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Travel Guide
Visiting Congo
Select your passport to instantly check if you need a visa.
Avoid Some Regions
UK FCDO: Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Updated 2025-12-10
Discover
Top Attractions in Congo
The most iconic and unmissable experiences this country has to offer.
UNESCO World Heritage
Odzala-Kokoua National Park
One of Africa's oldest parks, Odzala-Kokoua protects rainforest rich in western lowland gorillas, forest elephants, and forest buffalo. Guided treks and river journeys offer a rare close look at Congo Basin wildlife.
Nouabale-Ndoki National Park
Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, this remote park is prized for its untouched forest and habituated gorillas. Its swampy clearings, or bais, draw elephants and other wildlife into the open.
Basilique Sainte-Anne
This striking green-tiled church in Brazzaville is a landmark of mid-20th-century architecture. Its soaring nave and pointed arches make it one of the capital's most photographed buildings.
Wise
Your bank marks up every USD you spend in Congo. Wise doesn't.
- No foreign transaction fees
- Free ATM withdrawals up to your limit
- Pay in local currency at the real rate
4.8 ★ App Store·4.8 ★ Google Play
Airalo eSIM
Your phone plan was built for home. This one was built for Congo.
- No SIM swapping
- No data roaming charges
- Active in minutes
4.7 ★ App Store·4.6 ★ Google Play
Health & Safety
Health & Emergency Info
Before You Travel
Before you travel check that: your destination can provide the healthcare you may need you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. Emergency medical number There’s no central number for emergency services. Check for local medical facilities and carry contact details with you. Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. Vaccine recommendations and health risks At least 8 weeks before you travel: check the latest vaccine
Full health advice (FCDO) →Emergency Numbers
Police117
Fire118
Health information sourced from UK FCDO. Always consult a travel health professional before departure.
Practical Info
Travel Essentials
Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Congo
Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Republic of Congo page at Yoogo.
The Republic of Congo uses the Central African CFA franc (XAF). Cash is the primary means of payment. ATMs are available in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire but are unreliable. Cards are accepted at some upscale hotels. US dollars and euros can be exchanged at banks.
Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire are the safest areas, though petty crime including bag-snatching and pickpocketing occurs in both cities. The Pool region south of Brazzaville has experienced intermittent instability. Border areas with the DRC and Central African Republic carry elevated risk. Exercise heightened caution, avoid displaying valuables, and check current conditions before travel.
Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire are connected by CFCO rail and domestic flights. Roads in the south are generally passable; roads elsewhere can be poor, particularly during the rainy season. Taxis operate in main cities. Travel to remote regions such as Odzala-Kokoua National Park requires organised tours or 4WD vehicles.
The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, offer the most comfortable conditions for travel. The rainy season from March to May and October to November can make roads difficult and reduce visibility for wildlife viewing.
French is the official language. Lingala and Munukutuba serve as widely spoken lingua francas across the country. Over 60 Bantu languages are spoken by various communities.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Hepatitis A, typhoid, cholera, meningitis, and rabies vaccinations may be advised. Healthcare is limited outside major cities; comprehensive medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended.
Tipping is not a formal requirement but is appreciated. In restaurants frequented by visitors, rounding up the bill is customary. Guides and drivers who provide good service appreciate a gratuity.
Airtel and MTN provide mobile coverage in major cities. Coverage is limited outside urban centres. Internet is available at hotels in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. Prepaid SIM cards are available in the capital.
Congolese culture values warmth, hospitality, and respect. Always greet people before beginning any interaction. Congolese music, particularly soukous, is a source of immense national pride. Photography of government buildings and military installations is prohibited. Dress modestly outside beach and resort areas.