Top 10 of the best things to see on a safari in the Congo

Safari in Congo: The 10 best things to see

A safari in the Congo means experiencing the country’s unique atmosphere. Between the hustle and bustle of Brazzaville and the unreal calm of the Sangha forest, a change of scenery is guaranteed. Each region has its share of entertainment and attractions, while offering a wide variety of landscapes. So here are the top 10 things to see on a Congo Safari.

1 - Brazzaville, a sensational city

Brazzaville is the capital of the Republic of Congo, situated on the right bank of the Congo River. Unmissable and emblematic, Brazzaville is a colorful and verdant city, the ideal starting point for a Congo Safari. It stretches over 10 kilometers and faces its big sister Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Brazzaville is a bustling city, but not one that attracts many tourists, which is what makes it so authentic. The city of Brazzaville alone offers an interesting range of possibilities, with its museums, picturesque markets, old quarters and ceramics and sculpture workshops. Among the many monuments and tourist attractions you can discover are the Basilica of Sainte-Anne du Congo, the Sacré-Coeur cathedral, the Poto-Poto painting school, the sculpture and ceramics workshops scattered around the city, as well as the markets and old quarters. The Mungali Bakongo and Poto Poto districts are particularly lively, and will immerse you in the Congolese atmosphere from the moment you arrive.

2 - A remarkable environment : the Congo Basin

The Congo Basin is one of the largest expanses of equatorial forest in the world. An essential site for a Congo Safari, it stretches over six countries and is considered to be the planet’s second green lung after the Amazon forest. For over 50,000 years, the Congo Basin has played a major role in the region, providing vital resources for almost 75 million people.

The trinational Sangha site is located in the north-east of the Congo Basin and straddles three countries: Cameroon, the Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo. It comprises three national parks covering an area of 750,000 hectares. The special feature of this site is its high level of conservation, which has enabled it to preserve a pristine, untouched natural environment that promises an enchanting experience on a Congo Safari.

For example, the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park is located in Congo-Brazzaville, north of Ouesso, and forms part of the Trinational Sangha site with the Dzanga Sangha Park in the Central African Republic and the Lobéké Park in Cameroon. At the heart of the Nouabalé-Ndoki park lies Mbeli Baï, a veritable haven of peace. This 13-hectare marshy clearing is home to populations of elephants, buffalo and gorillas, as well as thousands of birds.

3 - Meeting the people of the Congo

A safari in the Congo is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Congolese culture and traditions.

The Congo is home to a myriad of different peoples, depending on the region. In the northern forests, indigenous populations such as the BaAka pygmies still inhabit the Congo Basin forest. Although no systematic census has yet been carried out, in 1984 it was estimated that they represented around 2.29% of the population. The indigenous peoples of the Congo Basin region have lived in the primary forests for thousands of years. The pygmies are one of the last indigenous populations of this African forest. With forest exploitation and modernization, their cultures and traditions are threatened with extinction. Once semi-nomadic, many of these communities have now become sedentary.

4 – A unique flora

A safari in Congo Brazzaville is also an opportunity to discover some unusual flora. The Congo Forest, also known as the Congo Basin Forest, is characteristic of a forest in its purest state, untouched by any trace of human activity. Covering 180 million hectares in six Central African countries, it is home to a number of emblematic plant and animal species.

Its humid tropical climate, with an average maximum temperature of 30°C and minimum of 21°C and abundant annual rainfall, makes it a region where vegetation is extremely prolific.

This forest is of great importance as it provides a large quantity of goods and services, and its value to the economy is undeniable, both as a source of primary materials and as a climate regulator.

Threatened by human construction, poaching and deforestation, it is a vulnerable region. That’s why preserving the forests of the Congo Basin is essential, vital even, for the future and the ecological balance of Africa and the world.

5 – An Emblematic African wildlife

The wildlife of Congo Brazzaville is extremely varied, particularly in the forest where the environment has remained very wild. The area is home to common and widespread species as well as much rarer species, some of which are even endangered.

On a Congo Safari, you can see African elephants, chimpanzees, bongos, lowland gorillas, okapis, bonobos, buffalo, hippos, fish, crocodiles, hundreds of different species of birds and much more. All these species live together in a great diversity of wildlife, preserved thanks to its many ecosystems (Baï, forest, savannah).

6 - The Congo River and the Sangha River

Congo Brazzaville is also rich in rivers, starting with the Congo River. At 4,700 km (2,922 miles) long, it is the second longest river in Africa after the Nile, and the 8th longest in the world. It rises in the highlands of the Democratic Republic of Congo and flows through three countries before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. It is this river and its many tributaries that feed the world’s second largest tropical rainforest.

The Livingstone Falls in the DRC prevent navigation on the river from the sea. But the river remains navigable in sections, and in particular between Kinshasa and Kisangani, which represents a navigable corridor of 2,495 km, ideal for exploring on a safari or cruise. Much of Central Africa’s trade flows via the river and the surrounding railways.

The river provides running water and food for the people living along its banks on a daily basis. With its large flow, the river is also a source of hydroelectric power, exploited by a number of dams.

The Sangha River is 790 km long. It rises in Cameroon and flows into the Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo. Easily navigable, the river flows through the forest of the Congo Basin, and its banks can be explored on the Expéditions Ducret cruises from Brazzaville to Ouesso.

7 - Dive into the immensity of the Loufoulakari Falls

Loufoulakari and Bela are waterfalls located in the south-west of the country, 75km south of Brazzaville. They are the most impressive waterfalls in the country and offer a beautiful view of the Congolese rainforest. An exceptional landscape, the falls are 291m above sea level. In a grandiose setting, the power of nature is revealed in a pool of greenery.

8 - Discover the breathtaking scenery of the Gorge de Diosso

Also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Congo”. An ideal stop-off point on a Congo safari, this natural curiosity was carved out by the rains of the Atlantic coast. The gorge is decorated by rocky ridges and red rock cliffs up to 50 m high, overlooking a valley with abundant vegetation.

9 - The Atlantic coast

To the west, on the Atlantic coast, lies the country’s second city, Pointe-Noire, the economic capital. Its deep-water port and oil reserves have helped to make the city a center of entertainment, business opportunities, fashion and cultural exchange.

The wild coastline close to the city boasts a number of heavenly beaches that attract families, including the Pointe Indienne beach, an ideal day trip away from the city. The Atlantic coast offers waves that will delight surfers.

You can also spot migrating whales between July and September. The whales migrate from the Antarctic to the Gulf of Guinea in July to give birth and then return to the cool waters of the south until the end of September. It is also possible to observe turtles laying their eggs between September and April.

The waters of the region are extremely well-stocked with fish, and fishing enthusiasts will be delighted.

10 - The enigmatic Trou de Nguela

The Trou de Nguela, or God’s Hole, 80 kilometers from Brazzaville, is a large basin with steep slopes covered in grass and shrubs, with a small relief in the center. While the reasons for this atypical formation remain a mystery, the landscape remains a unique and atypical place and is home to a ‘sacred’ site for pilgrims.

Discover the landscapes of the Republic of Congo

The landscapes of the Republic of Congo

Despite its many natural assets, such as its tropical forest, fine sandy beaches and exceptional landscapes, the Congo has not yet become a popular tourist destination for travelers. Still little-known, it remains an exclusive destination for nature lovers and adventurers in search of unforgettable sensations.

Tourist activities in the Congo are still underdeveloped, but real efforts are being made to develop the tourism sector. For the moment, the majority of offers concern top-of-the-range services that guarantee the preservation of such a sensitive environment.

The Republic of Congo is a Central African country surrounded by 5 other countries : Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic. With a surface area of 342,000 km2 and located on either side of the equator, the Congo provides a wide variety of landscapes.

Between the hustle and bustle of the cities, the coastal landscapes and the calm of the forest, travelers can discover the lush Congolese countryside on a safari or a cruise on the Congo River. This is the richness of the Congo, a country with many atmospheres that will take you on a journey through many landscapes.

A region subject to geographical and climatic factors

The equatorial regions are subject to a hot, humid climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. Located astride the equator, the Congo has an equatorial climate in the north and a more tropical climate in the southern parts of the country.

The equator crosses the country at the town of Makoua. This is why the north of the country is largely covered by dense, humid forest, symptomatic of an equatorial climate. While the southern part of the country has a sub-equatorial, tropical climate, with savannah and less dense forests.

