Attraction in Congo
Lesio-Louna Gorilla Reserve
Set on the Bateke Plateau about 150 kilometres north of Brazzaville, this reserve was created in 1999 to rehabilitate and reintroduce orphaned western lowland gorillas. It is run jointly by The Aspinall Foundation and the Ministry of Forest Economy. The grassland and gallery forest make it the most accessible place in the country to see gorillas, and it works as a long day trip from the capital.
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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.