20140125-DSC_8083 Photo by jbdodane via Flickr Creative Commons

Virtually closed to outsiders for years, Congo-Brazzaville is home to undisturbed natural attractions. Its crown jewel, Odzala National Park, holds some of the most guarded wildlife secrets in the world. It is also dotted with impressive historic landmarks and remnants of days past, especially in the capital, where beautiful mosques and basilicas stand side by side. The ancient village of M’Be is also worth a wander, as well as the coastal paradise of Pointe Noire. To make your holiday safe and convenient, hire a local guide, especially when embarking on wilderness expeditions.

Odzala National Park

About 80 percent of the world’s chimpanzee population is found in Congo, so primate safaris are very popular. The sprawling Odzala National Park is a true ecotourism paradise offering an outstanding mix of flora and fauna. Within the beautifully painted ancient forest that dates back to 1935, there are numerous intertwining walking and hiking trails that lead to beautiful savannahs and wildlife-filled areas where the rarest of species can be spotted, including lowland gorillas, elephants, monkeys, spotted hyenas, bongos, lions, buffalos, leopards, and many other mammal and birds. Address: central, north Congo Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Ouesso District

There are many challenging hiking paths in the unspoiled and underdeveloped Ouesso District. Trekking in this part of the Congo requires stamina and experience, but rewards the brave with sightings of the biggest population of lowland gorillas. Address: Sangha region, Congo Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Pointe Noire

Pointe Noire is the country’s coastal paradise. The best beaches are found within this region, particularly on Côte Sauvage and Pointe Noire Beach itself. You can enjoy all kinds of water sports, from surfcasting to windsurfing, deep-sea fishing and even hang gliding. Pointe Noire is also popular for its lively evening market and historic villages, such as Loango and Diosso. Loango was the main port used in the slave trade, while Diosso is home to magnificent cliffs naturally formed by the wind and the sea, collectively known as the Gorges of Diosso. Address: Pointe Noire Department, Congo Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Brazzaville

Beyond the rundown infrastructure caused by the civil war in 1997, Brazzaville remains one of the most beautiful places in Congo. The old French capital has retained its distinct flair and the glory of its earliest buildings, including the Basilique Sainte-Anne, Palais du Peuple (presidential palace), Cathédrale Sacré-Coeur, and the Temple Mosques. There is always something happening in the lively markets, particularly in Moungali and Oluendze. Those who want a glimpse of the cultural and historical treasures can see the exhibits in the National Museum. The city is likewise home to the up and coming golf resort, Cite du Djoue. Address: Congo River, Congo Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Congo Rapids

A haven for the adventurous, the Congo rapids is one of the most exciting destinations for whitewater rafting and waterskiing in the country. Koullou and the popular Congo River offer plenty of water sports facilities, while Lac Bleu is perfect for laid back fishing trips. Address: north of Brazzaville, Congo Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Loufoulakari Falls

Loufoulakari Falls is a spectacular drop at the confluence of the Congo and Loufoulakari rivers. It is southwest of the capital and offers one of the most picturesque views in the country. Address: southwest of Brazzaville, Congo Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Linzolo

Linzolo is a good side trip after visiting Brazzaville. It is the site of the first and the oldest Catholic Church in the country, built in the early 1880’s. The town also has a particularly good market. Address: Cataractes plateau, Congo Phone: n/a Website: n/a

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