Immerse yourself in the heart of the Congo Basin rainforest – a biological hotspot of global importance and the world’s second biggest rainforest, surpassed only by the Amazon. Within these dense rainforests, lowland gorillas peacefully reside while the forest bais open up sightings of forest elephants. The Congo offers something unique for even the most frequent Africa-bound traveller. Republic of the Congo is a former French colony on the western bank of the Congo River known for its breadth of biodiversity and natural richness, which includes the largest area of primary rainforest in Africa. The Congo isn’t a well trodden safari destination with a well established tourist infrastructure. Long and uncomfortable journeys by planes, 4x4s and pirogues make this an experience not easily forgotten, but one that rewards the adventurous traveller.
Not to be confused with the Democratic Republic of Congo, three little-visited national parks hide half the world’s lowland gorillas, while forest elephant, forest adapted hyenas, bongos, and diverse birdlife can be seen amidst the tapestry of pristine rainforests, savannahs, rivers and bais. Away from these untravelled and untouched pockets of wilderness, the thriving capital Brazzaville is a walkable and welcoming city with some great places to eat.
We originally started back in 2005 as World Primate Safaris. Our CEO and Founder Will Bolsover spent many years in the jungles of Central and East Africa, working in the gorilla parks of Uganda and Rwanda, the Eastern Lowland Gorilla and Mountain Gorilla parks of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and tracking the chimpanzees of Tanzania in Mahale and Gombe. He was the first person to lead gorilla treks in Gabon working with Emmanuel de Merode who now runs Virunga National Park in DRC.
As well as our long history working in the region, we were invited to be one of only four official founding tourism partners worldwide for African Parks. In 2010, African Parks entered into a 25-year-long agreement with the Republic of the Congo’s Ministry of Forest Economy, Sustainable Development and Environment to protect Odzala-Kokoua National Park which is the primary destination for tourism in the region. It is fair to say we have more experience, expertise and on the ground contacts than any other tour operator when it comes to the Congo.
Typically, expect to budget around $13500 per person for a 10-day safari in the Congo. This will generally include charter flights to and from Brazzaville, two gorilla trekking permits and three camps in different locations. For a shorter 6-day experience staying at one camp expect to budget $10000 per person. A true wilderness experience, you will be staying in rustic but comfortable camps. Our safaris here are typically created on a bespoke basis for clients.
The safari of choice for primate enthusiasts, this epic journey will give you the chance to track both mountain gorillas and western lowland gorillas on six separate trekking excursions (with the possibility of a seventh trek added in for good measure).
From 29000 per person
Located in the north-west region of the Republic of the Congo, discover two unique camps inside the pristine Odzala-Kokoua National Park, and a third on a private concession bordering the national park. This is a lowland rainforest characterised by a network of bais, rivers, marshes and swamps. This vast and truly wild region, with its wide range of landscapes and habitat, is home to an incredible diversity of life. Forest elephant, leopard, bongo, forest buffalo, giant forest hog and hippo live alongside the greatest density of western lowland gorilla in Africa.
From 15500 per person
Located in the north-west region of the Republic of the Congo, discover two unique camps inside the pristine Odzala-Kokoua National Park, and a third on a private concession bordering the national park. This is a lowland rainforest characterised by a network of bais, rivers, marshes and swamps. This vast and truly wild region, with its wide range of landscapes and habitat, is home to an incredible diversity of life. Forest elephant, leopard, bongo, forest buffalo, giant forest hog and hippo live alongside the greatest density of western lowland gorilla in Africa.
From 22000 per person
For most, a visit to the Congo is about exploring a seldom visited pocket of Africa in search of the unique wildlife encounters that the region offers.
There are four main camps that we use in the Congo. In Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Lango Camp offers incredible views of the Lango Bai which attracts flocks of Green Pigeons and African Grey Parrots as well as Forest Buffalo and Forest Elephants. Another of our favourites is Naga Camp in the Ndzehi Concession, sitting amongst towering trees and open Marantaceae forest, is the home of the Western Lowland Gorilla research team. Read more about where to stay in the Congo.
The Republic of Congo has an equatorial climate with high humidity levels year round. The best time to visit will depend on the region you wish to go to, but if your main focus is tracking gorillas in Odzala National Park it is best to travel during the drier periods, between June and September, or December to February. Read more about when to go.
A journey through the Congo & CAR. NWS CEO Will Bolsover returns to the Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic.
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Strong Roots is not just the name of Dominique Bikaba’s NGO, which he founded in 2009 and whose work earned him a Whitley Award (also known as the "Green Oscars" of the conservation world) in 2018. Born in Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, it is to this region – his homeland – that Dominique has dedicated his life’s work.
Read more about Dominique
Jean Labuschagne is the Special Projects Manager at African Parks and is based in Garamba National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. African Parks has had some very high conservation success rates, particularly in Zakouma National Park, Chad. After suffering from conflict and severe poaching, wildlife populations in Chad declined dramatically, but with the help of African Parks numbers are now consistently growing, and the wildlife within the grounds is protected from poachers.
Read more about Jean
Journalist Tom Downey joins two experts on a quest to meet these great apes, and understand the ongoing research into one of humanity’s closest cousins.
Read moreThis is my third trip with NWS, their knowledge is unrivalled. I knew the Republic of Congo had western lowland gorillas, but hadn't considered booking a trip there until David recommended it. It was clear from the outset that David had travelled there numerous times and was truly passionate about this country. This passion and enthusiasm resulted in me booking this trip, which was a once in a lifetime experience. I have been on numerous safaris but none of them compare to this! You can tell that the animals are not used to seeing tourists all the time, which made this trip all the more unique. The staff at the lodges could not do more to make sure we enjoyed ourselves, and our guide Kerri, made sure we saw as much as possible! I can't wait to go back!
Our Destination Specialist, David was great. He was knowledgeable, helpful, affable, and prompt to respond. He is a pleasure to work with. The Odzala camps were terrific, and the food was the best we’ve had on any of our travels – in terms of quality, preparation, presentation, and the variety of the menu. We were blown away! The guiding was also superb. The entire experience was extremely well conceived and greatly exceeded our expectations. And, of course, your app is absolutely fantastic. Great client service, great guidance throughout the planning and travel stages, and great trip construction.
The trip was wonderful and ran smoothly. Everyone did a great job. NWS are very different and offer some exotic locales.
The Republic of Congo offers diverse safari experiences, including Odzala-Kokoua and Nouabalé-Ndoki National Parks, where travellers can observe forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The country's rainforests, savannas, and wetlands provide unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural encounters, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a range of safari adventures.
Gorilla permits for gorilla trekking in the Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) are notably affordable, costing only $400 each. These permits are essential for gaining access to experience the incredible opportunity of gorilla trekking in the country. This affordability sets Congo's gorilla permits apart from other popular gorilla trekking destinations like Rwanda and Uganda, where the permits are considerably more expensive at $1500 and $600, respectively. This cost difference makes Congo an attractive option for travellers seeking a more budget-friendly yet equally rewarding gorilla trekking experience.
Absolutely, you can explore the captivating rainforests of the Republic of Congo. With remarkable destinations like Odzala-Kokoua National Park and Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, you have the chance to venture into pristine rainforest landscapes, encounter diverse wildlife including primates and birds, and experience the enchanting beauty of one of the world's most vital ecosystems. Guided tours and responsible travel practices will help you navigate and appreciate these remarkable rainforest environments while contributing to conservation efforts.
The Republic of Congo is generally considered stable and safe for travellers compared to some neighbouring countries. Petty crime can occur, particularly in urban areas, so travellers should take standard safety measures such as securing belongings. Cultural sensitivity, adherence to local customs, and careful consideration of transportation options are recommended for a safe and respectful travel experience.
Crocodiles can indeed be found in certain parts of the rainforests of the Republic of Congo. While rainforests are not typically their primary habitat, some rivers, water bodies, and wetland areas within or near the rainforest regions may provide suitable habitats for crocodiles. These crocodile populations are part of the broader biodiversity that thrives in the diverse ecosystems of the Congo rainforest. However, encountering crocodiles in the rainforest is not as common as in other types of habitats, such as rivers and marshes, where crocodiles are more prevalent. When exploring rainforest areas, it's important to follow safety guidelines and local advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Explore the wildlife of the Republic of Congo.
In the Republic of Congo there are more than 60 languages spoken. The country is linguistically diverse, with a variety of indigenous languages reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of its ethnic groups and communities. While French serves as the official language and is used in government, education, and media, many local languages are spoken among different ethnic groups across various regions of the country. Some of the major indigenous languages include Lingala, Kikongo, Mboshi, Teke, and Vili, among others. This linguistic diversity reflects the country's vibrant cultural heritage.
