In the north-west of the Republic of Congo, the Odzala-Kokoua National Park will delight nature lovers. It is part of the Congo Basin, the second largest tropical forest in the world after the Amazon. It is home to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, with more than 4,400 plant species, over 100 mammals and around 450 bird specimens. It is home to the world's largest population of western lowland gorillas, as well as almost 20% of Africa's forest elephants. You'll also come across forest buffalo, spotted hyena, bongo (a species of antelope found in Central Africa), chimpanzee and leopard, among other fierce animals. This remote region, little known to tourists, invites you to enjoy unique experiences in the heart of unspoilt wilderness.
Managed by Kamba African Rainforest Experiences, three lodges welcome privileged tourists for wilderness immersions in one of Africa's oldest parks. The only private operator to operate in the park, it offers a range of fascinating itineraries and activities that can be customized to suit individual tastes. From the colorful markets of Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, to tracking gorillas and elephants and kayaking down the river, you'll experience extraordinary adventures that respect the environment. Kamba African Rainforest Experiences supports primatology research and conservation, while developing sustainable tourism in the region that benefits the local population.
Ngaga, an unforgettable encounter with gorillas
Immediate boarding from Brazzaville, aboard a private plane to the Ngaga lodge, located in the Ndzehi concession, in the heart of the primary forest. Behind the window, the forest stretches beyond the horizon, pierced in places by pale green plains. The arrival on Mboko's private airstrip is very smooth. As soon as you set foot on the tarmac, you breathe in the pure but humid jungle air. The adventure begins in a Land Cruiser through the dirt roads of the savannah and rainforest, passing through the village of Mbomo to reach Ngaga two hours later. With its six comfortable bungalows lost deep in the forest, the lodge offers an intimate experience in the heart of unspoilt nature. From the terrace nestled in the trees, coffee in hand, you'll have a front-row seat to observe the monkeys and myriad birds that inhabit the forest. Early in the morning, you'll experience an exceptional adventure that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
In a small group, accompanied by an experienced guide and tracker, you'll make your way through the dense paths of the rainforest to meet the gorillas, which are very present in the Ndzehi concession. You'll be amazed when you catch your first glimpse of these imposing silver-backed primates waving in the trees! In the afternoon, set off to meet the inhabitants of Ombo village, who have lived in the heart of the Congo Basin for generations. You'll have the chance to talk to the village chief and learn more about their culture and traditions. After an emotionally-charged day, let yourself be tempted by an aperitif among the trees, with your feet in the water, for a moment of total disconnection in the heart of nature.
Lango, an adventure in the heart of the baï
Lango is reached after a remarkable 2-hour kayak trip across the river and a hike in the baï, a typical wetland and marshland of the Congo Basin. The lodge is one of the most exceptional in Africa, suspended over a wide clearing frequented by elephants and forest buffalo, among other species that come to enjoy the mineral-rich waters. Panoramic walkways link the 6 luxurious bungalows with their raffia roofs and main structure, which blend perfectly with the lush landscape. From your terrace overlooking the baï, you can observe a plethora of birds, including the famous African grey parrots and green pigeons. In small groups in the forest, follow elephant footprints along streams and marshes, your shoes wet and muddy before drying on a stroll under majestic cheese trees.
Or would you prefer to head off into the jungle to pick fruit for dessert? Lime Island will tantalize your nostrils with its sweet, fragrant air, before the chef delights your taste buds at dinner with his delicious lime cheesecake. In the evening, tucked up by the fire, you'll enjoy locally inspired cuisine, while contemplating the nocturnal wildlife. The following day, you'll head into the dense forest with a local guide to observe birds, chimpanzees and other animals, while discovering exceptional flora. As the sun sets, you'll be served an aperitif in the heart of the baï - what more could you ask for?
Mboko, exceptional moments at the water's edge
Located in the southern half of the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, at the crossroads of savannah and forest, the Mboko lodge plunges you into the heart of the astonishing diversity of the Congolese ecosystem.