Let yourself be carried away by the urban frenzy

With just over 5 million inhabitants, the population is predominantly urban. In fact, 60% of Congolese citizens live between Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. In addition 10% of the population live along the railway line that links the two cities.

Congo has a population density of 16 inhabitants per square kilometer. The population is very unevenly distributed between the country’s different regions. The rural regions of the south are more densely populated than those of the north. Indeed, they are largely covered by the Congo forest, making them hostile areas.

There are few urban landscapes in the Republic of Congo, a country largely covered by natural areas. Although some areas can be described as human deserts. Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire stand out in this green setting. The two cities are immersed in a daily hustle and bustle that highlights Congolese culture. Thus they allows visitors to discover the Republic of Congo from a more urban perspective.

The gentle terrain of Congo-Brazzaville

The relief is moderate in the Congo, with no snow-capped mountain ranges as in some neighboring countries. Nevertheless, it is possible to distinguish 3 types of relief.

Firstly, the plains. These are located mainly in the west between the coast and the Niari valley and in the north-west of the country with the Congolese basin, a generally marshy setting. 

The rest of the country is made up mainly of plateau and hills with an average height of around 860m. The regions with more moderate relief are generally made up of savannah or forest.

Finally, the medium mountains are located in the south-west of Congo Brazzaville. There, you will find the Chaillu massif whose highest points are Mont Bigourou and Mont de la Mayombe. The hills are located in the south-east of the country. The highest point in the Republic of Congo is Mont Nabemba, at 1,020m. It is located in the sparsely populated north-western region of the Sangha department.

A country with magnificent vegetation

In the Congo, the distribution of vegetation is influenced by the relief.

This is why, in the north, the vegetation consists essentially of an equatorial forest, the Congo forest. This is a tropical rainforest with flooded areas. Extremely dense, it is one of the last habitats of the pygmy populations.

Once south of the equator, the vegetation gradually thins out, giving way to the savannah with its tall grasses dotted with groves. The savannah covers 30% of the country and is mainly located between the Niari valley in the west of the country and the central plateau.

In the south-west, the forest takes precedence once again, mainly in the Mayombe chain and the Massif Chaillu. In the south-east, in the hills, there are large pastures.

This vegetation is specific to the Congolese region. This is why a safari or cruise in the Congo is an opportunity to plunge into exotic and exhilarating settings and reach the heart of Central Africa, deep and wild.

The equatorial forest, emblem of Central Africa

Around two-thirds of Congo Brazzaville is covered in forest. This represents 21 million hectares of forest cover. The remaining third of the country is divided between savannah and forest massifs. A real carbon sink, the Congo forest is characteristic of the tropical rainforests found in equatorial regions.

Two types of landscape predominate in the forest. The dry forest, which is lighter, with trees over 40m tall and a rich undergrowth and the flooded forest, characterized by its marshy waters, high density and low trees. It is located in alluvial areas, often close to watercourses.

Congo Brazzaville is the 15th most forested country in the world, covering 70% of its territory.

This dense forest cover is home to over 400 species of mammals, as well as almost 10,000 plant species.

The Congo has 4 national parks, all located in the Congo Forest. The purpose of these parks is to ensure the preservation of the Congolese flora and fauna. These protected areas are home to endangered species such as antelopes, hippopotamus, buffalos, gorillas and chimpanzees.

Since the early 2000s, the Congo has been conducting joint operations with UNESCO to maintain and preserve the environment. In particular, the civil authorities ensure that the laws on logging and poaching are respected. In all, 13% of the country’s surface area is classified as a protected area. Action to conserve natural sites primarily concerns national parks. This is why the Sangha trinational site has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012.

Congo, a country of land and water

Congo’s equatorial climate makes it a humid country. The region is watered all year round by abundant tropical rainfall, which feeds the rivers and ponds.

The Congo also has an extensive hydrographic network. The country is crisscrossed by rivers and is home to two river basins. To be precise : the Congo Basin in the north and the Kouilou Basin in the south. The country is also bordered along its entire eastern border by the Congo River, Africa’s second largest river. In addition, the region is crossed by one of its main tributaries, the Sangha River.

These equatorial features offer travelers the chance to discover unique landscapes that are unique to equatorial countries. Those particular conditions provide a home for an extremely well-developed fauna.

The aquatic landscapes are particularly pleasant to discover on a safari cruise.

