Recommendations

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Recommendations before the trip

Mobile connection and internet

SIM cards can be purchased directly at the airport or in the city (recommended networks: Airtel Congo, MTN Congo). A passport is required to register a SIM. 4G is available in larger cities, but the signal outside the cities fluctuates significantly. Higher-end hotels offer free Wi-Fi, but the speed may be limited.

The best alternative is to buy an e-sim card online, which will provide good coverage almost throughout the country.

Currency and payments

Currency: CFA franc (XAF) €1 ≈ 655 XAF (fixed exchange rate) Card payment is only possible in larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is preferred. ATMs are only available in larger cities (Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire). It is recommended to bring cash in euros or USD and exchange it at an authorized exchange office.

Health and vaccinations

  • Mandatory vaccinations: yellow fever (document checked upon entry)
  • Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, tetanus, rabies Malaria is present, prophylaxis is recommended (e.g. Malarone).
  • Do not drink tap water, consume only bottled water.
  • Travel insurance with repatriation coverage is essential.

Recommended travel equipment

  • Light and breathable clothing (humid climate)
  • Sturdy outdoor shoes, raincoat
  • First aid kit, insect repellent, antibacterial gel
  • Copy of passport and visa (keep separate from the original)
  • Backup batteries or power banks

Health and safety recommendations

  • In case of injury or illness, quality medical services are available, especially in Brazzaville. (Recommended: Clinique Guenin)
  • The security situation is stable, but it is recommended to travel with a local guide outside of tourist areas.
  • Always carry your travel document with you - checks are common, especially at airports, roads and border crossings.

Behavior and customs (cultural etiquette)

  • Always greet each other first. Respect and courtesy are important in Congolese culture — greetings are essential.
  • Do not use your left hand when handing things over, it is perceived as impolite.
  • Always ask permission when taking photos of people. Some people may find taking photos offensive or an invasion of privacy.
  • Being late is common. The term "time" has a more flexible meaning, especially outside of formal business meetings.

What to avoid

Like any other country, the Republic of Congo has its own set of laws and regulations. Ignorance of them does not absolve you of responsibility if you are ever caught doing something you shouldn't. Please follow this short list of rules to make your trip to Congo safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free.

It is not allowed to bring

  • Firearms, ammunition
  • Pornographic materials
  • Water hyacinths

Prohibited behavior

  • Photographing military/police personnel
  • Homosexuality, while not explicitly prohibited, can attract unwanted attention and even harassment.

What to watch out for

  • Internal conflicts in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo do not have a direct impact, but in border areas (especially on the Congo River) only move with a guide.
  • Traveling at night outside of cities is not recommended.
  • Do not photograph military facilities, customs offices, airports, or government buildings - you risk confiscation of equipment and a fine.
  • Avoid discussing politics, especially in public or in front of local officials.

100 XAF

USD0.1712
EUR0.1524
GBP0.1284
CHF0.1412

Brazzaville, CG

05:24
24°C, Broken clouds
89 %, 1012 mb, 1 m/s

Local time

09:50:55
October 20, 2026