Things to do in Central African Republic.
Visit the Lowland Gorillas
Close to Bayanga is the Dzanga Sangha Reserve home to a number of lowland gorilla groups that have been habituated to receive visitors. During your visit you will get an opportunity to enjoy an up close encounter to these Forest Giants which are believed to be closely related to the human species. In addition there is a number of amazing accommodation facilities found in this National Park where you can enjoy a night or more.
Marvel at the wooden traditional houses of Zinga
When you visit Zinga town located on the shores of River Ubangi which is one of the largest tributaries of river Congo (the longest river in the world only second after the great River Nile), you will be able to see a number beautiful houses that are constructed entirely with wood. this isolated yet beautiful town can be accessed only by a traditional canoe or by a motor boat connecting from Bangui the capital
Boganda National Museum
The Boganda National Museum is one of the best places in Central African Republic where you will be able to learn about the culture and history of this country. It houses a large collection of ancient items such as cooking utensils, musical instrument, Ivory sculptures, jewelry, and statues in ebony as well as traditional games. During your tour in the museum don’t miss out on a section that illustrates the lifestyle of the Baka pygmies living in this country. This museum is located in the downtown area of the capital Bangui
Explore Bangui
Bangui is the largest city in Central African Republic and serves as the capital of the country. this generally green City offers various tourist attractions that you can visit on your day or two day tour among which are a Central market popularly known for its beautiful malachite necklaces and the tomb belonging to a former president – jean-bedel bokassa. this city is located not far from the River shores of Ubangi River and gives holidaymakers an opportunity to see the traditional fisherman, traditional canoes and also the grass thatched huts in the local village.
Enjoy a Safari in Dzanga Sangha National Reserve
Dzanga Sangha National Reserve is located in the southwestern part of Central African Republic and it is among the most significant wildlife habitats that have been gazzetted by the country. The Dzanga Sangha National Reserve is characterized by dense tropical rainforest that is located close to River Sangha which is among the major tributaries of the long river Congo. in addition to the lowland gorillas this reserve is home to a great diversity of mammals including the red River hog, Forest elephants, water buffaloes, the giant Forest hog, the sitatunga in addition to an array of primates like the chimpanzees and several birds which can be seen during the thrilling game drives. The game reserve can easily be accessed from all the major cities and it is popularly visited by holidaymakers especially during the peak tourist season.
Meet the indigenous Baka Pygmies
The Central African Republic is home to a wide diversity of ethnic groups and tribes among which are the Baka pygmy people who live in Lobaye region located approximately 100 kilometers from Bangui the capital. These indigenous people who are Hunters and gatherers live in small low height huts that are roofed with leaves and constructed using lianas (a type of climbing plant with thick Woody stems commonly found in tropical forests). This part of the country where these people live is popularly known for its high coffee production. During your guided culture visits here you will get an opportunity to visit some of the plantations, meet the local pygmies and personally interact with them as well as observe them go about their day to day lives.
Visit the Boali Waterfall
Down the course of River Mbali close to Boali village, the water plunges over the rocks to form a very spectacular waterfall that is 50 meters high and 250 meters wide known as the Falls of Boali. The peaceful ambience here offers the perfect getaway for anyone looking for a place to escape from the noise and busy life in the city. There is an on-site restaurant by the riverside where are you can enjoy a scrumptious meal as you watch Mother Nature take her course.
Visit Bamingui-Bangoran National Park
This National Park which is also classified as a biosphere reserve is one of the most popularly visited tourist attractions found in Central African Republic. It is located in the northern part of the country and was established back in 1993. it is home to a great diversity of wild animals such as lions, cheetahs and the endangered wild African dogs. The park is commonly visited by a large number of tourists especially during the peak tourist season and several tour operators organize guided game drives here.
Go souvenir shopping at Bangui Artisans Market
One of the best places to by a souvenir while in Central African Republic is at the Artisans Market found in the capital city Bangui. This deals in a wide range locally made products including traditionally made handicrafts like musical instruments, woven products, pottery, jewelry and very beautiful hardwood carvings. You will surely find something to take for everyone you left back home.
Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Park
This huge national park is located in the northern part of Central African Republic; the Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country and covers an area of 17,000 square kilometers which equates to half the size of Belgium. it has a greatly varied flora and fauna that includes an array of species of birds, black rhinos, buffalos, elephants, leopards and cheetahs. In 1988, it was declared a UNESCO world heritage site and although it was once threatened by poaching activities, today this park offers very fascinating wildlife adventure.
