A Visitor Guide to the Central African Republic

Discover the Central African Republic (CAR) with our in-depth travel guide, featuring top attractions, practical tips, and unique experiences for an unforgettable adventure.

Tucked away in the cradle of Africa lies one of the continent’s hidden treasures—the Central African Republic (CAR), a place that still offers explorers an untouched land filled with natural beauty and authentic experiences. Though it may have had a rough past, CAR is slowly but surely opening back up to tourists for those brave enough or simply craving the adventure of exploring such an untamed destination. Read on to know all the things you need to get the most out of your trip.

Quick Facts

• Capital: Bangui
• Language: French and Sango
• Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
• Time Zone: West Africa Time (UTC+1)
• Ideal Season: December to March (dry season)

Getting There

By Air

Visitors from the rest of the world can gain access via Bangui M’Poko International Airport (BGF), which lies just 7 km from downtown. Check out Air France and Kenya Airways. Royal Air Maroc also offers flights to Bangui. Ensure you have the appropriate visa before traveling.

By Land

Ouaka is a remote and often inaccessible part of CAR by land, where the roads may be unpaved or washed out. That said, you can enter from Cameroon, Chad, and D.R.C. Check the security situation before planning to travel overland.

Where to Stay

Luxury Accommodations

• Hotel Ledger Plaza Bangui: A luxury property with comfortable rooms, a pool, and excellent dining options.
• Somba Hotel: Offers cozy rooms, conveniently situated in Bangui.

Mid-Range Options

• Oubangui Hotel: A clean, personable choice.
• Hotel du Centre: Not too far from the action with a few good features to ensure a comfortable stay.

Budget-Friendly Stays

• La Couronne Hotel: The best budget hotel, attracting travelers with its basic facilities and friendly staff.
• Auberge Linga Tere: Simple and fairly cheap accommodation.

Top Attractions

Dzanga-Sangha National Park

For those interested in wildlife, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. The park is part of the Sangha Trinational and hosts forest elephants, Western Lowland gorillas, and numerous avian species. The area offers an eco-tourism and cultural experience with the local Ba’Aka people residing in nomadic camps near the park.

Bangui

Bangui, the capital city, has several attractions:

• Boganda National Museum: Discover the history, culture, and art of CAR.
• Cathedral Notre-Dame of Bangui: A significant Catholic house of worship in the region.
• Place de la République: The central square of Bangui, showcasing the lively vibes of the town.

Chinko Nature Reserve

Located in the southeastern part of CAR, Chinko is a conservation area housing diverse flora and fauna, from lions to elephants and various primates. It is a nature refuge for wildlife enthusiasts and conservation-minded visitors.

Boali Falls

Approximately 100 kilometers outside Bangui, the Chutes de Boali waterfalls are a great day-trip destination, especially during the rainy season when the water flow is at its heaviest.

Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Park

Located in northern CAR, this protected area was Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. It is known for its savanna landscapes containing all four of the African Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes. It’s an excellent place for game and bird viewing.

Culture and Traditions

The People

The Central African Republic hosts more than 80 different ethnic groups, each with unique traditions and languages. The largest ethnic groups are the Baya, Banda, Mandjia, Sara (including the Goulaye and Kare), Mboum, and M’Baka.

Festivals and Events

• National Day: Celebrated on December 1st with parades, music, and dance.
• Bangui Carnival: Features traditional music, dance, and colorful costumes.
• M’Poko Music Festival: Showcases traditional and contemporary music from the country.

Traditional Music and Dance

Central Africans share a rich cultural heritage where music and dance play essential roles. Instruments like the string instrument, balafon (a wooden xylophone), and drums are common. Dances often tell stories of their history and culture.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Health and Safety

• Vaccines: Ensure all your vaccinations are up to date, including yellow fever, which is required upon arrival. Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and cholera vaccines are also recommended.
• Malaria: Malaria is a high risk; preventative measures like prophylaxis, mosquito nets, and repellents are essential.
• Stability: CAR has experienced political instability. Stay updated on current events, avoid areas with ongoing conflicts, register with your embassy, and follow local police advice.

Currency and Payments

The most used currency is the Central African CFA franc. Because ATMs are scarce, bring all the cash you need for your trip. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels and businesses in Bangui.

Communication

The official languages are French and Sango. While you may not have constant internet access, Wi-Fi is relatively easy to find in larger cities and hotels.

Transportation

• Taxis: Available in Bangui (negotiate the price beforehand).
• Car Rentals: Available in Bangui, but travel can be challenging due to the country’s few paved roads.
• Local Transport: Minibuses and motorbike taxis are common but can be crowded and unpredictable.

Cuisine

Traditional Dishes

• Kanda: Meatballs made of roughly ground peanuts and spices, ideally served with rice or plantains.
• Caterpillars: Fried or grilled caterpillars, considered a delicacy.
• Saka-Saka: A meal prepared with cassava leaves, often served with fish or meat.

Dining Tips

• Water: Either buy bottled water or boil your drinking and cooking water.
• Proper Manners: Eating by hand is common. Wash your hands before each meal.

Outdoor Activities

Safari Tours

Specifically in Dzanga-Sangha and Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Parks, CAR offers genuine safari experiences. Guided tours provide opportunities to see elephants, gorillas, and more at close range.

Hiking and Trekking

The country is great for hiking, featuring varied terrain. Popular routes include the Lobaye region, home to dense waterfalls and forests.

River Excursions

A boat trip on the Ubangi River around Bangui offers views of the city and its surroundings. It’s a relaxing way to observe life along both sides of the river.

Bird Watching

CAR is a paradise for bird watchers with more than 700 species. National parks and nature reserves are ideal for spotting rare or endemic species.

Responsible Travel

Supporting Local Communities

Stay in green lodges and be sustainable with local operators. Engage in indigenous cultural exchanges.

Conservation Efforts

CAR faces threats from poaching and deforestation. Support local conservation initiatives through tourism and participate in funded programs dedicated to protecting wildlife and natural habitats.

Conclusion

The Central African Republic is the perfect destination for adventurers, offering experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. From the lively streets of Bangui to its dense rainforests, this landlocked country in Africa will surprise you with thrilling adventures and majestic wildlife. With proper planning and a penchant for adventure, your trip to this amazing country will be an experience of a lifetime. So grab your things and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the heart of Africa.