Manners in Congo-Brazzaville
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Handshake with both hands on arm
- Light kiss on cheek (close relationships)
Etiquette
- Always greet elders and visitors, avoid informal greetings
- Keep voice down in public and remove hats or sunglasses before superiors
- Hand gifts with right hand or both hands
- Photography is often prohibited at police facilities, bridges, and ports
- In dialogue, do not rush and value preliminary social pleasantries
- Avoid revealing clothing outside urban areas
- Handing things with left hand only is considered rude
- Price negotiation is common at markets but avoid arrogant attitude
- Smoking in public places is restricted in some areas
- Water and power outages are common, so prioritize advance preparation