Ultimate Guide to visiting Congo : Any traveler to or considering a trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo should have and be aware of these crucial informational items. After Algeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the largest nation in Africa. The Central African nation of the Congo is bordered by nine nations, including Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. There is a lot of untapped potential for tourism in this enormous nation.
Because it is home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas that are only found in the Virunga Massif Area and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, as well as having the largest lava lake in the world on Mount Nyiragongo the Democratic republic of Congo is one of the best safari destination in Africa. Virunga National Park, one of Africa’s oldest national parks, is the most popular tourist destination in the nation. The following are the best traveling tips and advice for those planning and considering a Congo Safari Tour:
Money: The currency used in Congo
The Republic of the Congo’s national currency is the Central African CFA franc (CDF) (along with five other central African countries). Each centime is broken into 100 smaller units.
A cash economy predominates in the Congo. However, cash is typically the preferred means of payment throughout the nation. A few hotels in Brazzaville and Pointe Noire accept major credit cards. There are a few ATMs in Pointe Noire and a couple in Brazzaville that take foreign cards. At the bigger banks, you can exchange foreign currency.
Health
In all areas of the Congo, a prophylactic with Lariam, Malarone, or Doxycycline is advised due to the prevalence of malaria. Every person over the age of one who travels to the Congo must have a yellow fever vaccination.
People who intend to spend a lot of time outside and who are vulnerable to animal bites should think about getting a rabies shot. Visitors to the Congo should be careful not to engage in unprotected sex because HIV/Aids is a risk there. All visitors to the country are advised to refrain from consuming meat produced from unknown animals since the Ebola virus breakout in recent years, as it is regarded to be the cause of the illness.
The Congo has very few medical facilities, especially in rural areas. Travelers should bring their own supplies of any necessary prescriptions in their original packaging, along with a dated and signed note from a doctor explaining the nature of the medication and why it is necessary, as many pharmaceuticals are in short supply.
Visitors should make sure they have full travel insurance, as any significant injury or illness is likely to require medical evacuation, and they should avoid drinking tap water unless it has been filtered, chemically treated, or boiled, Ultimate Guide to visiting Congo.
Safety
Since the 2003 peace agreement, there haven’t been many significant conflicts in the Republic of the Congo. However, the majority of travel agencies, including the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the US Department of State, advise against visiting specific parts of the nation.
Brazzaville saw violent conflicts in 2016, so visitors are recommended to keep a high level of security awareness, avoid traveling at night, and steer clear of all political protests. The Likouala province, which has been overrun by refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, should be completely avoided by tourists. Traveling to the Pool region, south of Brazzaville, should only be done if absolutely necessary.
On the road between Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, which has a history of roadblocks and robbery, caution should be exercised. Although it is still advisable to exercise caution, the train journey between these two cities is typically safer. Visitors should keep up-to-date on any disturbances or unrest both within the nation and in the neighboring DRC, because violence might occasionally flow over the border.
In the Republic of Congo, there have been instances of violent crime against visitors, in addition to frequent petty crime. Particularly close to ports, outside of well-known restaurants and bars, and on the beaches, there is a chance for vehicle break-ins and muggings, which should be absolutely avoided at night. Travelers should remain vigilant and take all reasonable safety measures.
Local customs
In the Congo, there are many different traditions and civilizations, and each community has its own set of values. Although the Congolese take considerable interest in their looks, casual attire is acceptable. An extremely casual appearance may be frowned upon. It is not permitted to take pictures of political, military, or financial structures.
Language and Communications
Many hotels and eateries in Brazzaville, Pointe Noire, and other areas have free Wi-Fi. The area codes for Brazzaville and Pointe Noire are 28 and 29, respectively, whereas the international access code for the Republic of the Congo is 242, Congo Safaris Tours.
Passport and Visa
Visitors need to show they have the money to support their stay, and they also need a visa, a letter of invitation, or a hotel reservation. Only travelers in possession of a letter (Visa Volant) issued by the Ministry of Interior and Security are eligible to receive a visa upon arrival. Visitors who lack visas issued by their country of residence risk having their entrance requests rejected. Only situations in which there isn’t a Congo embassy will accept visas issued by another nation in the nation where you live. It is strongly advised that your passport be valid at least six months after the date that you plan to depart for your trip. Official immigration sources and immigration officials frequently use different rules, Ultimate Guide to visiting Congo.
Entry requirements
To enter the Republic of the Congo, US residents need a passport that is currently valid as well as a visa.
To enter the Republic of the Congo, British nationals need a passport that is currently valid as well as a visa.
To enter the Republic of the Congo, Canadian citizen need both a valid passport and a visa, Ultimate Guide to visiting Congo.
To enter the Republic of the Congo, Australian nationals need a passport that is currently valid as well as a visa.
A valid passport and a visa are required for entry into the Republic of the Congo for citizens of South Africa.
A valid passport and a visa are required for entry into the Republic of the Congo for Irish nationals.
A valid passport and a visa are required for entry into the Republic of the Congo for citizens of New Zealand.
What to Pack?
You should bring a lot of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that is suitable in a warm, humid atmosphere, as well as insect repellent and sun protection. You will also require rain gear, which is advised even outside of Congo’s two rainy seasons, as well as a thermal fleece for chilly nights. The entire nation is at risk for malaria, so precautions are strongly urged. For advice on what medications to carry, speak with a medical expert.
Pack pants, long-sleeve shirts, gaiters or long socks to wear over your pants, appropriate hiking boots, and gorilla trekking gear if you choose to do so.
Flights and Getting Around
In addition to Air France flights from Paris, the Maya-Maya International Airport in Brazzaville, the capital of Congo, is serviced by a number of African airlines. Regular flights to Nairobi enable hassle-free international connections as well as quick additions to beach vacations and East African safaris.
Once in Brazzaville, there is little reason to wait because charter flights will take you to your safari lodging. While local drives and road transfers to lodges are done in 4X4 cars, the majority of game viewing activities are done on foot or by boat.
