Republic of Congo

Local Time

GMT +1

Currency

Local currency is the Central Africa Franc which can only be obtained in-country. Take Euros or US dollars in cash. Credit/Debit Cards (Visa and Master Card) are accepted at the hotels that we use in Brazzaville. There are very few ATMs/ cash machines.

Tipping

We recommend US$10- 15 per person per day in the tipping boxes at the camps for staff. Gorilla trackers are tipped separately (we recommend US$10 per tracker; there is 1 tracker on each gorilla trek).

Language

The official and national language is French. English is spoken in the hotels we recommend.

Food

Manioc (cassava) accompanies many dishes – one form is saka saka (cassava with a peanut paste). Spices are liberally used. In restaurants, diners can expect items such as fish and chips; chicken and pizza. Breakfasts are of French continental style, the ‘norm’ including baguettes and coffee. Ngok is the local beer.

Water: drink only bottled water.

Electricity            

220/230 volts South African plugs and European adaptors. 

Shopping            

You will be taken shopping during your city tour in Brazzaville, where your guide can take you to interesting markets. (Limited shopping opportunities).  

Wildlife viewing

In the dense, equatorial rainforest this can be challenging. It is easier in the open salt licks or ‘bai’ areas.  Wild animal sightings can never be guaranteed.

It is vital to note that Republic of the Congo should be viewed as an ‘experience’ as a whole, and not focused on gorillas.  You need to be able to walk on average 4 – 5 hours per day but time taken to reach gorillas is entirely unpredictable as they are wild animals and move about. (It can take a few hours to reach them).

Camp will provide you with face/head nets to protect against sweat-bees. (Pack a round hat rather than a cap).

If you have heavy camera gear, the services of a porter can be enlisted (extra charge, US$ 5 per day). You will be alternating footwear between hiking boots and the sandles as terrain is varied. (Be prepared to get wet).