A paradise coast

In the south-west of the country, the Republic of Congo has access to the Atlantic Ocean with a 170 km-long coastline. The coast, lined with lagoons and mangroves, is an ideal destination for enjoying fine sandy beaches. Pointe Indienne beach being one of the best known.

Also on the coast is Pointe Noire, the country’s second-largest city and the economic capital of Congo Brazzaville.

Further south, still on the coast, lies the Mayombe region, with its craggy reliefs sometimes reaching 800m in height. At the heart of this massif lies Mount Berongou, culminating at 903m.

This oceanic landscape is not what you expect when you think of Central Africa. And yet the Congo is both a Central African country and a destination lined with heavenly beaches.

CONGO SAFARI

Safari Congo

What to see on a Congo safari ?

The Republic of Congo is a fascinating African destination for safari enthusiasts.

A very safe and very wild country, which for a long time remained far from the tourist routes, it is now opening up in part thanks to the travel possibilities offered by Ducret Expeditions, the first Congolese tour operator to offer safari cruises on the Congo and Sangha rivers in the heart of rainforest.

What animals to observe during a Congo safari cruise ?

Lowland gorillas: The Nouabalé Ndoki National Park, located in the north of the Republic of Congo, is one of the few places in the world where lowland gorillas can be observed in their natural habitat. The lowland gorilla is an endangered species.

Hippopotamuses: Hippopotamuses are fascinating animals to observe during a safari. They spend most of their time in water and are known for their aggressive behavior towards humans. The Congo River is one of the best places to observe these giant animals. Visitors can take boat safaris to get up close to hippos in their natural habitat.

Forest elephants: Nouabalé Ndoki National Park is a paradise for forest elephants. Visitors can watch these majestic animals move in herds through the dense, humid forest. Local guides will share their knowledge of elephant behavior and conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals.

Birds: The Congo is an amazing place for birdwatching. The country is home to over 1000 species of birds, some of which are endemic to the region. Visitors can observe a variety of birds such as hornbills, parrots, eagles, ibises, flamingos and many more.

 

Nouabalé Ndoki National Park: a safari away from the crowds

Nouabalé Ndoki National Park is one of the largest nature reserves in Central Africa, located in northern Congo. With an area of more than 4,000 km², the park is home to a great diversity of animal and plant species. The park is considered one of the most remarkable places in the world for the study of great apes, in particular the western lowland gorillas.

The park was established in 1993 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. The park is divided into three main areas: the Kouyou basin, the Sangha basin, and the transition zone. Each area is home to a variety of unique animal and plant species. It is a wonderful place to go on a safari away from the crowds in a very preserved territory.

It is home to many primates, including western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, monkeys, mandrills and colobus monkeys. Western lowland gorillas are a critically endangered species, with an estimated population of less than 5,000 individuals. The park is therefore of great importance for the conservation of this species.

The Nouabalé Ndoki gorillas have been studied for over 25 years. Researchers have studied their social behavior, reproduction, diet and habitat. The information collected has led to a better understanding of the biology and ecology of this critically endangered species.

Nouabalé Ndoki is also home to a wide variety of birds including parrots, hornbills, eagles and vultures that can be seen on Congo Safari. The park’s wetlands are also an important habitat for many species of fish and reptiles, including crocodiles.

The park is also known for its spectacular landscapes, with a wide variety of forest types including transitional forest, lowland forest, and montane forest. Visitors can also observe many species of plants, including orchids and lianas.

It offers eco-tourism opportunities for visitors looking to explore nature while preserving the environment. Congo Safaris are guided and visitors can observe gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants and other species in their natural habitat.

Nouabalé Ndoki National Park also offers research opportunities for scientists interested in the biology and ecology of gorillas and other species. Researchers can work with local rangers to collect data and conduct studies on the park’s biodiversity.

Nouabalé Ndoki in Congo is an important conservation location for western lowland gorillas and other critically endangered species. The park is an example of how nature conservation can be combined with ecological tourism and scientific research. Visitors can see rare species.

What to see during a Congo safari in Nouabalé Ndoki National Park?

It is inhabited by a wide variety of animal species, some of which are threatened with extinction. Among the animals that can be seen in the park are lowland gorillas, forest elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, pangolins, crocodiles, monkeys and rare birds.

