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A hippo swims down the Congo

© Creative Commons / Peter Harrison

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Republic of Congo Local time

Getting Around Republic Congo

Air: 

The national airline, Lina Congo (GC), operates regular services from Brazzaville to Pointe-Noire, with stops in Loubomo and Ouesso. Private charters are available.

Departure tax: 

XAF3,400.

Side of road: 
Right
Road quality: 

Roads are mostly earth tracks, sandy in dry season and impassable in the wet, suitable for 4-wheel drive vehicles only.

There are around 1,200km (750 miles) of paved roads.

Poorly marked army checkpoints, often manned by undisciplined soldiers, exist throughout the country.

Car hire: 

Car hire: There are several car hire firms represented in Brazzaville, lists of which can be obtained from main hotels.

Documentation: 

Documentation: An International Driving Permit is required.

Getting around towns and cities: 

Brazzaville has a minibus and taxi service. Taxis are also available in Pointe-Noire and Loubomo. Taxi fares have a flat rate and fares should be agreed beforehand.

Rail: 

Congo-Océan railway company operates services between Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire (journey time - up to 3 days). Known as the 'Peace Train', this service endured a long suspension due to civil war, and still incurs occasional disruptions. Services between Mbinda and Pointe-Noire are also due to resume soon. Advance booking is recommended.

By water: 

Inland steamers ply from Brazzaville up the Congo and Ubangi. Rivers are vital to internal transport.

Recommended Sites:

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