1. Put safety first: The country’s consular authorities have issued repeated warnings advising against travel to areas such as Likouala and Sangha in the north, as well as border zones. Always check the latest travel advisories before your trip and adjust your plans accordingly—don’t rely solely on online travel guides.
2. Get insurance with evacuation coverage: Purchase travel insurance that includes emergency medical treatment and evacuation. Medical facilities outside Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire are very limited, and evacuation costs in case of an emergency can be very high—having insurance is a smart precaution.
3. Malaria prevention is essential: Congo (Brazzaville) is a high-risk area for malaria. Bring effective mosquito repellent and follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding preventive medication. Take extra precautions at dusk and dawn, and seek medical help quickly if you develop a fever.
4. Don’t forget your yellow fever vaccination certificate (Yellow Book): Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be checked at the border and at some entry points. Carry the original document with you—don’t rely only on a digital copy on your phone, as it might cause issues during entry.
5. Exchange money using euros: The Central African CFA franc is pegged to the euro. Bringing euro cash and exchanging it at local banks or authorised exchange services is usually the most cost-effective and transparent option. Avoid using informal street money changers.
6. Cash is king: Credit and debit card acceptance is limited, and ATMs are not widely available. Carry enough cash and keep smaller denominations for everyday purchases to avoid running into problems.
7. Drink only bottled water: Avoid raw or cold food from street vendors to reduce the risk of stomach issues. Carry basic stomach remedies just in case. Maintaining good food hygiene is important for staying healthy.
8. Ask for permission before taking photos: Avoid taking casual photos in markets, of local residents, or at checkpoints. Photography is not permitted at government offices or military facilities. If asked to stop, comply and apologise.
9. Travel with companions and avoid going out at night: For longer trips or visits outside major towns, try to travel with a reliable driver. Avoid walking alone at night and don’t display valuable items or large amounts of cash in public.
10. Voltage and phone services: The local voltage is 220V, and sockets are mainly of the European standard. To make local calls, dial +242. You can purchase a local SIM card after arrival to stay in touch.

Write these tips into a checklist before your trip and go through each item carefully—make sure your passport, visa, Yellow Book, insurance, cash, and essential medications are all in order. Also agree on how you’ll communicate and where you’ll meet up with travel companions. This can help you avoid many potential problems during your trip. Your overall experience in Congo (Brazzaville) often depends more on the quality of your preparation than on how you handle situations as they arise. The more thorough your planning, the more you’ll be able to enjoy the local sights and connect with people.