Congo — Travel Tips
Social Conventions
Normal courtesies should be observed when visiting people’s homes. Gifts are acceptable as a token of thanks, especially if invited for a meal. Dress should be casual, and informal wear is acceptable in most places. Mini-skirts and shorts should not be worn in most public places. Artistic carving, both traditional and modern dance, as well as folk songs, play an important part in Congolese culture, which is strongly based on tradition. Do not smoke or drink alcohol in public places during Ramadan.
Photography: It is forbidden to photograph public buildings.
International Travel
Getting There By Air
Aero Benin, Air France, Air Service Gabon and Cameroon Airlines operate international services to Congo (Rep).
Departure Tax
XAF500.
Main Airports
Brazzaville (BZV) (Maya Maya) is 4km (2 miles) northwest of the city. To/from the airport: Buses and taxis are available to the city. Facilities: A restaurant and car hire.
Pointe-Noire (PNR) is 5.5km (3.5 miles) from the city. To/from the airport: Taxis are available to the city.
Getting There By Water
Cargo ships dock at Pointe-Noire. An hourly car ferry operates between Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Brazzaville across the Congo River (journey time – 20 minutes). Ferries operate to and from the Central African Republic on the Ubangi.
Getting There By Road
There is a road connection from Lambaréné in Gabon to Loubomo and Brazzaville. The road from Cameroon is usable only during the dry season. There is a good road between Pointe-Noire and Cabinda (Angola). Entry can also be made via the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Documentation: A carnet de passage en douane is needed to cross land borders between Congo and the neighboring countries. Further information can be obtained from national motoring organizations.
Duty Free
Overview
The following items may be imported into Congo by visitors over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty:
• 200 cigarettes or one box of cigars or tobacco (women are permitted to import cigarettes only).
• One bottle of spirits and one bottle of wine.
• A reasonable quantity of perfume in opened bottles.
Note: If importing expensive items such as watches and cameras, it is advisable to present the receipt.
Internal Travel
Getting Around By Air
The national airline, Lina Congo (GC), operates regular services from Brazzaville to Pointe-Noire, with stops in Loubomo and Ouesso. Private charters are available.
Getting Around By Water
Inland steamers ply from Brazzaville up the Congo and Ubangi. Rivers are vital to internal transport.
Getting Around By Rail
Congo-Océan railway company operates services between Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire (journey time – up to 3 days). Known as the ‘Peace Train’, this service endured a long suspension due to civil war, and still incurs occasional disruptions. Services between Mbinda and Pointe-Noire are also due to resume soon. Advance booking is recommended.
Getting Around By Road
Traffic drives on the right. Roads are mostly earth tracks, sandy in dry season and impassable in the wet, suitable for 4-wheel drive vehicles only. There are around 1,200km (750 miles) of paved roads. Poorly marked army checkpoints, often manned by undisciplined soldiers, exist throughout the country. Travel at night on unfamiliar roads can be dangerous and should be avoided.
Car hire: There are several car hire firms represented in Brazzaville, lists of which can be obtained from main hotels.
Documentation: An International Driving Permit is required.
Getting Around Towns and Cities
Brazzaville has a minibus and taxi service. Taxis are also available in Pointe-Noire and Loubomo. Taxi fares have a flat rate and fares should be agreed beforehand.
