Central African Republic Essentials Tour

DESCRIPTION

Landlocked in the heart of Africa, the Central African Republic (CAR) is a land rarely reached by travellers and almost entirely absent from conventional guidebooks. Remote, complex and often misunderstood, it is a country defined by its uncharted rivers, dense forest and incredible wildlife – a frontier where tourism remains almost entirely absent.

This short yet substantial journey offers a rare insight into one of the continent’s least understood nations.

Beginning in Bangui, we’ll trace the course of the Ubangi River, stroll through market, and visit the Boganda Museum and Bangui Cathedral,a French Gothic relic standing stoically in the tropical heat. A boat trip along the Ubangi will offer you a moment of calm, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo just across the water.

Beyond the capital, we’ll head north to the Boali Falls, where the raw power of nature breaks the silence, and south to Mbaiki, home to small pygmy communities living much as they have for generations. Spending time here offers a rare window into their traditions, daily routines and music.

It’s a trip that’s part exploration, part encounter, a vivid glimpse into a country rarely seen by outsiders.

This trip pairs perfectly with our Untamed Gabon Adventure (2795€) and São Tomé & Príncipe Tour (1495€) for a deeper exploration of the region. Combine all three as our CAR, Gabon & São Tomé – Along the Equator Tour (4995€) and enjoy greater savings.

ITINERARY

Sunday 22nd February – Bangui (CAR)

Arrive in Bangui at your own convenience. Bangui, the capital and largest city of CAR, is connected to Paris and Istanbul, as well as many African cities (Casablanca, Johannesburg…).
After clearing immigration and customs, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in the city centre.
A pre-tour meeting will be held at 6:00pm in the lobby of our hotel to discuss the tour itinerary and to meet your fellow travellers and YPT guide.
We’ll head out for dinner and drinks at a local restaurant to sample some delicious cuisine.
Overnight stay in Bangui.

Monday 23rd February – Bangui – Boali Falls – Bangui

After breakfast, we leave Bangui for a drive north to Boali Falls, around 50 kilometres from the capital. The falls are among the most impressive natural sights in the country, and we’ll spend time exploring the area on foot.
We’ll have lunch nearby while taking in the sound and spray of the cascading Mbali River.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, we will return to Bangui for a boat trip on the Ubangi River, the natural border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. From the water, we’ll see local fishermen at work and watch the sun dip over one of Africa’s great rivers.
Overnight in Bangui.

Tuesday 24th February – Bangui – Mbaiki – Bangui

After breakfast, we wille head south towards Mbaiki, a small town surrounded by dense rainforest. We’ll visit a nearby pygmy village, learning about local traditions, daily life and community music. The experience offers a rare glimpse into one of Central Africa’s oldest cultures.

Afternoon

Back in Bangui, we’ll explore some of the capital’s key landmarks, including the Bangui Cathedral, an unexpected piece of French Gothic architecture in the tropics, and the Boganda National Museum, which offers insight into the country’s pre-colonial heritage and independence struggle.
We’ll also wander through the Central Market, where bright textiles, handcrafts and produce line the narrow aisles.
Overnight in Bangui.

Wednesday 25th February – Bangui

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for international departures.
If you’re joining our Untamed Gabon Adventure, we’ll take the10:45am Afrijet flight to Libreville
End of tour.

GALLERY