Living in Africa, I'm continually struck by our continent's array of “once-in-a-lifetime” experiences. Just when you think you've seen it all, you find something brand new to take your breath away. For example, this year, I celebrated my birthday alongside adventurous friends in a place rarely found on the average traveller’s map: Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of the Congo. Exploring this unique landscape and its rich biodiversity was a powerful reminder of our planet’s splendour – and its fragility.
Me and my fellow explorers in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Image Credit: David Ryan
Understanding the Congo(s)
If you're planning a visit, it’s first important to understand the difference between the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). These neighbouring countries are often confused with one another. However, they have distinct and entirely unique histories and landscapes.
On the one hand, the Republic of the Congo – also known as Congo-Brazzaville – is smaller and more politically stable. On the other hand, the DRC (Congo-Kinshasa) is larger and has faced a more turbulent past. Their capitals, Brazzaville and Kinshasa, sit opposite each other across the Congo River, embodying vastly different atmospheres despite their proximity.
So, which one did we visit? The Republic of the Congo, aka Congo-Brazzaville.
Vibrancy all around in the Congo, Image Credit: David Ryan
Our Story Started in Brazzaville
We began our journey in Brazzaville, the vibrant capital city that's infused with warmth, resilience, and style. As we meandered through the bustling streets, we marvelled at the elegance of the sapeurs, Brazzaville's iconic and immaculately dressed gentlemen, each representing a modern interpretation of African culture.
I loved how this city's heritage hints at a deep cultural pride, which left us eager to return and further explore its nuances.
Striking a pose with one of the sapeurs, Image Credit: David Ryan
Into the Rainforest: Ngaga Camp
A short two-hour hop from Brazzaville to Ngaga Camp, and we seamlessly transitioned from urban exploration to immersive wilderness. This camp is set on the edge of the rainforest and is a gateway to encounters with the elusive western lowland gorillas.
Trekking through the lush green corridors of the rainforest, we were rewarded with intimate glimpses into the playful, active lives of these majestic creatures. Although there are over 300,000 lowland gorillas in the wild – many living outside protected areas – only three habituated groups reside in the Ngaga concession.
A place of stunning biological diversity, Image Credit: Ngaga Camp
I found observing the gorillas in their natural habitat to be both humbling and awe-inspiring. The tree-climbing western lowland gorillas are far more active than their mountain cousins, and while habituated, they are less accustomed to human visitors. Furthermore, their habitat, strikingly different from the mountains, holds its own powerful magic, making this experience nothing short of life-changing.
Meeting precious primates is a humbling experience, Image Credit: David Ryan
Lango Lodge: A Place of Wild Beauty
Our journey continued with a two-hour drive, an unforgettable kayaking trip, and finally, a walk up to Lango Baï and Lango Lodge, a sanctuary cradled within the vast embrace of Odzala-Kokoua National Park.
With its treehouse feel, Lango Lodge is surrounded by the enchanting beauty of Lango Baï, where we marvelled at the rich tapestry of wildlife drawn to the mineral-rich offerings of the land. From birdwatching to tracing the footsteps of elephants, every moment at Lango Lodge felt like a profound connection between man and nature.
Lango Camp was a personal favourite of mine, Image Credit: Odzala Dicovery Camps
The ethereal beauty of Lango Baï will forever stay with me. As a lifelong bird enthusiast, it was like a dream to sit in the river with a G&T in hand, staring in wonder at the flocks of African grey parrots, green pigeons, and palm-nut vultures in abundance surrounding us.
This was one of the most unique places I have ever experienced, and I would have been quite content to never leave.
Birdlife abounds, Image Credit: Lango Camp
Mboko Camp: Celebrations in the Wild
The final chapter of our eight-day expedition unfolded at Mboko Camp, the ideal setting to celebrate my birthday set against the backdrop of the Congolese wilderness. Embededd by open grasslands, winding rivers, and lush forests, Mboko Camp immersed us in the intricate rhythms of the ecosystem, where every moment held the thrill of discovery.
Each step through this biodiverse landscape revealed something remarkable – from red river hogs darting through the underbrush to forest elephants grazing quietly by the riverbanks. The ever-changing scenery offered endless surprises, bringing us closer to the pulse of this wild and untouched corner of Africa.
Lodges in the Congo offer true immersion into Africa’s most wild landscapes, Image Credit: Mboko Camp
One unforgettable highlight was witnessing my first bat hawk in action, a swift and shadowy predator cutting through the twilight as it hunted. The thrill of this rare sighting was matched only by the daring swim we took down the Likeni River to celebrate my birthday – a heart-pounding, exhilarating moment that none of us will soon forget.
Our guides, who know these waters intimately, agreed to the plunge with a smile, sharing in our spirit of wanderlust as we navigated the cool river with jungle sounds echoing around us.
Daring plunges, Image Credit: David Ryan
Mboko Lodge was the perfect finale to a life-changing journey, embodying the raw beauty and profound vulnerability of the Congo. This place, with its pristine wilderness and ancient ecosystems, is a part of our planet that everyone should witness at least once.
As I stood in that vast landscape, I was reminded of the essential connection we share with the natural world – a connection that demands protection for the sake of our shared future.
Delving deeper into the heart of Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Image Credit: David Ryan
Sustainability and Conservation at Odzala
Odzala-Kokoua National Park is a beacon for conservation in Africa. Managed by African Parks, the park works tirelessly to preserve its unique ecosystem, home to iconic species such as forest elephants, gorillas, and forest buffalo.
Through local partnerships, African Parks has created community-based programmes that not only support wildlife protection but also create sustainable livelihoods. Anti-poaching initiatives, conservation education, and wildlife monitoring are just a few ways these efforts ensure that this irreplaceable landscape remains protected for generations.
Gaze into the eyes of these magnificent primates, Image Credit: Kamba
Why Odzala Should Be on Your Travel List
Odzala offers an experience that goes beyond the typical safari. Here, you’ll connect deeply with nature and immerse yourself in one of the most biodiverse regions on earth.
Meeting the Ba’Aka people, the forest’s guardians, offers profound insight into their culture and the symbiotic relationship they share with their environment. Furthermore, walking through the rainforest – the “lungs of the earth” – provides a powerful reminder of our role in safeguarding such delicate ecosystems.
After years of helping Rhino Africa travellers craft unique journeys across the continent, I can say with conviction that Odzala-Kokoua National Park belongs on any true adventurer’s bucket list. Each day here brings new discoveries, and every step reconnects you to the wild heart of Africa.
Celebrating my birthday in the Congo was the best idea, Image Credit: David Ryan
Visit Odzala-Kokoua National Park
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Contact us today to start planning. I can't wait to hear all about your own adventures!