Frequently asked questions on Central African Republic
Below are some of the commonly asked questions about destination Central African Republic that are asked by most holidaymakers that visit the country. We have professionally answered each of them to assist you better understand this holiday destination and plan well for your safari.
What are the Visa and passport requirements for visiting Central African?
All persons visiting the Central African Republic must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entering into the country. Citizens from countries like USA, Britain, Canada, Australia and Other EU countries will be required to obtain a visa prior to coming. All visa applications must be made through the Central African Republic Embassy. The cost of the visa differs depending on the number of days. The short-stay visas are for thirty (30) days and cost seventy five (75) Euros while the longer-stay visas of up to three (3) months cost one hundred and fifty five (155) Euros.
What is the official language spoken in Central African Republic?
Sango is the official national language for the Central African Republic, French is the official administrative language and it is the most commonly used in terms of business.
What is the local currency for Central African Republic?
In the Central African Republic, The CFA franc is the official currency and presents as coins and notes. The notes are available in denominations of 10,000, 5000, 2000, 1000 and 500; while the coins are in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1.
What is the local time in the Central African Republic?
The Central African Republic follows the Time zone of GMT+1
What is the Electricity current used in the Central African Republic?
Central African Republic runs on an electricity of 220 Volts, with 50 Hz and use the two pin round plugs. All persons visiting the country are advised to bring an adopter despite the fact that many hotels and resorts claim to provide them.
Is there internet connection in Central African Republic?
The Internet speed within Central African Republic is good and the cost to acquire the service is very reasonable. You will require to buy one of the local SIM Cards with Orange, MOOV and TELECEL being the only internet providers in the country. Some of the places where you can obtain free Wifi include: major hotels, airports, coffeehouses and restaurants in the major cities.
Can I do my laundry while in the Central African Republic?
You will be able to access laundry services at almost all the safari lodges and hotels within Central African Republic, however majorities of these facilities offer the service at a small service, so you are advised to inquire with the reception or the concierge desk about the fee.
Useful Laundry Tip: we advise holidaymakers not to put out their delicate clothing for laundry as some properties hand-wash the laundry.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Central African Republic?
Tap water is not safe to drink in Central African Republic. Ensure that all tap water to be consumed for drinking is filtered and well boiled or treated. Bottled water is also safe t drink however make sure that the seal for the bottle cap is still intact. You are highly advised to always use either bottled or boiled water to brush your teeth.
What vaccines do I need when visiting Central African Republic?
There are a number of Vaccines recommend by the World Health Organization (WHO) for all persons visiting the Central African Republic and these include: Hepatitis B, diarrhea, tetanus and hepatitis E, and all travelers of 9 months and over are required to get a yellow fever vaccine and present a certificate of proof of receiving the shot to the immigrations officers on arrival. Also Meningococcal meningitis becomes prevalent especially in the northern part of the country in the dry season, so it is greatly advised to get this vaccine as well. The rabies vaccine is recommended for visitors especially those who are likely to get in contact with animals during their stay.
You should also keep in mind that HIV/AIDS is prevalent across the Central African Republic therefore please enjoy your visit cautiously.
Is it safe to swim in the fresh waters of Central African Republic?
I should clearly point out that in the central African Reublic schistosomiasis or bilharzia is there so avoid paddling or swimming in the fresh water.
What is the best Time to Visit Central African Republic?
the dry season which normally begins in the month of December to March is considered to be best time to visit the Central African Republic. during this time there are hardly any rains, the roads are passable, the vegetation in the game parks is thin which makes it easier to spot animals, and also many of the water sources in the parks have dried up which compels many animals to crowd the few remaining water holes offering holidaymakers a more rewarding game viewing experience.
On the other hand, the rainy season which normally begins in the month of May to September or October should be avoided as many of the dirty roads especially in the urban part of the country become muddy, slippery and nearly impassable making it hard to access many of the tourist sites such as national parks. In addition, the areas close to the rivers flood which increases the risk of contracting malaria.
Generally, the Central African Republic experiences a tropical climate. The regions in the northern part of the country experience a Sahel climate while the southern areas are generally humid and hot all year round. The yearly rainfall reaches 30 inches in the northeastern region and 70 inches in the southern region with the overall temperatures in the country ranging between 70°F to 93°F.
The Harmattan season that is characterized by a harsh wind that blows from the Sahara desert and it is dry and dusty mainly affecting the northern part of the country. This wind usually sweeps across western Africa from end of November to mid-March.
