Description
Step into a journey that threads together the pulse of Congolese culture with the raw heart of its untamed rainforests. Ultimate Congo brings you 13 days of immersive travel across the Republic of Congo - blending wildlife trekking, rich cultural traditions, and some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.
Your journey begins in the vibrant coastal city of Pointe-Noire, where Atlantic breezes and lively rhythms set the tone. From there, walk through local markets, visit the African Circle Museum, and try your hand at traditional crafts, like mask-making with local artisans.
Float deeper into cultural life by visiting Bilala and Ngabe, remote villages where you’ll share meals, dance with the community, and learn from forest-dwelling traditions passed down through generations. Between culture-rich moments, embark on river voyages through the Congo River. This mighty waterway shapes lives, trade, and stories all around it.
Then, venture into the Congo Basin rainforest, one of Earth’s great wild places and the planet’s second-largest tropical forest. Stand in awe as you track western lowland gorillas, search for forest elephants, forest buffalo, and perhaps even spot spotted hyenas or rare birds hidden among the canopies. You’ll trek and paddle, exploring this ecosystem’s quiet power.
Throughout, stay in comfortable lodges and local hotels that balance rest and responsibility. Our expert guides - local and ATE expedition leaders - ensure safety, meaningful encounters, and caring support.
Ultimate Congo is a way to connect deeply with the river that flows through people’s lives, with the forests that breathe against the skies, and with stories that refuse to be ignored.
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 itinerary
- Travel insurance, including emergency medical evacuation insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Extra (2nd) gorilla trekking experience in Odzala-Kokoua National Park (750 USD cost)