CONGO

CONGO

If you are a keen Africa go-er and seriously like to go off the beaten track, the dark heart of AFrica is yours to discover. Not to mistake it over its bigger brother Congo Kinshasa. Congo Brazaville is peaceful, beatutiful and exciting. The Congo, specifically the 13 000 km² of undisturbed primary rainforest that is Odzala-Kokoua National Park, is home to a significant population of western lowland gorillas, including family groups that have been habituated to human presence. Gorilla trekking in Congo is unique in that departing from camp on foot, you can be with a family within the hour. There is also the opportunity to go gorilla trekking for three consecutive days, whereas in other countries permits are issued for one day only, and occasionally two. This option allows you to spend more time experiencing various family groups, and comparing the intriguing differences in personality and dynamics. In addition to gorilla trekking, the abundance of the ‘Heart of Africa’ offers much to be explored. Go swimming in crystal-clear rivers, and kayak and boat along waterways, spotting buffalo, hippo and perhaps even rare bongo – Africa’s second largest antelope. Expert guides will lead you along forest paths clouded with dazzling butterflies; and help identify the calls of monkeys and tropical birds. Marshy forest clearings offer great game viewing opportunities as animals come to obtain essential minerals from the soil, especially elephant, buffalo and giant forest hog.
The capital of Brazzaville is the ‘Little Paris of Africa’ and has an intriguing French culture, as well as lively fabric markets and colourful architecture. The city is home to very friendly and welcoming people, who pride themselves on keeping their city in pristine condition.

WHEN TO GO TO CONGO

Weather is everything in knowing when to go to the Congo. An equatorial setting means the Congo’s temperatures – and humidity levels – are high more or less all year: the average daytime temperature is 24°C (75°F) with nights recording between 16°C (61°F) and 21°C (70°F). Annual rainfall ranges from 1100mm to 2000mm and the year is divided into four seasons: a long rainy season from October to December; a short dry season from January to February; a short rainy season from March to April; and a long dry season from May to September.
The principal travel destination in the Republic of Congo is the Odzala National Park, which experiences around 1500mm of rain a year: avoid the wettest months by travelling to Odzala between May and the end of December.