Description
Begin your journey in the vibrant capital of Brazzaville, then drift along the life-giving Congo River to explore culture, wildlife, and communities deeply rooted in the rainforest.
You’ll trace the river’s current to understand why it represents more than water - it’s the pulse of the region, the invisible thread linking city and wilderness. Early days bring gentle immersion: exploring Brazzaville’s colonial history, learning about Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, and discovering local creativity from street art to the flamboyant Sapeur fashion world.
Next stop, the fishing village of Manguengue. You’ll arrive early, join the fish market, prepare fresh meals alongside villagers, and relax on riverbanks shaded by palms. From there, boat to Ngabe, where you'll stay in charming cottages, hear legends of the river, and experience community rhythms - church, music, football, cooking, and the hypnotic Kebekebe dance.
Midway through, your adventure shifts north to Odzala-Kokoua National Park - a protected rainforest sanctuary in the Congo Basin, a globally critical ecosystem. Here, wildlife takes center stage: western lowland gorillas, forest elephants, bongos, forest buffalo, spotted hyenas, and an orchestra of birds await your discovery under an undisturbed canopy. Navigate thick forest paths, glide through rivers in kayaks, and share meals at camp. The wilderness sets the pace.
The final day brings reflection and farewell. Return to Brazzaville for a last cultural immersion. Souvenir markets, a farewell lunch, and a moment to soak in life by the river before your onward journey.
This is Congo Highlights with Arctic Tern Expeditions: nine days of discovery woven from culture, wildlife, rivers, and forests - an experience of humanity and habitat hand in hand.
Important Information
GORILLA TREKKING
Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking in Odzala-Kokoua National Park (Guaranteed Encounter!)
Guaranteed Encounter with Western Lowland Gorillas:
This is where our exclusive itinerary sets itself apart! Unlike some tours with uncertain sightings, we offer a guaranteed opportunity to encounter a family of western lowland gorillas in their natural habitat. Odzala-Kokoua National Park is home to three habituated gorilla families, each with around 20 individuals, situated in different areas of the forest.
Multiple Tracking Options:
While only one gorilla trek is included in our base package, Odzala offers the unique opportunity to see a second gorilla family on your second morning in the park. This is a fantastic way to witness the diverse dynamics within different gorilla groups. If you'd like to add this unforgettable experience, an additional trekking permit can be purchased directly at Odzala for $750 USD per person.
Protecting the Wildlife:
It is currently a requirement for all participants in the Gorilla Trekking experience to undergo COVID-19 PCR testing in Brazzaville. This is a highly sensitive population of a critically endangered species. Ensuring their health is paramount to enjoying a safe and successful visit to these incredible family groups.
VISAS
All international travllers need a visa to enter Congo-Brazzaville. This itinerary stays in Congo for the entirety of the expedition, so there is no need for other visas, unless you are travelling independently before or after.
The typical process of acquiring a visa for the Republic of Congo entails sending your passport to a Congolese embassy for visa approval. We do not need to go through this process, as our local agent will arrange for all Arctic Tern Expeditions guests to be granted a visa upon arrival at the Maya Maya International Brazzaville Airport. This saves time, effort, and cost. The price of your visa is included in the price of the trip.
INSURANCE
All guests need to purchase adequate travel insurance for this expedition. Make sure your insurance includes emergency medical evacuation coverage.
Exclusions
- International flights to and from Republic of Congo
- Any accommodations not specifically included in the itinerary
- Travel insurance, including emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Extra (2nd) gorilla trekking experience in Odzala-Kokoua National Park (750 USD cost)