Central African Republic 5 Day Itinerary

Central African Republic 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bangui

  • Arrival: Arrive at Bangui M’Poko International Airport (BGF)
  • Accommodation: Check-in at a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Ledger Plaza or Hotel du Centre
  • Afternoon: Explore the city market, Marché Central, to get a feel for local culture and shop for souvenirs
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Le Relais des Chasses, serving traditional Central African cuisine

Day 2: Bangui and its surroundings

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum (Musée National) to learn about the country’s history and culture
  • Afternoon: Take a boat trip on the Ubangi River to see the city from a different perspective
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local bar, such as Bar Le Bamboutos, with live music and cold beer

Day 3: Dzanga-Sangha National Park

  • Morning: Fly to Bayanga (BAY) and transfer to Dzanga-Sangha National Park
  • Afternoon: Go on a guided forest hike to spot lowland gorillas, elephants, and other wildlife
  • Evening: Overnight at a lodge within the park, such as Sangha Lodge or Dzanga Lodge

Day 4: Manova-Gounda St. Floris National Park

  • Morning: Fly to N’Délé (NDR) and transfer to Manova-Gounda St. Floris National Park
  • Afternoon: Take a guided game drive to spot antelopes, buffaloes, and other wildlife
  • Evening: Overnight at a lodge within the park, such as Gounda Camp or Manova Lodge

Day 5: Return to Bangui

  • Morning: Fly back to Bangui (BGF)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Grand Mosque of Bangui, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant and depart from Bangui M’Poko International Airport

Things to Know

  • The Central African Republic is a French-speaking country, so it’s helpful to know some basic French phrases.
  • The country has experienced instability in the past, so it’s essential to check the current travel advisory before planning your trip.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with indigenous communities.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa requirements vary depending on nationality. Check with the Central African Republic embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.
  • A valid passport is required, and it’s recommended to have at least six months’ validity from the date of entry.

Transportation

  • Flights: Book flights through local airlines, such as Compagnie Africaine d’Aviation (CAA) or Karibu Airways.
  • Road transport: Hire a 4x4 vehicle with a driver for long-distance travel. Be prepared for rough roads and limited infrastructure.
  • Boat trips: Use authorized boat operators for river trips.

Health and Safety

  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about required vaccinations, such as yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid.
  • Malaria: The Central African Republic is a high-risk malaria zone. Take necessary precautions, including using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.
  • Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen to protect against the sun.

Currency

  • The official currency is the Central African CFA franc (XAF).
  • Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s recommended to bring cash or exchange money upon arrival.

Other Tips

  • Respect local environments and wildlife by not littering and keeping a safe distance from animals.
  • Bring a portable power bank to keep your devices charged, as electricity supply can be unreliable.
  • Be prepared for limited internet access and intermittent phone signal.