The best way to explore the park is on a guided safari. The safaris are organized by experienced guides who are familiar with the fauna and flora of the park, and who can provide interesting information on the different animal and plant species.

Boat safaris are particularly popular, as they offer great views of the rainforest and allow visitors to see animals from a different vantage point. Crocodiles and hippos are often seen in the rivers and swamps, and monkeys and birds can be seen in the trees along the banks. Find our Safari itinerary here.

Walking safaris are also very popular, as they offer a more immersive experience of the rainforest. Guides can lead visitors through hidden trails in the forest, where they can observe animals such as gorillas, chimpanzees and forest elephants. Walking safaris require good physical condition and visitors should follow safety guidelines to avoid dangerous encounters with wild animals.

The Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park is an essential destination for nature and adventure lovers. Guided game drives offer a unique experience to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, and the park’s conservation efforts ensure that these species will be preserved for future generations. Visitors should, however, be aware of potential dangers and follow safety guidelines to fully enjoy their experience in the park.

Western lowland gorillas: an astonishing encounter during a Congo safari

Lowland gorillas are a species of primate that lives in central Africa, in dense and humid forests. They are considered one of the most impressive and powerful great apes on the planet, with amazing muscular strength.

Lowland gorillas can weigh up to 200 kilos and stand up to 1.8 meters in height. They have very long arms and powerful hands, with prehensile fingers that allow them to climb trees with surprising ease. Their fur is thick and dense, black or gray in color.

These gorillas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, stems, fruits, and berries. They spend most of their time foraging, traveling great distances each day to find sufficient food sources.

Lowland gorillas are divided into two subspecies: eastern gorillas and western gorillas. Eastern gorillas are the most widespread, with an estimated population of around 5,000 individuals. Western gorillas, on the other hand, are critically endangered, with an estimated population of less than 5,000 individuals.

Lowland gorillas are very social animals, living in family groups led by a dominant male called the “silverback”. Groups can have up to 30 members, including females, young, and subordinate males. The groups move together in the forest, feeding and resting together.

Communication in lowland gorillas is very important, with a variety of sounds and gestures used to communicate information. Gorillas can growl, roar, scream and cough to communicate with other members of their group.

Lowland gorillas are threatened by hunting and loss of their natural habitat. Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect these gorillas, notably through the creation of nature reserves and raising public awareness of their precarious situation.

During Ducret Expeditions safari cruises in the Congo, it is possible to observe habituated gorillas which are followed by scientists. At less than ten meters, we can really realize the strength of these animals

ETHNIC GROUPS OF CONGO

Ethnie du congo croisière

The ethnic groups of the Republic of the Congo

The Republic of Congo is a country in Central Africa with an estimated population of around 5 million. The country is populated by several different ethnic groups, each with their own cultural and linguistic traditions.

The Bantu

The Bantu are the largest ethnic group in the Republic of Congo, making up around 50% of the population. They are native to Central Africa and have migrated to the region over the past centuries. The Bantu are divided into several sub-groups including the Kongo, Teke, Mbochi, Kouyou, Mboshi and Bembe.

The Kongos

The Kongo are a sub-group of the Bantu and originate from the northwest of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their rich artistic culture, including woodcarving and traditional music. The Kikongo language is spoken by the Kongo.

The Teke

The Teke are a sub-group of the Bantu and originate from the center of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their blacksmithing, woodcarving and traditional music. The Teke speak the Teke language.

The Mbochi

The Mbochi are a subgroup of the Bantu and originate from the center of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their agriculture and their work on the land. The Mbochi language is spoken by the Mbochi people.

The Kouyou

The Kouyou are a sub-group of the Bantu and originate from the north of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their blacksmithing and traditional music. The Kouyou language is spoken by the Kouyou.

The Mboshi

The Mboshi are a subgroup of the Bantus and originate from the center of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their art, woodcarving and traditional music. The Mboshi language is spoken by the Mboshi.

The Bembe

The Bembe are a sub-group of the Bantu and originate from the south-west of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their iron work and traditional music. The Bembe language is spoken by the Bembe.

The Bantu of the Republic of Congo: A rich culture inherited from ancestors

The Bantu are an ethnic group originating from Central Africa, present in several countries of the region, including the Republic of Congo. Their culture, deeply rooted in ancestral traditions, is remarkable for its richness and diversity.

