Overview
Embark on a thrilling 14-day adventure through the heart of Africa, exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of the Central African Republic and the Republic of the Congo. This meticulously crafted itinerary offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural encounters, and wildlife experiences. From the majestic Boali Falls and the vibrant markets of Bangui to the deep forests of Dzanga Sangha Park and the traditional villages of the Bayaka and Baka Pygmies, this journey promises unforgettable memories. Join us for an immersive exploration that showcases the best of these two captivating countries.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Bangui (Central African Republic)
Arrive in Bangui, welcomed by the local guide and transferred to the Obangui Hotel.
Accommodation, dinner, and overnight stay at Obangui Hotel.
Day 2 :
Bangui to Boali Falls and Back
Breakfast and departure from Bangui to visit Boali Falls and the lianas bridge, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with lunch at the waterfalls.
Return to Bangui for visits to the Russian House, Craft Market, and the cosmopolitan central African market.
Transfer to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay at Obangui Hotel.
Day 3 :
Bangui to Bayanga, Dzanga Sangha Park
Breakfast, a brief city tour, and transfer to the airport for an 11 a.m. flight to Bayanga in Dzanga Sangha Park. Arrive around 1 p.m.
Lunch at Doli Lodge, followed by a small boat trip at 3 p.m. to observe the traditional Palm Raphia collection process by the Sango tribe.
Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 4 :
Doli to Yamdobé and Bayaka Pygmies' Camp in Dzanga Sangha
Breakfast and trek from Doli to Yamdobé village to meet the Bayaka Pygmies tribe, visit their large village, and continue trekking into the deep forest.
Set up tents in the deep forest, followed by fishing with Bayaka women and participating in evening dancing and storytelling.
Day 5 :
Bayaka Pygmies' Camp in Dzanga Sangha
Breakfast, trek to the hunting area, and engage in traditional Bayaka hunting with nets and honey collecting.
Lunch at the campsite and attend the Magic Ejengi dance in the evening.
Day 6 :
Bayaka Pygmies' Camp to Yamdobé, Doli Lodge, and Elephant Bai Safari
Early breakfast and trek back to Yamdobé village, then by car to Doli Lodge. After lunch, drive to Dzanga Bai for a safari, observing elephants, buffalos, sitatungas, bongos, and various birds.
Return to Doli Lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7 :
Gorilla Trekking in Bai Hoko
Early breakfast and drive to Bai Hoko in Dzanga Sangha Park for gorilla trekking.
Spend an hour with the western lowland gorillas and return to Doli Lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 8 :
Dzanga Sangha Park to Ouesso (Republic of the Congo)
Full-day motorboat journey down the Sangha River to Ouesso, Congo (over 200 km). Depart Doli Lodge at 7 a.m.
Upon arrival, complete formalities and transfer by car to the hotel. Briefing with the guide, dinner, and overnight stay at Onanga Hotel.
Day 9 :
Ouesso to Odzala Village, Baka Pygmies' Village, and Makoua
After breakfast, drive to Odzala village and then to the Baka Pygmies' village for a full day of activities, including traditional hunting and honey collecting.
In the evening, observe Iboga practices and drive to Makoua for overnight stay at Hotel Le Fleur.
Day 10 :
Makoua to Equator, Owando, and Gamboma
Breakfast and celebration of crossing the equator in Makoua.
Drive to Gamboma village, the capital of the old kingdom of the Tékés, to meet King Makoko.
Attend Mabo dance and stay overnight at Baobab Hotel.
Day 11 :
Gamboma to Mbe Kingdom and Ngabé
Breakfast and drive to Odziba and further to Mbe to meet King Makoko and explore the historic royal residence.
Continue to Ngabé for overnight stay at Touristic Lodge Ngabe.
Day 12 :
Ngabé
Breakfast and meeting with the Queen. Explore Ngabé, including the traditional mask dance of Kébé-Kébé and a canoe ride along the Congo River.
Day 13 :
Ngabé to Brazzaville
Breakfast and drive to Brazzaville, visiting the Valley of the Butterflies along the way.
Arrival in Brazzaville and transfer to the Hotel de la Paix. Meet the Congolese Sapeurs and visit the craft market.
Day 14 :
Brazzaville and Return Flight
Early breakfast and short city tour of Brazzaville, including the Savanio de Brazza sanctuary and the Congo River rapids.
Transfer to the airport for return flight.
Cost
Cost includes
- Charter domestic flight Bangui to Bayanga (Dzanga Sangha Park)
- Accommodation in lodges and hotels in CAR and Congo
- Full board meals (three times daily)
- Unlimited drinking mineral water
- Transport (minibus, Toyota Coaster bus, 4x4 jeep vehicles)
- All airport transfers
- All boats along the route
- Western lowland gorilla tracking in Dzanga Sangha NP
- All safaris and permits in Dzanga Sangha NP
- All activities, visits, entrance fees, ceremonies, and folklore
- Governmental taxes
- Financial support of local communities/tribes
- Photo and video shooting allowance
- Experienced English-speaking professional guide
Cost excludes
- International flight to Bangui (CAR) and back from Brazzaville (Republic of the Congo)
- International medical insurance
- CAR visa (approx. USD 150, obtained on arrival or in advance)
- Republic of the Congo visa (approx. USD 150, arranged by the guide or obtained in advance)
- Tips, alcohol, soft drinks, and personal expenses
- Single accommodation in lodges and hotels
