The best time to visit the Congo is dependant on the area of the country you are wishing to travel to, but either between May and September or between January and February. The climate in the Congo is generally equatorial and consistent, but there are some variations between the northern and southern regions to bear in mind.
In the southern section of the Republic of Congo near the capital of Brazzaville for example, daily temperatures may fluctuate anywhere between 20 and 30°c, although it does tend to be slightly cooler in the long dry season in the middle of the year, making it more advisable to travel then. Further north, however, we see the seasons reverse, with the wetter months generally known to be between April and October.
In general, the calendar year can be divided into the four following seasons that can be used as a rough guide when planning your trip. If heading to the area in and around Brazzaville and the southern parts of the country you should aim for travel in the long dry season between May and September, whilst the north is best visited in the short dry season between January and February.
The month of January occurs during the brief dry season of the nation, when daytime highs range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24–30°C). Since the humidity is lower than during the rainier months, it is a pleasant time to go exploring. For lovers of animals, the dry season is fantastic. You can go on safari in national parks like Odzala-Kokoua and Nouabalé-Ndoki, where you'll get the opportunity to see a variety of animals, such as forest elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and other bird species. Around water sources, wildlife gathers, making for pleasant sightings.
This period is known as a short dry season and is an ideal time to visit the north, when road conditions are more favourable.
This shorter rainy season is less ideal for those planning to visit the rainforests, and those who decide to visit during this time should pack with rainy conditions in mind.
Generally perceived as the best time to visit the south, this is the longer dry season when it is easier to visit. In the north however these are some of the wettest months so when you visit will depend on which areas you wish to see.
A longer rainy season, this is less ideal for those visiting the southern region, but in the north the rain starts to subside, entering a drier period in the new year.
The safari of choice for primate enthusiasts, this epic journey will give you the chance to track both mountain gorillas and western lowland gorillas on six separate trekking excursions (with the possibility of a seventh trek added in for good measure).
From 29250 per person
Located in the north-west region of the Republic of the Congo, discover two unique camps inside the pristine Odzala-Kokoua National Park, and a third on a private concession bordering the national park. This is a lowland rainforest characterised by a network of bais, rivers, marshes and swamps. This vast and truly wild region, with its wide range of landscapes and habitat, is home to an incredible diversity of life. Forest elephant, leopard, bongo, forest buffalo, giant forest hog and hippo live alongside the greatest density of western lowland gorilla in Africa.
From 15500 per person
Located in the north-west region of the Republic of the Congo, discover two unique camps inside the pristine Odzala-Kokoua National Park, and a third on a private concession bordering the national park. This is a lowland rainforest characterised by a network of bais, rivers, marshes and swamps. This vast and truly wild region, with its wide range of landscapes and habitat, is home to an incredible diversity of life. Forest elephant, leopard, bongo, forest buffalo, giant forest hog and hippo live alongside the greatest density of western lowland gorilla in Africa.
From 22088 per personDiscover the diverse wildlife of Odzala-Kokoua National Park, which is home to forest elephants, buffalo, and several primate species. Explore the marshes and savannas by taking guided hikes and boat rides.
Take a tour of the city's bustling markets, historic buildings from the colonial era, and cultural landmarks like the Basilique Sainte-Anne and the Poto-Poto School of Painting.
In this coastal national park, see wildlife up close and enjoy the pristine beaches while looking out for sea turtles, chimpanzees, and forest elephants.
Experience the local way of life and the river's many ecosystems by taking a boat trip down the Congo River, one of Africa's major waterways.
Discover this special place where the jungle and the ocean converge. Enjoy seeing animals, including elephants on the beach, and engaging in water sports like fishing and kayaking.
