Tourist attractions

Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park

Region: Bamingui-Bangoran Prefecture northeast

Natural Heritage

UNESCO World Heritage. Diverse large mammals including white rhino and elephants inhabit savanna and wetlands

Dzanga-Ndoki National Park

Region: Sangha-Mbaéré Prefecture southwest

Natural Heritage

Part of tri-national protected area. Famous for 'bai' salt springs where forest elephants gather

Boali Falls (Chutes de Boali)

Region: Ombella-M'Poko Prefecture

Nature

Impressive 50m high waterfall with increased water volume during rainy season

Bangui Cathedral

Region: Bangui city center

Religious Architecture

Beautiful red brick exterior Catholic cathedral

Km5 Central Market

Region: Bangui

Market

Huge popular market lined with spices and handicrafts

Mount Ngaoui Hiking

Region: Near Cameroon border

Outdoor

Climbing route from country's highest peak overlooking vast savanna

Ubangi River Cruise

Region: Bangui ~ Democratic Republic of Congo border

River Cruise

Evening sunset cruises popular

Baka Pygmy Village Visit

Region: Southwest tropical forest

Cultural Experience

Learning about hunter-gatherer culture of minority ethnic group

Bangui Museum

Region: Bangui

Museum

Exhibiting traditional cultural materials such as ethnic instruments and masks

Sangha River Canoe Safari

Region: Around Dzanga

Eco-tour

Canoe experience on clear stream flowing through lowland tropical forest

Suggested itineraries

Bangui and Nearby Safari 4 Days

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Bangui city tour, Boali Falls, Ubangi River sunset cruise

Beginner-friendly model course enjoying both urban culture and nature in short time

Two World Heritage National Parks Exploration 10 Days

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Dzanga-Ndoki National Park, Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park, Pygmy cultural experience

Full-scale nature trip combining forest elephant observation and savanna safari

Travel tips

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs danger level 3-4 throughout. Always check latest security information
  • Be cautious of armed checkpoints when traveling by land; arrange trustworthy driver
  • Rainy season (May-October) makes unpaved roads muddy and travel difficult
  • High risk of malaria and yellow fever; vaccinations and mosquito prevention essential
  • Cash is mainly CFA franc. Cards only at some hotels in capital
  • Always obtain permission from subjects before taking photographs
  • Power outages frequent; carry portable battery
  • Always use bottled water for drinking; avoid ice
  • Even light clothing should cover shoulders and knees
  • Knowing basic French or Sango expressions smooths negotiations