Destination:
Congo

Overview

Not to be confused with its embattled neighbour to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo offers the same conditions, an equally unadulterated wilderness but less political instability. The northern rainforests are virtually uninhabited, or rather, are uninhabitable because of the dense undergrowth and vast swampland. A congested 85% of the population reside in and between the capital of Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, only 332 miles (534 km) apart. While the Republic does not have a developed tourist industry having just emerged from six years of civil war, there is still plenty to do. The Odzala National Park is one of the largest in Africa and revered for its conservation of forest elephants and western gorillas. Brazzaville is located right on the banks of the Congo River and a popular launch point for white water rafting expeditions over the river's exciting rapids. Down the rail line, to the coastal town of Pointe Noire, one can savour the warm, if somewhat narrow, beach-line of the Atlantic Ocean.

Basics

Customs
There are a variety of customs and culture in the Congo as each community may have their own traditions. Casual clothing is acceptable, however keep in mind that the Congolese take great pride in their appearance, and an overly casual appearance may be frowned on. Photographing military, government, and banking buildings is prohibited.

Duty Free
Visitors to Congo do not need to pay import tax on one bottle of spirits and one bottle of wine and an amount of perfume reasonable for personal use. Men may import up to 200 cigarettes/50 cigars/227g of tobacco, while women may only bring cigarettes. Cameras may be temporarily imported by tourists, however radios, audio equipment and gifts are subject to import tax.

Currency

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

Health

Health Overview

Visa

Americans


UK nationals


Canadians


Australians


South Africans


Irish nationals


New Zealanders

Passport/Visa Note

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Contacts

Congo Tourism

Foreign Embassies in Congo

Congo Embassies

Regions and Cities