Sangha and Likouala Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Sangha and Likouala, Republic of the Congo. Plan your next adventure to Central Africa with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Sangha and Likouala

Sangha and Likouala are two regions located in the northern part of the Republic of the Congo, in Central Africa. These regions are known for their beautiful landscapes, unparalleled wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Travelers with interests in outdoor adventures, culture, and exploration will find plenty to explore in Sangha and Likouala. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in these two regions.

List of Places to Visit in Sangha and Likouala

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Brazzaville: The capital city of the Republic of Congo is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and cultural significance. Visit the National Museum of Congo and the Poto-Poto market to learn about the country’s history and culture.
  • Saint-Anne du Congo Basilica: A stunning, 19th-century Catholic Basilica built by the French.
  • Bateke Plateau National Park: A vast and unusual national park that offers pristine landscapes of savannah grasslands and rocky ridges with breathtaking views.

Natural Attractions of Sangha and Likouala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Odzala-Kokoua National Park: Immerse yourself in stunning natural landscapes teeming with wildlife on this captivating adventure. Explore the lush green forests, and unique savannah ecosystems and spot Lowland Gorillas, Hippopotamus, Wild Buffalo, and Forest Elephants.
  • Lefini Reserve: This nature reserve is a remarkable wilderness with superb landscapes and wildlife. Immerse yourself in the exotic habitat of different species of primates and more than 300 bird species. Visitors can camp overnight and spot wildlife amidst serene forests.
  • Likouala: A gateway to the extensive Congolese wilderness. This region is perfect for the outdoor traveler with hundreds of kilometers of streams and thick rainforest filled with wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sangha and Likouala

  • Likouala Aux Herbes: Hike the dense forest, and follow the stream that leads to a village with friendly locals. Have an opportunity to explore the locals’ way of life and culture while enjoying the peaceful greenery.
  • Bike Trip from Ouesso to Mokéko: This wanderlust trip is perfect for adventurous visitors riding through local farmsteads, forested areas, and savannah grasslands.

Best Things to Do in Sangha and Likouala: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Trips: Try a canoe trip paddling through the forest streams, offering scenic views of the forest canopy.
  • Night Walks: Uncover the beauty of nocturnal wildlife on a guided night walk for an unforgettable experience.
  • Gorilla Trekking: Go on a guided tour to witness Lowland Gorillas in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sangha and Likouala

Day 1: Arrival in Brazzaville Day 2: Visit Brazzaville National Museum and Poto-Poto market Day 3-4: Drive to Odzala-Kokoua National Park and Gorilla trekking Day 5: Lefini Forest Reserve and night walks Day 6: Likouala Aux Herbes for hiking and bike trips Day 7: Departures from Brazzaville Airport

Food and Drink Scene of Sangha and Likouala

Must-Try Dishes

  • Okra & Chicken: A traditional Congolese dish that’s both spicy and flavorful. Fresh okra slowly braised with onions, garlic, and tomato with bone-in chicken pieces.
  • Cassava: An upscale vegan delicacy made with cassava leaves, served with dal and rice.
  • Saka Saka: Another classic Congolese dish made of cassava leaves, simmered in palm oil, onions, and smoked fish.

Local Beverages

  • Chibuku: A unique African beer made from maize and sorghum.
  • Palm Wine: A local fermented beverage extracted from palm trees.

Where to Stay in Sangha and Likouala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Best Accommodations in Brazzaville

  • Radisson Blu M’Bamou Palace Hotel: A five-star hotel featuring the signature hospitable nature of African venues, in the modernized Brazzaville city.
  • Hotel Maya Maya: Marvelous hotel situated in the Gombe District of Brazzaville and an excellent base for those who want to explore the city.

Best Accommodations in Odzala-Kokoua National Park

  • Mboko Camp: Situated in a pristine area of the park, perfect for those who want to participate in gorilla trekking and other wilderness activities.
  • Lango Camp: Best for those who want to explore the far remote and exotic habitats of congo rainforests with multiple activities available.

What to Buy in Sangha and Likouala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Traditional Artwork

  • Congolese masks and wood carvings are ideal gifts for returning travelers.

Local Spices and Foods

  • Cassava flour, a staple in the Congolese diet, makes for a unique and memorable souvenir.
  • Palm oil is a common ingredient in traditional Congolese dishes and serves as a unique and practical souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Sangha and Likouala

  • Respect elders when meeting or passing them. It is considered culturally appropriate to mention “mbote ngai” (“good morning” in Lingala) when someone elder greets you.
  • Respect your hosts and elders by removing your shoes before entering a home or place of worship.
  • Kongolese tend to speak French or Lingala (dominant African language) or a combination of both.

Best Time to Visit Sangha and Likouala

The best time to visit Sangha and Likouala is during the dry season, from June to September. During these months, the weather is comfortable, and outdoor activities are more accessible. That said, the region is a year-round destination, and temperatures stay moderate throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sangha and Likouala

Do:

  • Respect local customs and laws
  • Be polite and courteous to locals
  • Try the local cuisine

Don’t:

  • Leave litter behind and always clean up after yourself.
  • Wear overly revealing clothing in public places.
  • Take photos of locals without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sangha and Likouala

The Congolese countryside is generally peaceful, but visitors should remain vigilant at all times. Traveling outside major towns from dusk to dawn is risky, and walking alone on the streets is not advisable in urban areas.

Health in Sangha and Likouala

Vaccines like Yellow Fever and Typhoid are recommended before traveling to Sangha and Likouala. Visitors should carry antimalarial medication with them to avoid contracting malaria, which is present in most parts of the country.

Getting to Sangha and Likouala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sangha and Likouala

  • Maya-Maya Airport (BZV) in Brazzaville is the primary international airport serving Sangha and Likouala.

Bus Stations Near Sangha and Likouala

  • The Gosier Bus Station in Brazzaville provides bus service to locations across the country.

Other Options

  • Taxi services are available across larger towns and cities in Congo.
  • Quality car rental services are available in Brazzaville city.

How to Get Around in Sangha and Likouala

Public buses and taxis operate in Sangha and Likouala. Visitors can rent cars from car rental companies to commute between places.

Where to Go Next from Sangha and Likouala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kouilou

  • Take a trip to the port city known as Pointe-Noire in Congo’s coastal district of Kouilou. The city is buzzing with action, and the oil industry has helped generate economic growth, making it a modernized location where travelers can enjoy water-related activities like swimming and boat touring.

Conclusion

Sangha and Likouala are hidden gems in Central Africa that offer an unforgettable travel experience for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike. From pristine reserves to fascinating wildlife, and exotic cultures, these regions are destinations that you shouldn’t miss. We hope that this travel guide helps you plan your trip to Sangha and Likouala and makes your journey more memorable.