Here, hyenas run through the grasslands, monkeys leap from tree to tree and numerous birds live in the park. Waterways flow through lush rainforest, home to rare wildlife. By kayak, you'll discover fascinating landscapes and have the chance to observe all kinds of animals, including elephants grazing on the banks and chimpanzees waving in the trees. The spectacle is just as beautiful in the late afternoon as you cruise up the Lekoni River in a motorboat, glass of local gin in hand. Here, a peaceful herd of forest buffalo looks on intrigued, there beautiful birds fly overhead, then forest elephants drink from the river, you're in for a real treat!
Arriving at the Mboko camp, you are accommodated in spacious, canvas-covered bungalows beneath lush green trees on the banks of the Likeni stream. From the main dining pavilion, you can enjoy an exceptional view of the savannah, dotted with impressive termite mounds.
Against the backdrop of this remarkable setting, you can enjoy refined cuisine concocted with local produce. And before you're lulled to sleep by the sounds of the night, why not set off on a nocturnal exploration? On foot, you'll discover the forest through different eyes, listening to the sound of insects and the flickering light of fireflies. In a Land Cruiser, you'll be on the lookout for the twinkling eyes of mysterious animals in the dark. Magical moments before falling into the arms of Morpheus.
A rainforest marathon
Every September, Kamba African Rainforest Experiences organizes an enchanting run in the heart of the Odzala-Kokoua National Park.
Limited to 50 people, it invites you to an incredible immersion in one of the world's richest ecosystems. Known as Odzala 33 when it was first created, this race, originally 33 km long, will become a marathon in 2024. Departing from Lango lodge, the ZAGG marathon traverses the park's wilderness trails to the village of Mbomo, via Mboko lodge. Along the way, runners enjoy the beauty of untouched landscapes, while breathing pure air, often perfumed by flora endemic to the Congo Basin. The prize-giving ceremony is a real party, enlivened by local music. People laugh, exchange ideas and share experiences in a warm and friendly atmosphere, before awarding the prize to the best runner of the ZAGG marathon, proudly holding up the trophy. The other participants are just as happy to have been able to take part in this race organized in the heart of one of the world's most beautiful national parks.
FUTURE INFO
Where?
The Congolese forest lives to the rhythm of two seasons. The dry season runs from December to March and from June to September.
Temperatures hover around 26°C, with little rain and low humidity.
The rainy season extends from April to June and from September to November. Temperatures are higher, and rain is abundant and frequent, but short-lived. However, Kamba's lodges are accessible all year round, offering beautiful wildlife spectacles whatever the season.
Duration
Kamba offers several stays in the heart of the Odzala-Kokoua National Park to follow in the footsteps of the great explorers of the Congo Basin. Duration varies from 7 to 12 nights, depending on the itinerary.
Budget
Return airfares from Paris to Brazzaville range from €850 to €1,500. A 7-night stay in Odzala National Park costs around €13,200 per person.
Public
Kamba holidays are designed for people over 16 years of age in good physical condition. Visitors must be able to walk at a normal pace for 8 km, for at least two hours at a time.
Highlights
+ Unspoilt wilderness with rich biodiversity.
+ A variety of activities for unique experiences in the heart of the Congo Basin.
+ Intimate lodges that blend harmoniously into the environment, run by competent, friendly staff.
Negatives
- High temperatures and high humidity. Occasional heavy rains cool the atmosphere.
- Uneven terrain and swampy areas.
Getting there
From Charles de Gaulle airport, Air France operates direct flights to Brazzaville several times a week. The airline also offers flights with a stopover in Kinshasa. A direct flight takes around 8 h 30.
Useful
A visa is required for travel to the Republic of Congo, in addition to a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of arrival. You need to apply for a visa at least 4 weeks before your visit, at the Congolese embassy in Paris. A letter of invitation is provided by the Kamba operator. Yellow fever vaccination is compulsory.
Contact
KAMBA AFRICAN RAINFOREST EXPERIENCES - More information on the website
WhatsApp : +27 64 142 6881
MARATHON SITE - More information on the site