The Bantus of the Republic of Congo are one of the largest ethnic groups in the country. They represent almost 48% of the Congolese population and are spread throughout the country. The Bantu have a rich and diverse culture that is shaped by their history, traditions and natural environment.

Origins and history of the ethnic groups

The Bantu originated in the Nigeria-Cameroon region, from where they migrated to central and southern Africa around 2000 years ago. Successive migrations led to the formation of different tribes and sub-groups, each with their own customs, languages and traditions.

The Bantu people of the Republic of Congo have faced many challenges throughout their history, including European colonization, civil war, and poverty. Despite this, the Bantu have been able to preserve their culture and traditions, which are reflected in their language, music, dance, crafts and cuisine.

Bantu society is based on community values, where solidarity and mutual aid are very important. The family is also at the center of social life, with a patriarchal organization. The Bantu also have great esteem for the elders, who are considered sages and holders of the collective memory.

Culture and traditions of the ethnic groups of Congo

Bantu culture is rich and diverse, with unique traditional dances, music, art and customs. The Bantu also practice traditional religious beliefs, which are often associated with nature and ancestors.

Bantu cuisine is based on staple foods such as cassava, maize, rice, and vegetables, as well as meat, fish, and fruits. Traditional dishes include fufu, a dish made from cassava or plantain, served with a soup or sauce.

Family is very important to the Bantu, with a strong family unit and an emphasis on ancestors. Marriages are often arranged and funerals are important events, with traditional ceremonies involving family and community.

 

Bantu music and dance

Bantu music and dance are very varied, with great emphasis on rhythms and melodies. Traditional instruments include guitar, tam-tam, balafon, xylophone, drum and horn. Bantu dances are often collective celebrations, which accompany important social events such as weddings, funerals or religious ceremonies.

Bantu craftsmanship

Bantu craftsmanship is rich and diversified, with know-how transmitted from generation to generation. The Bantu are famous for their woodcarving, which often depicts human or animal figures, as well as for their pottery and weaving. They also produce decorative items such as wicker baskets and beaded jewelry

Modern challenges of ethnic groups of Congo

Despite their rich culture and history, the Bantu people of the Republic of Congo face many modern challenges, such as poverty, limited access to education and health care. However, the Bantu continue to adapt and resist these challenges, preserving their culture and traditions while seeking to improve their quality of life.

Indigenous peoples (pygmies)

The Pygmies called indigenous peoples are a minority ethnic group in the Republic of Congo, representing about 1% of the population. They are considered the original inhabitants of the region and have a unique and distinct culture. The Pygmies are divided into several subgroups, including the Aka, the Baka and the Twa. In this article, we will focus on the indigenous peoples of the Republic of Congo.

The Aka are a sub-group of Pygmies originating from the equatorial forest of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their traditional music, including their polyphonic singing. The Aka language is spoken by the Aka.

The Baka are a subgroup of the Pygmies or indigenous peoples and originate from the equatorial forest of the Republic of Congo. They are known for their knowledge of the forest and their traditional way of life in harmony with nature.

The Pygmies of the Republic of Congo are mainly hunter-gatherers. They use hunting and gathering techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. They also have a deep knowledge of the plants and animals of the forest, which they use for food, healing and making tools.

Social relations in pygmy communities

The Pygmies of the Republic of Congo live in close-knit communities, where cooperation and solidarity are essential values. Decisions are made collectively and conflicts are resolved through discussion and mediation. Dance and music play an important role in their social life, with songs and dances telling the story of their people.

Pygmies and modernity

However, the traditional way of life of the Pygmies is threatened by the modernization and expansion of agriculture and forestry. In addition, access to education, health care or even the possibility of obtaining papers is often limited, which aggravates their marginalization. The Pygmies of the Republic of Congo face many challenges. Conservation initiatives have been put in place to protect their way of life and their environment, but these efforts need to be strengthened and supported by more comprehensive government policy. Pygmies must also have access to education, health and other social services to ensure their well-being and survival as a people.

Meet the ethnic groups of Congo on safari cruises

The safari cruise is a unique way to go where no one can go and meet the people who live there. As we land in the villages on the banks of the Congo and Sangha rivers, we will meet the many ethnic groups of the Congo, all of whom have cultural singularities that are still well preserved. Join our expeditions now!