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Affordable Congo River Cruise

Duration
9 days
Price
£3,813 pp.
Location
Republic of the Congo, Africa
Princess N Galessa ship in the water

Trip Highlights

  • Sail the Congo River
  • Visit remote indigenous villages
  • Trek Congo’s jungles to see gorillas

What's Included

  • Expert local guides
  • Daily excursions
  • 8 nights accommodation

Congo river journey

Discover the magic of the Congo as you witness ancient ceremonies, explore floating villages, and encounter gorillas in their natural habitat at the Lésio Louna Sanctuary.

This unforgettable journey takes you deep into the heart of the Congo, where ancient traditions and untouched landscapes await. Start in Brazzaville with a guided city tour, before setting off on a river cruise through one of Africa’s most remote regions. Along the way, experience different local cultures, from the Téké Kingdom’s rituals to the fishing traditions of Mossaka.

As you sail upstream, enjoy opportunities to spot incredible wildlife, including hippos and diverse birdlife, and take part in unique experiences such as crocodile hunting and a visit to the Lésio Louna Gorilla Sanctuary. This trip offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and wildlife adventure, making it the ultimate Congo River experience.


Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Brazzaville

Upon arrival in Brazzaville, meet your guide at the airport for a transfer to the boat. Settle into your cabin and get acquainted with the ship’s amenities as you prepare for the journey ahead. Enjoy your first evening on board, taking in the atmosphere of the Congo River.

Overnight on board.

Day 2 Arrival and Boarding

Start the day with a guided tour of Brazzaville, visiting the Congo Basin Museum, the Poto Poto School of Art, and the city's grand Cathedral. On your return, experience the culture of the Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes (SAPE), a movement celebrating style and elegance. In the afternoon, embark on your journey up the Congo River, passing rich green hills while getting to know your guides and learning more about the region.

Overnight on board.

Day 3 Téké Kingdom & Kebe Kebe Ritual

Day 4 Islands & Floating Villages

Day 5 Mossaka & Fishing Traditions

Day 6 Alima River & Moye People

Day 7 Traditional Medicine & Crocodile Hunting

Day 8 Lésio Louna Gorilla Sanctuary

Day 9 Departure

Speak to a Republic of the Congo expert today

and start planning your tailor-made holiday

Call 0203 111 1315
or

Alistair

Republic of the Congo Expert

When to go to the Republic of Congo

A month by month guide of when to visit the Republic of Congo

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

Hot and humid, January offers ideal conditions for travellers seeking adventure and wildlife encounters in the Republic of Congo. The equatorial north remains warm and muggy, while the centre-south experiences tropical warmth with occasional light rain. The lively landscapes make it perfect for gorilla trekking and river safaris along the Congo River. Days are often sunny, providing great photography opportunities, and the national parks are less crowded, ensuring an exclusive wildlife experience.

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February

Warm and humid, February is ideal for gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and exploring national parks. The north remains equatorial, while the centre-south stays tropical with occasional rains. The trails are easier to navigate, and animals are active around rivers and waterholes. Clear skies make February perfect for photography and scenic boat trips along the Congo River. Birdwatchers will find a variety of species to spot, adding to the wildlife experience.

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March

As the rainy season begins, March becomes wetter, with vivid greenery covering the landscapes. The equatorial north remains hot and humid, while the centre-south stays warm, making this an ideal time for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting migratory species, while gorilla trekking is still possible. The rivers become fuller, allowing for adventurous boat safaris, and fewer crowds make it a great time for wildlife exploration and photography.

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April

As the rainy season begins, March becomes wetter, transforming the landscapes into a blooming paradise. The equatorial north remains hot and humid, while the centre-south stays warm, making this an ideal time for those who appreciate the outdoors. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting migratory species, while gorilla trekking is still possible. The rivers become fuller, allowing for adventurous boat safaris, and fewer crowds make it a great time for wildlife exploration and photography.

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May

As the rainy season continues, May is perfect for adventure travellers and nature enthusiasts. The equatorial north remains hot and humid, while the centre-south transitions towards the dry season. It’s a rewarding time for wildlife viewing, as animals move through dense vegetation. Birdwatchers can spot many nesting species, and the waterfalls are stunning, offering an immersive experience in vibrant landscapes, ideal for those who enjoy lively scenery.

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June

As the rainy season ends, June offers a blend of green landscapes and fewer crowds. Temperatures cool down in the centre-south, especially along the coast, while the north stays equatorial. It’s a great time for birdwatchers, with various species present, and the rivers are ideal for scenic boat trips. Wildlife remains active, and gorilla trekking is still possible, making June an excellent choice for experiencing the Republic of Congo’s natural beauty.

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July

July marks the peak of the dry season in the centre and south, with warm, sunny weather making it one of the best months to visit. The north remains humid and warm, typical of the equatorial climate. It is an ideal time for gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and exploring national parks. Trails become more accessible, and wildlife is easier to spot around water sources. The beaches along the Atlantic coast are perfect for relaxation, offering a mix of adventure and tranquillity.

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August

August continues with warm, sunny weather in the centre and south, but temperatures are cooler than in July. This is a great month for outdoor activities like gorilla trekking, safaris, and exploring the Congo's beaches. The dry season persists, while the north stays equatorial and humid. Wildlife is abundant, with animals gathering around water sources, creating ideal conditions for safaris. Clear skies are perfect for photography, and birdwatchers can still spot a variety of species, making it a balanced month for adventure and relaxation.

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September

September marks the end of the dry season in the centre and south, with weather becoming rainier and hotter. The north remains equatorial, with consistently warm and humid conditions. It’s a great time for trekking, wildlife safaris, and river adventures, as gorillas are still easier to spot. The greenery from earlier rains offers stunning photography backdrops, and fewer tourists make it ideal for those seeking quieter exploration.

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October

October sees the return of the rainy season, bringing heavy rains and humid conditions, especially in the north. The centre and south also become rainier, but the beautiful landscapes begin to bloom once more. This month is perfect for jungle trekking, gorilla spotting, and enjoying rising river levels, ideal for scenic boat trips. It’s an excellent time for nature enthusiasts, with fewer tourists and plenty of wildlife activity.

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November

November continues with tropical rainstorms, contrasting with sunny and warm periods, especially in the equatorial north. The landscapes remain rich and colourful, making it a great month for gorilla trekking, river safaris, and jungle adventures. Wildlife stays active, and the waterfalls are impressive. Birdwatching is rewarding, with many species visible. Despite the rains, warm temperatures make it a fantastic month for those seeking exciting, adventurous holiday experiences.

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December

Warm and wet, December is part of the rainy season, transforming the Republic of Congo into a verdant paradise. Rainforests thrive with life, making gorilla trekking and jungle safaris thrilling. Rising river levels allow for scenic boat trips and wildlife viewing. This month offers a mix of adventure and serenity, making it ideal for travellers seeking an exotic holiday destination with unique experiences in both equatorial and tropical climates.

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