Tourism in Congo-Brazzaville

The Republic of Congo, commonly known as Congo-Brazzaville, has significant tourism potential thanks to its exceptional natural landscapes and rich cultural diversity. This Central African country attracts many tourists, although this sector is struggling to develop.

The tourism sector in Congo-Brazzaville

Tourism in Congo began to become more formally structured in the 1990s. The development of this sector was somewhat hampered by periods of political instability and armed conflicts. Several factors, including the country's natural wealth and many economic assets, have favored this development. Over the years, the country has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central Africa.
Although still developing, the tourism sector in the Republic of Congo plays a growing role in the country's economy by generating direct and indirect jobs in areas such as hotels, restaurants, transport, local crafts, etc. Its contribution to employment represents approximately 4.5% of total employment, or more than 60,000 jobs. Also, the growth of tourism attracts foreign investment, particularly in the construction of tourist infrastructure, which stimulates the local economy.
In 2024, the tourism sector in Congo-Brazzaville contributes 2.5%, or approximately 208 million euros, to the Congolese GDP.

The main tourist sites in Congo-Brazzaville

One of the main tourist attractions of Congo-Brazzaville is undoubtedly its set of national parks, true jewels of biodiversity.
The Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, located in the north of the country and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the largest virgin tropical forest ecosystems in Central Africa. It is home to unique fauna and flora, including the population of western lowland gorillas. Visitors can observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat.
Odzala-Kokoua National Park, one of the oldest parks in Africa, is renowned for its biodiversity, including bird, mammal and primate species. The park also offers wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes ranging from tropical forests to savannahs.

The Loufoulakari Falls, located about 80 km from the country’s capital, Brazzaville, is a natural beauty spot where the Loufoulakari River flows into the Congo River. This location remains a popular day trip destination from the capital.
The capital itself is a hub of attraction, with sites such as the Sainte-Anne Basilica, the Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Mausoleum, the twin towers, Zolandia Zoo, Total Market, etc. Brazzaville offers a great insight into Congolese daily life and culture.
In addition to its national parks and natural wealth, Congo-Brazzaville also attracts visitors thanks to its diverse and tradition-rich culture, a true crossroads of cultures. The country has more than 60 ethnic groups, each contributing a mosaic of traditions, languages ​​and practices. Congolese music is an integral part of this culture that even influences the African music scene. Crafts, with wood carvings, pottery and ritual masks, reflect the identity of the different ethnic groups. Local cuisine, marked by dishes such as saka-saka and mouambe (moambé) are very popular with most visitors who discover a unique culinary culture. Finally, traditional festivals and ceremonies such as FESPAM are among the events that attract many visitors.

Congo-Brazzaville, a land of natural and cultural wealth, reveals its soul to those who take the time to discover it. However, it is appropriate to ask how this country can capitalize on its natural and cultural wealth to become an essential destination in Central Africa, while ensuring sustainable and environmentally friendly development?