Travel in the Congo

Home to over eighty percent of the planet’s lowland gorilla and wild chimpanzee populations, custom journeys to The Republic of Congo offer adventurous travelers some of the world’s best wildlife viewing opportunities - without the crowds.

The Republic of Congo (not to be confused with the Democratic Republic of Congo, formerly Zaire) is home to the inquisitive, lush rainforests, bustling Congo River rapids, and it’s rich in wildlife including its most famous resident, the lowland gorilla. For experienced travelers seeking to experience pristine Africa rainforest and wildlife before the tour buses arrive, the Republic of Congo is a wonderful option.

While the main draw to the region is unforgettable lowland gorilla treks (there is truly nothing on earth like it), visitors quickly realize that the primates’ backyards are also quite unforgettable. Imagine electric green hillsides dotted with vibrant orchids, chimps squealing. parrots chatting, and having this all to yourself. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or climbing through the pristine Congo Basin, keep your eyes open for the area’s spectacular and lesser-known residents such as De Brazza’s Monkey, Putty-Nosed Monkey, Grey-Cheeked Mangabey, Crowned Monkey, Colobus Monkey and Mustached Monkey. You will see what a luxury it is to travel in Africa in such a stunning setting without the crowds.

My Way Travel’s custom itineraries in the Republic of Congo include visits to one of Africa’s oldest national parks, Odzala-Kokoua National Park, which is located in the north close to the Gabon border. This wildlife haven was founded in 1935 during the French Colonial period and is home to over 400 bird species, 4,400 plant species, forest elephant, forest buffalo, and twelve types of primates including the western lowland gorilla. The region is known for its expansive clearings called “bais” which provide excellent wildlife viewing (and photograph!) opportunities. As opposed to Uganda and Rwanda, where you have a gorilla permit for one day (and one hour with the gorillas), the Republic of Congo permits allow for two days of access to the gorillas.

Please note: Gorilla trekking is a physically strenuous activity, during which visitors may spend from one to eight hours hiking through dense rainforest in an effort to see gorillas in their natural habitat. A reasonable degree of fitness and stamina is required for any programs that include gorilla trekking.