Not to be confused with the DRC to the east, The Republic of Congo is a stable, former French colony located in central Africa. Also known as Congo-Brazzaville, the interior of the country contains the second largest expanse of tropical rainforest in Africa. It is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna including three habituated groups of Western lowland gorillas, which can be found in a five square mile area in the Odzala National Park.
The capital, Brazzaville is located on the Congo River, in the south of the country and the international airport here is the main entry point for visitors. From the UK, regular flights are operated to Brazzaville by Ethiopian Airlines, Air France and Kenya Airways.
Our Congo holidays focus on the fascinating wildlife that can be found in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park. To reach the national park, visitors travel by private charter from Brazzaville to M'boko Airstrip, located close to Lango Camp.
The 3 camps we use on our Congo holidays are extremely comfortable and sensitively designed using local, sustainable materials. Lango Camp is located in the west of Odzala-Kokoua National Park on the edge of the savannah, whilst Ngaga Camp is set deep within the rainforest. The third, Mboko Camp, is well located to complete what is an unforgettable and well-planned circuit.
Reaching the camps is part of the (light) adventure - please see our sample itinerary for detailed information on how this exciting itinerary is best done.
Odzala's wildlife includes 11 diurnal primate species. While the Lowland gorillas are without doubt the star attraction, other noteworthy and sought-after wildlife includes Forest elephant (still fairly shy), Forest buffalo (very common) and various antelopes including the unmistakeable Bongo, as well as Black-fronted duiker. In additional there are approximately 430 bird species, including specials such Hartlaub's duck, Black bee-eater and also, impressive flocks of African grey parrots and African green pigeon.
The camps offer night drives to look for some of the more reclusive animals such as spotted hyena, African golden cat and leopard.