Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Pool Department

The security situation in the Pool Department has improved since the signing of a ceasefire agreement in 2017 between the government and the main rebel group active in the region.

Despite this improvement, tensions and violence, including civil unrest, can occur at any time, particularly during election periods.

Traffic is now possible on the main roads that were previously targeted by rebel groups. However, criminal and armed groups are still present in the area.

If you are traveling in the Pool Department:

• stay on Route nationale 1 (RN1)
• avoid travelling after dark
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• avoid stopping in isolated areas
• do not stop on the road to offer help to others
• be wary of strangers offering to help you

More advice on travelling to remote areas

Border area with the Central African Republic

Criminal gangs and armed militias are active along the border in the Central African Republic (CAR). Possible cross-border incursions pose risks on the Congolese side.

Border area with the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Be cautious if you’re travelling to the northern border area of the Congo along the Ubangi River, due to the prevailing insecurity in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, particularly in isolated neighbourhoods of major cities. Armed robberies can also occur in these neighbourhoods, especially at night. Thefts also occur on the beaches of Pointe-Noire.

During your stay:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• avoid walking alone after dark
• avoid isolated neighbourhoods and beaches
• walk towards the traffic so you can see the vehicles approaching
• do not resist an attack

Break-ins and burglaries at residences can occur in Brazzaville and Pointe‑Noire. Foreigners’ homes have been targeted.

• Stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
• Keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times
• Keep valuables out of sight and out of reach

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur, especially in Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, and the Pool Department. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. In the past, certain demonstrations have led to violent incidents that have resulted in deaths and injuries. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Roads

Road safety

There are major road safety issues. Fatal accidents are common and often involve pedestrians. Police and emergency services are extremely limited, or even non-existent, in rural areas.

Road conditions

Roads are generally in poor condition. Route nationale 1 and Route nationale 2 are paved, while secondary roads are not. Road conditions deteriorate significantly during the rainy seasons.

Driving can also be dangerous due to:

• the presence of many motorcycles, cyclists and pedestrians
• poorly maintained roads and potholes
• stray animals
• lack of traffic signs
• traffic jams in urban areas
• poorly maintained vehicles
• insufficient lighting and vehicles not using their headlights

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and speeding is common. Right of way is not given to pedestrians or other drivers. Drinking and driving is common.

If you choose to drive in the Republic of the Congo:

• always drive defensively
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
• consider using a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you plan to travel outside major cities
• during the rainy seasons, confirm with local authorities if your route is passable

Travelling in remote areas

Tourism infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, and gas stations, is limited outside major cities.

If you are planning to travel to remote areas:

• avoid travelling after dark outside urban areas
• keep a supply of water, food, fuel, and an emergency kit on hand
• carry spare tires
• always keep your gas tank at least half full
• bring a reliable means of communication, such as a cell phone (in areas where service is reliable), a satellite phone, or a VHF radio
• keep your mobile devices charged and carry a power bank

Roadblocks

The army and the police set up roadblocks, which are sometimes poorly marked, throughout the country.

• Always carry your identification with you and be prepared to show it
• Follow the instructions of security forces
• Remain calm and courteous

Power outages

Power outages occur throughout the country. Local authorities may limit electricity usage. Buildings are not usually equipped with generators.

Power outages could impact essential services, such as:

• the public water supply
• telecommunications
• banking transactions

Telecommunications

Cell phone coverage is generally good in major cities but may be limited outside urban areas.

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur every year. Beaches are generally unsupervised. There is no warning system to alert of unsafe conditions.

Swimming in the rapids of the Congo River and its tributaries is dangerous due to strong currents.

Public transportation

Buses

Buses and minibuses are overloaded, frequently involved in accidents and prone to theft.

Taxis and ride-sharing services

Taxi availability is limited outside city centres.

• Use only officially marked taxis, which are green and white in Brazzaville, and blue and white in Pointe-Noire
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers on the way to your destination
• Always ask the driver for identification before accepting transportation and check that it matches the name of the car registration and taxi licence
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills available for payment

Ride-sharing services are available.

• Use a trusted ride-sharing application
• Confirm the driver’s identity and licence plate before getting into the car
• Do not share your ride with another person
• Use a security feature to share your ride status with a contact

Trains

Trains are slow, overcrowded, poorly maintained and unsafe.

Ferry

A regular ferry service connects Brazzaville and Kinshasa. Accidents could occur due to overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels.

• Only use the services of a reputable company
• Make sure the appropriate safety equipment is available
• Do not board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
• You must have a valid visa to board a boat bound for the Republic of the Congo or the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Congolese law does not criminalize sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not socially accepted and 2SLGBTQI+ persons have been subject to physical and verbal harassment by the local population and authorities.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should avoid public displays of affection and carefully consider the risks of travelling to the Republic of the Congo.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robberies against ships occur in coastal waters. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy map – International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Centre

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Some countries have imposed measures in response to the Ebola disease outbreak. These can include restrictions on entry and health screening measures for travellers having recently visited an affected country. If you are suspected of having symptoms, you may be subject to isolation, quarantine and/or travel restrictions. Contact the authorities of the country you are travelling to for more details.

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from local authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Republic of the Congo.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Transit visa: required

You must obtain a visa from the Embassy of the Republic of the Congo in Ottawa before leaving Canada.

You cannot obtain a visa at ports of entry or at any Embassy of the Republic of the Congo other than the one of your country of residence.

Foreign Representatives in Canada

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities are not up to Canadian standards, including in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire. You will need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Public and private medical facilities generally require an initial cash deposit or a guarantee of payment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in the Republic of the Congo.

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the Republic of the Congo.

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

Travelling with medication

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It’s illegal to photograph:

• government buildings
• military installations
• border crossings
• transportation infrastructure, including ports, train stations and airports

Seek permission before taking photos of official buildings or individuals. 

Export

Arts and crafts are subject to an export tax that must be paid before your departure.

It’s illegal to export items of historical significance, such as wood pieces, sculptures and paintings. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail sentences.

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time. You may be detained by police if you’re unable to produce acceptable identification.

• Always carry valid photo identification and your valid visa
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa or travel permit in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your identification and travel documents

Driving

You must have an International Driving Permit along with your valid Canadian driver’s licence to drive in the Republic of the Congo. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% and penalties for drinking and driving are severe.

Traffic accidents can quickly draw large crowds. Remain calm if there is a dispute, particularly in a public place. If threatened by a large crowd, seek direct intervention from the local police.

International Driving Permit

Traffic violations

If a police officer asks you to pay a fine on the spot for a traffic violation, ask for a written copy of the ticket, which can be paid later at a local court or police station.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the Republic of the Congo.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the Republic of the Congo, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the Republic of the Congo.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Republic of the Congo by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Republic of the Congo to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Money

The currency of the Republic of the Congo is the CFA franc (XAF), also known as the Central African CFA franc.

The economy is primarily cash-based. Major hotels and stores generally accept major credit cards, as well as euros and U.S. dollars. However, you should confirm when making a reservation. Outside these establishments in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, credit cards are rarely accepted.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting the Republic of the Congo. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Rainy seasons

The rainy seasons extend from:

• September to December, then from March to May in the southern part of the country, which includes Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire
• April to October in the north

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest information, including on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders