Congolese Plateau Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and adventure of Congolese Plateau in Central Africa with our detailed travel guide. Get insider tips for places to visit, activities to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Congolese Plateau

Located in the Republic of the Congo, in Central Africa, Congolese Plateau is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. This vast expanse of plateau is characterized by lush forests, rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls. The region is also home to a rich cultural heritage and provides visitors with a glimpse into local life and traditions. This guide provides you with an in-depth overview of the top places to visit, activities to do, and insider tips for a memorable vacation in Congolese Plateau.

List of Places to Visit in Congolese Plateau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial

Visit this memorial to learn about the life and accomplishments of Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, the Italian-born explorer who founded the city of Brazzaville in 1880.

Basilique Sainte-Anne

This stunning basilica is located in Brazzaville and features exquisite stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and unique architectural features.

Livingstone Falls

Explore this series of rapids and waterfalls on the Congo River that were named in honor of famous explorer David Livingstone. The falls offer incredible views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Natural Attractions of Congolese Plateau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Odzala-Kokoua National Park

Odzala-Kokoua is home to vast rainforests, savannahs, and swamps that are teeming with wildlife, including gorillas, elephants, and chimpanzees. Take a guided tour to explore this unique ecosystem and see its diverse flora and fauna up close.

Lesio-Louna Natural Reserve

Located just 50 kilometers from Brazzaville, this reserve protects several endangered species, including lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and mandrills. You can take guided tours to learn more about the wildlife in the area.

Dzanga-Sangha Reserve

Located near the border with Cameroon, this reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last remaining habitats for western lowland gorillas. Visitors can take part in gorilla trekking expeditions, go on guided walks, and enjoy bird watching and other activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Congolese Plateau

Mayombe Forest Reserve

The Mayombe Forest Reserve has several fantastic hiking trails that will take you through breathtaking landscapes and allow you to see a variety of plants and wildlife.

Brazzaville - Kinkala

This biking route is perfect for adventure lovers and takes you through stunning landscapes and small villages, providing you with a unique glimpse into local life and culture.

Best Things to Do in Congolese Plateau: Activities and Tours

Gorilla Trekking

Trekking to see gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you cannot miss. Odzala-Kokoua National Park and Dzanga-Sangha Reserve are two of the top destinations for gorilla trekking in Congolese Plateau.

Canoeing/Kayaking

Explore the Congo River or the Loémé River in a canoe or kayak, and experience the beauty of the region from a unique perspective.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts can try their hand at catching local fish species such as tilapia, catfish, and African carp. Lake Inongo and various rivers and streams are popular fishing spots in Congolese Plateau.

Week-Long Itinerary for Congolese Plateau

Day 1-2: Brazzaville

Explore the capital city of Brazzaville and visit its cultural attractions such as the Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial and Basilique Sainte-Anne.

Day 3-5: Odzala-Kokoua National Park

Spend the next few days exploring the vast rainforest and savannahs of Odzala-Kokoua National Park. Take part in gorilla trekking expeditions, guided walks, and wildlife watching tours.

Day 6-7: Lesio-Louna Natural Reserve

Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Lesio-Louna Natural Reserve, where you can see a variety of endangered species, including lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and mandrills.

Food and Drink Scene of Congolese Plateau

Must-Try Dishes

Poulet Moambe

A classic Congolese dish made with chicken, cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce made from ground cassava leaves and spices.

Saka-Saka

Another popular dish made from cassava leaves, saka-saka is often served as a side dish or eaten as a main dish with meat or fish.

Fufu

Fufu is a staple food across Central Africa and is made by pounding cassava or yam into a starchy paste that is then served alongside soup or stew.

Local Beverages

Palm Wine

Made from the sap of palm trees, palm wine is a popular alcoholic beverage in Congolese Plateau. It has a sweet, slightly sour taste and is often consumed during celebrations and gatherings.

Ginger Beer

A non-alcoholic beverage made from fresh ginger, sugar, and water, ginger beer is a refreshing and traditional drink in the region.

Where to Stay in Congolese Plateau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Radisson Blu M’Bamou Palace Hotel

Located in the heart of Brazzaville, this modern hotel features spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, gym facilities, and stunning views of the city.

Lodge de la Sangha

This eco-friendly lodge is located in Dzanga-Sangha Reserve and offers comfortable accommodations, excellent meals, and various tours and activities.

Mboko Camp

Mboko Camp is located in Odzala-Kokoua National Park and offers luxurious tented accommodations, a swimming pool, and fantastic safari experiences.

What to Buy in Congolese Plateau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

African Art

Congolese Plateau is renowned for its stunning African art, particularly wood carvings, masks, and pottery.

Ebony Carvings

The region is famously renowned for its ebony wood, and you can buy beautiful carved wooden statues, bowls, and other items made from this unique material.

Local Culture and Customs of Congolese Plateau

The people of Congolese Plateau are warm and friendly and known for their unique culture and traditions. Respect for elders and authority is an essential part of the local culture, and visitors are expected to be polite and courteous at all times.

Best Time to Visit Congolese Plateau

The best time to visit Congolese Plateau is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife watching.

Do’s and Don’ts of Congolese Plateau

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress conservatively, particularly in rural areas.
  • Carry a valid ID and passport at all times.
  • Learn a few basic French phrases.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people or places without asking for permission first.
  • Touch or disturb wildlife in any way.
  • Use or possess drugs of any kind.
  • Get involved in political discussions or protests.

Safety and Health

Safety in Congolese Plateau

Congolese Plateau can be a safe place to visit if you take the necessary precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid areas that are known to be unsafe, and be cautious when traveling alone or at night.

Health in Congolese Plateau

Visitors to Congolese Plateau should ensure they have updated vaccinations for diseases such as yellow fever and malaria, which are prevalent in the area. Drink only bottled water, avoid consuming street food, and take precautions against insect bites.

Getting to Congolese Plateau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Congolese Plateau

Maya-Maya Airport in Brazzaville is the primary international airport in the region and is served by various airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Air France.

Bus Stations Near Congolese Plateau

Brazzaville has several bus stations, including Gare Routiere de Brazzaville, which provides daily services to many destinations in the country.

Other Options

Other options for getting to Congolese Plateau include hiring a private driver or using the local taxi services, which are typically inexpensive.

How to Get Around in Congolese Plateau

Local minibusses and taxis are the most common modes of transportation in Congolese Plateau. Private car hires are also available, although it’s essential to negotiate prices upfront. Biking and walking are excellent options in urban areas.

Where to Go Next from Congolese Plateau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Several exciting destinations are easily accessible from Congolese Plateau, including:

  • Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, located across the Congo River
  • Kinkala, a small town with stunning outdoor attractions and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Gabon, accessible by road or plane, is home to stunning national parks with gorillas and other wildlife.

Conclusion

This travel guide provides an extensive overview of the top places to visit, activities to do, and insider tips for a memorable vacation in Congolese Plateau. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, Congolese Plateau is a unique and unforgettable destination that should be on every adventurous traveler’s list. Explore the beauty and diversity of this incredible region and create lasting memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.



    Lesio Louna Gorilla Reserve