Numerous world-class hotels and budget accommodations are available in Brazzaville. Don’t consider the city as just a pitstop for the Odzala-Kokoua National Forest. Spend at least a couple of days here, and enjoy your evening walks by the mighty Congo River. Pay a visit to the numerous cathedrals and museums in the city, stuff yourself with lip-smacking food, and leave Brazzaville with a contented heart.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers in Brazzaville – FAQs
Why Should I Get Trip Cancellation Insurance for My Brazzaville Travel?
If you are traveling to the Republic of Congo, you will need to book several flights, hotel accommodations, and tour guides ahead of time. These expenses are typically nonrefundable. If you have to cancel your trip due to an illness, emergency, or any other reason, you would likely not be entitled to a refund from your airline, hotel, or tour provider.
In order to help you recoup your expenses, be sure to have trip cancellation insurance. It can allow you to be reimbursed for your nonrefundable, prepaid travel expenses if you must cancel your trip to Brazzaville for a covered reason.
What Should I Look for in My Brazzaville Trip Cancellation Insurance?
This insurance policy should cover the majority of situations that may cause a financial shortfall surrounding your trip. Look for a travel insurance policy with the following coverages:
- Trip cancellation
- Travel delay
- Trip interruption
- Emergency medical care
- The option to cancel for any reason
Once you are satisfied with the coverage available, buy the travel insurance policy.
Brazzaville’s Most Popular Places for Travel
Filled with historical architecture, art galleries, and vibrant markets, Brazzaville has a lot to keep you engaged. Check out these must-visit sites in the city.
Basilica of Saint Anne of the Congo
Constructed in 1943 and consecrated in 1949, the Basilica of Saint Anne of the Congo dates back to the days of “Free France” during World War II. It stood as a symbol of the French resistance under Charles de Gaulle against the forces of Adolf Hitler.
The striking emerald-green tiles are as eye-catching as the exquisitely carved copper doors. If you are here on a Sunday, you may attend the main mass.
Congo River Boat Ride
It’s a wonderful experience to take a boat ride on the ambling Congo River, especially at sunset. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views. Enjoy the gentle breeze and put your mind to rest, and don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, on the other bank of Africa’s second-longest river.
The Rapids
These rapids are present at the confluence of the Djoue and Congo Rivers. They are a visual treat, especially for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. Lionhearted locals perform various stunts here. You can take their photos and videos as much as you want, but please don’t try to emulate them!
There is a nice bar nearby called Site Touristique Les Rapides. Once you have had your fill of watching the rapids from up close, drop in here. Savor exotic and authentic Congolese cuisine here, and wash it down with some cold beer.
Le Marche de Poto Poto
This is one of the largest markets in the city. Besides the native Congolese, many immigrants from countries like Chad, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria have set up shop here. You can buy a range of souvenirs, each representing African culture and exquisite folk art.
Lesio-Louna Natural Gorilla Reserve
You can make a day trip to this natural reserve. This place serves as a rehabilitation center for orphaned gorillas, and also adults that poachers targeted. The gorillas here relearn their natural ways of living and foraging. Catch them playing around and maybe trying to check out your vehicle!
You can also spend a night here. In addition to seeing more gorillas, you could indulge in some boating and hiking.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Brazzaville
Brazzaville is as safe a city as any in the developed world. The authorities take a lot of care to implement strict security measures. By and large, the Congolese are tourist-friendly, but antisocial elements do operate here, just as they do in many other cities. Observe some basic safety measures while you are in Brazzaville.
Keep Your Belongings Safe
Pickpockets operate in crowded areas of the city, so it is better that you keep your money in a money belt, instead of a wallet. Don’t flash your jewelry, expensive gadgets, or other valuables in public. Avoid traveling through deserted areas of Brazzaville at night.
Be Careful on Public Transport
The roads in Brazzaville are well-maintained, and intracity bus services are available. But, it is better that you avoid the crowded buses for security reasons. Opt for the green-and-white taxis in Brazzaville for travel within the city. The taxis are unmetered, so negotiate the fare beforehand.
Stay Away from Demonstrations
Of late, there haven’t been too many cases of terrorism in Brazzaville. But the neighboring country of the Democratic Republic of Congo does experience frequent civil unrest, and this might spill over into Brazzaville. In the event of a public demonstration or protest march, vacate the area immediately.
Beware of Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are a menace in most parts of the country, and they abound in Brazzaville as well. Always carry mosquito repellent with you. If you are traveling out of the city to forested areas on day trips, try wearing clothes that cover most parts of your body. This will act as additional protection against mosquitoes.
Don’t Take Photographs at Random
Always ask for permission from locals before you photograph them. The Congolese are amiable by nature, but they consider being photographed without permission as a sign of intrusion upon privacy. Also, be careful not to photograph government, military, or police installations, as this can land you in serious trouble.
Before You Travel to Brazzaville - Do This
- Diseases like travelers’ diarrhea are common in the Republic of Congo. Be sure to pack medicines like Azithromycin or Suprax.
- Sunburns can occur quickly, especially during the summer months. You must include sunscreen in your luggage.
- Carry the contact details of your country’s embassy in Brazzaville. If your country doesn’t have an embassy in the Republic of Congo, then you should have the details of the nearest embassy to your location.
- Insurance is essential. Do your research, compare policies, and get the best travel insurance for your trip to Brazzaville.