Rich with rare wildlife species, untouched rainforests and incredible biodiversity, few locations on earth can match the Republic of Congo’s treasure trove of natural wonders.
Home to the Congo Basin – one of the most important wilderness areas left on the planet – and half of the world’s western lowland gorilla population that resides in the mist-enshrouded rainforest, this is one destination that can be truly called wild. A critical habitat for endangered species, the Congo Basin spans six countries and is the largest carbon sink in the world. If exclusive, rare experiences far from the beaten-track appeal, then the Republic of Congo is for you.
The central African country is also known as Congo-Brazzaville (not to be confused with the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo) and sits astride the equator in west-central Africa, bordered to the east by the Congo River. Its capital city, Brazzaville, lies across the Congo River from Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This peaceful country is increasingly becoming renowned as one of the finest ecotourism destinations on the continent which is vital given its significant contribution to the world climate.
"The remote Odzala National Park is one of the best places to track western lowland gorillas."
In the Republic of Congo, it’s the mighty western lowland gorillas that travellers trek to glimpse. Congo safaris take you off the beaten track, deep into steamy primary forests where these extraordinary primates reside. The remote Odzala National Park is one of the best places to track western lowland gorillas – trek with local Mbeti guides and encounter these sociable creatures alongside a wealth of other wildlife including forest buffalo and elephants. You may catch a glimpse of the grey-cheeked mangabey or mostly nocturnal bongo during these exhilarating and rare encounters with wildlife. Other sightings include many species of monkeys – Guereza colobus, Allen’s swamp, De Brazza and Putty-nosed monkeys to name a few.
The habitats at Odzala are as impressive as they are varied – from primary forest and bais (natural rainforest openings)to savannah with wide open rivers – perfect for the ultimate animal and bird-watching experience. More than 400 species of birds and 100 different animal species can be seen in this region where you can opt to walk, kayak or wade through forests and swamps on thrilling game and nature drives. Other locations in Congo where lowland gorillas are found include the remote wilderness of Nouabale-Ndoki National Park and the freshwater swamp forest of Mbeli Bai. It’s well worth visiting some of the remote villages scattered around the edge of Odzala National Park where you will be warmly welcomed by Bantu and Pygmy locals during authentic cultural exchanges. This is truly African in the raw: visit the villages and markets, observe the cassava and coffee fields and take a boat trip along the Lekoli River.
Whatever you are looking to experience during your time in the Congo, we have decades of experience finding the finest and most exclusive experiences for you to enjoy whilst exploring this magnificent country. Be aware that gorilla trekking in the Congo can be more adventurous than that experienced in Rwanda – the trekking can be harder, and the sightings potentially lower – however, the rewards for those who traverse these wild lands are immense. This is exploring in the truest sense of the word.
