English 
NederlandsMove directly to: Practical information / Local culture
Practical information about Congo
Your trip
Dry Season (June to December): this is typically considered the best time to visit most parts of the Congo, as the weather is drier and more predictable. However, Congo can be visited anytime of the year.
Everyone must take out travel and health insurance before leaving for Congo. Whether Congo is covered by your policy differs per insurance policy. In most cases this will not be a problem. At CultureRoad we recommend: IATI Travel Insurance, a reliable company that has different insurance options that fits your personal needs. Book via the link to get a 5% discount!
To visit the Republic of the Congo, most travellers will need to apply for a visa at the nearest Congo embassy. The process can take some time, as it is still handled in a more traditional, paper-based way. While many African countries have moved to e-visas, Congo has not yet adopted this system. A letter of invitation (LOI) is required for your application, which we provide to you upon booking a tour with us. For those without a Congolese embassy in their country, we can assist with alternative visa options.
Congo uses the time zones UCT+1. Congo does not practice daylight savings – there is as no difference between summer and winter time.
The official currency in Congo is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). Cash is widely used, especially in rural areas, so it’s wise to have some local currency on hand. While ATMs are available in cities like Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, it’s best to take cash with you, either Euros or USD. Our local partner can help you exchange your money.
While daily spending varies depending on your spending habits, we recommend budgeting around €30 to €40 per day to cover the basics. However, if you plan on buying souvenirs, bring a bit more. Local crafts can range in price, with traditional items costing around €20-50. Drinks are usually around €1-2, and you can expect to pay between €5-10 for a meal.
Tipping local guides and drivers is always encouraged, they are custom and somewhat expected. Local wages are very modest, so a small contribution from you will often make a big difference to our local partners and their families. The amount you tip is, of course, ultimately your decision.
For the latest exchange rates, visit https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/.
We are always available to advise you when booking a flight. However, most customers prefer to book the flight themselves. This often works out cheaper for you, and it allows you to choose you own preferences.
Practical information
The complete electricity supply in Congo is 220 Volt / 50 Hz. The plug sockets are the same as those in Western Europe. However, you may occasionally need adapter plugs, so we recommend bringing a universal plug. There are also regular power outages, so make sure to charge everything as soon as there is power in your hotel. A power bank is also recommended to keep you connected when the lights go out.
Internet access is generally available in hotels, though the speed can vary. Mobile coverage is fairly widespread in urban areas but might be spotty in remote regions. If you need reliable access, consider purchasing a local SIM card, which will make staying connected much easier. If you want a local SIM card, let us know in advance, before your arrival. Buying SIM cards can take time in Congo, and our guides will purchase them for you if you need one.
Local culture
Congo is rich in culture, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs. Most of the people are Christian and faith plays a major role in their lives. The locals are known for their hospitality, and tourism is growing steadily. Expect people to be curious and friendly.
Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind:
– Wear simple clothes (t-shirt with pants / skirt).
– Avoid drinking alcohol in public. If in doubt of whether it’s appropriate, please ask your local guide.
– Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a sacred place.
– Many Congolese are not used to seeing tourists, so any looks you may get are usually just out of curiosity and are meant well.
Congo is generally safe for travelers, but like anywhere, it’s good to stay cautious. The areas in Congo that we visit are places where we feel comfortable and where we feel are safe to bring people. If the situation changes, we will respond immediately. We therefore ask for a certain flexibility from our travellers. The local guide always has the last word regarding changes in the tour schedule.
Some measures that we do pass on to our travellers;
– If you want to set off by yourself in the big cities, discuss this with the guide first.
– Leave your most beautiful jewelry and watches at home.
– We do not discuss the itinerary or the names of our hotels with anyone. While it will of course only be out of curiosity that someone asks, we don’t share this information with others purely as a precaution.
– While you can bring most belongings without hassle, you might experience curiosity at customs, especially around electronics. Before leaving the country, ensure your laptop and phone are free of sensitive or explicit content.
In general, you can take photos freely. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
– Always ask permission before taking a photo of a person.
– Do not take pictures of military personnel, military installations, police officers or government buildings.
In Congo, food is an integral part of daily life, reflecting a blend of African, French, and Belgian influences. Must-try dishes include Saka-Saka (cassava leaves), Ngala (grilled fish), and various stews. You’ll also find an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables.
While you can enjoy local cuisine, it’s best to avoid drinking tap water: stick to bottled or filtered water. Alcohol consumption is common, and you’ll find local beers and wines available.
Since we mainly deal with warm temperatures, we recommend that you bring comfortable and breathable clothing. During the rainy season, we advise you to also bring rain gear and waterproof clothing. It is also useful to bring good walking shoes, as many roads are unpaved. If there is time, you will be able to do laundry in most hotels in the big cities.
Congo is a developing country with a very turbulent recent history. Healthcare is therefore very limited. Hygiene standards can vary, so it’s a good idea to come prepared. Make sure to pack hand sanitiser, sunscreen, and insect repellent. We also recommend staying up-to-date with the latest health guidelines and travel advisories for Congo.
We advise you always to the latest health risk programs for the region you’re going to visit. Check with your own government for the latest information about your destination.
Please be aware the Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory in this country.
The Yellow Fever vaccination is valid for life and becomes effective 10 days after immunisation. It’s essential to get vaccinated on time, as trying to enter the country before the 10-day waiting period may result in being denied entry. If you lose your vaccination certificate, contact the centre where you got it: they might be able to issue a duplicate. While there’s minimal risk in getting revaccinated if needed, it’s always a good idea to consult with a doctor first. Please consider this information as a guideline, it does not constitute professional medical advice.