Republic of the Congo Safaris: Gorillas & Congo Basin Wildlife
Far from the tourist trails, the Republic of the Congo offers a raw, untamed safari experience unlike anywhere else in Africa. This hidden gem in Central Africa is one of the last true wildernesses, where lush rainforests stretch for miles and nature thrives in magnificent abundance.
The Republic of the Congo offers a rare opportunity to explore the Congo Basin, one of Africa’s most important rainforest regions. At the heart of its safari experience is Odzala-Kokoua National Park, where dense rainforest, open savannahs, rivers and forest clearings support an exceptional diversity of wildlife. Safaris can include tracking Western Lowland Gorillas, guided forest walks, wildlife and birdwatching, kayaking and river cruises.
With small, remote lodges and experienced guides, a safari in the Republic of the Congo provides an immersive way to discover Central Africa’s forests and wildlife away from more established safari destinations..
This is a destination for those who seek the extraordinary, the secluded, and the wild.
Ready to discover the Republic of the Congo?
Contact our expert travel consultants to start planning your once-in-a-lifetime safari. We offer a carefully curated selection of tours that unlock the beauty, biodiversity, and magic of this remarkable country.
Our favourite Republic of Congo Tours
Experience a truly unique and magnificent wilderness adventure with a visit to the Congo Basin in The Republic of the Congo.  This destination is off the usual tourist map and is one of the most remote places on Earth.  Experience the world’s second largest rainforest which is home to more than 400 species of mammals — including the critically endangered Western Lowland Gorilla — 1,000 bird species and 10,000 plant species.
Republic of Congo Safari Camps & Lodges
With just 3 private lodges located in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, the visitor experience is exceptional. Â The park is home to the endangered Western Lowland Gorilla, Chimpanzee, Forest Elephants, Forest Buffalo, Spotted Hyena and Bongo to name just a few. Â Birdlife is also abundant with over 1,000 species living in this area.
Everything You Need To Know Before You Go
Get essential details about getting there, Visas, what to pack, and travel tips to make your safari seamless.
Talk to a Specialist
Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.
Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari to Republic of Congo..
Kenya
North America & Canada
North America & Canada
North America
UK & Europe
South America
Australia
India
Kenya
Head Office in Nairobi
We have an experienced team of Safari Consultants based in Kenya.
You can email our Nairobi team here or call at +254-722-509-200.
North America & Canada
Rick Mcintyre
Hello, I’m Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I’ve journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you’re dreaming of a “once in a lifetime” vacation or you’re a seasoned safari traveler, I’m here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we’ll make your African dreams a reality.
North America & Canada
Rachel Chambers
Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!.
You can reach me by email at rae@gamewatchers.com
North America
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I’m Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I’m here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let’s embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.
UK & Europe
Tom Mees
Jambo, I’m Tommy Mees, most people call me Tom.
My connection with Africa began through years of travelling across the continent.
I later spent more than twelve years managing safari camps and lodges while supporting conservation initiatives including beekeeping and tree-planting projects.
Having travelled extensively throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic wilderness experiences and the conservation-focused approach of the Porini Camps.
I am originally from Belgium and now based in Spain, though my heart has always remained in Africa.
Alongside my safari background, I am also a professional photographer and enjoy helping travellers experience and capture the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultures that make Africa so special.
If you are considering an African safari, feel free to contact me at tom@gamewatchers.comÂ
South America
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul.
If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com
Australia
Kristy Thomson
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call on +61 419 175 672.
India
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or call on +91 801 788 5256.
FAQs — Republic of Congo Safaris
Yes, the Republic of the Congo can be visited safely with a well-planned itinerary and experienced local guides and operators. Most safari travel takes place in remote protected areas such as Odzala-Kokoua National Park, with arrangements made in advance for accommodation, internal flights, transfers and activities. We plan the practical details of your journey carefully and can advise you on the latest travel information before you depart. Read our Republic of the Congo travel information for more information before travelling.
The Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are two different countries in Central Africa, separated in part by the Congo River. The Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, is home to Odzala-Kokoua National Park, one of Africa's important rainforest destinations and a stronghold for Western Lowland Gorillas. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Kinshasa, is a separate country and is not the destination described on this page.
The Republic of the Congo offers the opportunity to see a remarkable range of Central African rainforest wildlife. In Odzala-Kokoua National Park, highlights include Western Lowland Gorillas, forest elephants, forest buffalo, sitatunga, monkeys and a wide variety of birdlife. Wildlife viewing in the rainforest is different from a traditional savannah safari, with the dense forest creating a more immersive and exploratory experience.
Yes. Gorilla trekking is one of the main reasons to visit Odzala-Kokoua National Park. Visitors can trek through the rainforest with experienced trackers and guides to spend time observing habituated groups of Western Lowland Gorillas in their natural environment. Gorilla trekking is carefully managed, with limits on the number of visitors and the time spent with the gorillas to help minimise disturbance.
The Republic of the Congo can be visited at different times of year, but conditions vary depending on the season and the activities you want to experience. The drier periods can make forest walking and wildlife viewing more comfortable, while the rainforest remains lush throughout the year. The best time for your safari depends on your priorities, including gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing, birdwatching and exploring the rainforest. We can advise on the most suitable travel dates when planning your itinerary. Read our Best times to visit the Republic of the Congo for more information.
Most international journeys to Odzala-Kokoua National Park begin by flying into Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo. From Brazzaville, guests travel by light aircraft to the park, followed by transfers to their chosen lodge. Because Odzala-Kokoua National Park is a remote rainforest destination, internal flights and transfers form an important part of the safari arrangements. We organise these logistics as part of your safari itinerary. Read our Republic of the Congo travel information for more practical information before you travel.
We recommend allowing at least a week for a Republic of the Congo safari, particularly if you want to experience different habitats and activities within Odzala-Kokoua National Park. A longer stay allows more time for gorilla trekking, forest walks, wildlife viewing and exploring the park's different landscapes and lodges. The ideal length depends on your interests and how you plan to combine the Republic of the Congo with other African destinations.
There is much more to experience in Odzala-Kokoua National Park beyond gorilla trekking. Depending on your itinerary and lodge, activities can include guided forest walks, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, kayaking, river cruises and exploring the rainforest's baïs and wetlands. These activities offer different ways to experience the Congo Basin ecosystem and its wildlife.
