as an excellent stop during a Congo safari. Formed by the rains from the Atlantic coast, the gorge features rugged ridges and red rock cliffs that soar up to 50 meters high, overlooking a valley rich in vegetation.
Places To Visit In Congo
9. The Atlantic Coast
Situated to the west, the Atlantic coast is home to the nation’s second-largest city, Pointe-Noire, which serves as the economic hub. The city’s deep-water port and abundant oil reserves have established it as a vibrant center for entertainment, business ventures, fashion, and cultural interactions.
The rugged coastline near the city features several stunning beaches that are popular with families, including Pointe Indienne beach, which is perfect for a day trip. The Atlantic coast is also known for its waves, making it a favored destination for surfers.
From July to September, one can witness the migration of whales as they travel from the Antarctic to the Gulf of Guinea to give birth, returning to the cooler southern waters by the end of September. Additionally, between September and April, it is possible to observe turtles nesting along the shore. The region’s waters are rich in fish, providing ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to indulge in their passion.
Places To Visit In Congo
10. The Trou de Nguela
The Trou de Nguela also known as God’s Hole, is situated 80 kilometers from Brazzaville. This expansive basin features steep, grassy slopes interspersed with shrubs, and it contains a small elevation at its center. Although the origins of this unusual geological formation are not fully understood, the area is recognized for its distinctive landscape and serves as a revered site for pilgrims.
