Wildlife & premium lodges in the undiscovered Congo Basin

8-day fly-in safari with 2 x gorilla trekking

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Gorilla trekking, kayaking, and nature walks in the untouched rainforest

from/to Brazzaville

8 days (7 nights)

Maximum 12 people

English-speaking

8 days / 7 nights fly-in safari through the Congo rainforest with overnight stays in three different boutique lodges

The Congo Basin – the world's second-largest rainforest, little explored and largely untouched. Lush vegetation and species-rich fauna in lush green rainforests, vast savannahs, and the meandering rivers and tributaries of the Congo.

A journey into the depths of the Congo Basin connects you with nature and will leave you feeling humbled.

During your stay in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, you will not only observe lowland gorillas and forest elephants in their natural habitat. You will also spend the night in three very unique lodges that blend harmoniously into the untouched natural landscape.

Sometimes you sleep to the sounds of the rainforest amid the treetops, sometimes your lodge towers above a bay where elephants visit you in the evening. With only six bungalows per lodge, exclusivity is guaranteed and gentle tourism ensures that the fragile ecosystem is protected. Despite the remoteness, you will want for nothing in the lodges: the hospitality of the Congolese, the family atmosphere, and the fantastic cuisine made with local ingredients will make your stay unforgettable.

Stephanie Gräf

Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in personalized and exciting trips around the globe.

I am your contact person for questions and bookings regarding your trip.

You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de

Make an appointment

Good to know

Getting there
On request, we can book your flights and pre- and post-programs individually in a package deal.
Please feel free to contact us!

Entry and safety information:
The U.S. Department of State provides the following information for travel to the Republic of Congo.

HIGHLIGHTS

Intense safari through the Congo Basin, the world's second-largest rainforest
2 x Gorilla trekking to families of western lowland gorillas
Breathtaking bird's-eye view of the Congo Basin during takeoff and landing in/from Brazzaville
Odzala-Kokoua National Park, with its striking landscapes including jungle, savanna, and extensive wetlands
Up-close encounters with forest elephants, water buffalo, chimpanzees, and more.
3 individual lodges with a maximum of 6 private pavilions directly above the water, in the middle of the savannah, or high up in the jungle canopy
Night hikes and sunrise tours with experienced guides: Experience the rainforest in all its moods
On kayak and boat tours on quiet waterways through the jungle
Wading across the swampy clearing into the heart of Lango Baï
Make authentic connections during village visits
Sundowner by the open fire with a view of bathing elephants
Sightseeing tour of Brazzaville with all the must-sees

route

Map of the Republic of Congo with the itinerary

itinerary

Day 1: Private flight to Ngaga Lodge

The journey to your first lodge promises breathtaking moments: you will take off from Brazzaville in a private plane and fly to Mboko Airstrip, in the heart of Odzala-Kokoua National Park. During the approximately two-hour flight aboard a twin-engine Air-Tec LET L-410, you will enjoy impressive views of the endless green expanses of the Republic of Congo's rainforest from the air.

After landing at Odzala-Kokoua airfield, you will be met by your personal guide. Your journey into the depths of the jungle then begins: a 2- to 3-hour drive along unpaved roads through savannah landscapes and dense rainforest brings you to your first accommodation, the idyllically located Ngaga Lodge on the edge of the tropical national park.

In the evening, gather with your guide around a crackling campfire. Under the starry sky of the African night, listen to exciting stories about the park's conservation projects and prepare for gorilla viewing. Anticipation for the next morning grows as you set off early on foot to track the western lowland gorillas.

To start with, you will spend three nights at Ngaga Lodge, where guided excursions, all meals, and drinks are included.

People with luggage walk toward a propeller plane

Aerial view of Ngaga Lodge in the middle of the rainforest

People are sitting around a fire pit on a round terrace in the evening light.

Days 2 to 3: Tiptoeing through the rainforest

Deep in the heart of the rainforest and far away from civilization, you will immerse yourself in the diverse nature surrounding Ngaga Lodge over the coming days. As you wander through the dense greenery, you will be accompanied by the calls of numerous monkey and bird species. With a little luck, you may even encounter rare forest elephants or shy bongo antelopes.

After dark, the rainforest reveals a completely different side: on an exciting night hike, you will experience how the jungle remains alive even in the darkness with mysterious sounds. If you like, you can also visit the neighboring villages of Mbomo and Ombo. Here you will meet people who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. Learn more about their everyday life, the challenges of living in the Congo Basin, and the special cohesion of the community.

However, the highlight of your stay will undoubtedly be gorilla trekking: two groups of western lowland gorillas live near Ngaga Lodge. Together with your experienced guide, you will embark on a 2- to 8-hour hike, depending on where the gorillas are currently located. The terrain is challenging in places, but the effort will be rewarded when you finally catch your first glimpse of these gentle giants. Observe the gorilla family in their natural habitat – an intimate moment that will touch you deeply and remain in your memory for a long time to come.

To round off the day in a relaxed manner, enjoy the warm evening atmosphere with a sundowner and reflect on your impressions of the wilderness in a relaxed setting.

Day 4: From the rainforest to the baï – Lango Lodge awaits you

The day begins with a final breakfast at Ngaga Lodge before you set off once again into the untouched rainforest to take in the sounds and scents of the jungle. You will then depart for the next stage of your journey: a two-hour drive through the diverse landscape of Odzala-Kokoua National Park to your new accommodation.

The journey to Lango Lodge is just as exciting as the stay that awaits you there. On foot, by jeep, and finally by water, you approach your lodge step by step. Along the way, keep an eye out for monkeys, forest elephants, water buffalo, and colorful birds frolicking along the riverbanks.

Your destination is Lango Lodge, picturesquely located on the edge of Lango Baï – with one of the most spectacular views an African camp has to offer.

Here you will spend two nights with guided activities and all meals and drinks included.

Two off-road vehicles drive along a muddy track through the rainforest.

Panoramic view of the circular viewing terrace of the Lango Lodge on stilts

Four men wade through Lango Bay, with water buffalo grazing in the background.

Day 5: Discovery tours by water and land

Get ready for wet feet in the coming days! Around Lango Lodge, you can explore the vast baïs, the gently flowing Lekoli River, and the surrounding forest and swamp areas – sometimes on long hikes, sometimes on shorter exploratory walks along the trails created by elephants.

Look forward to exciting wildlife viewing as you wade knee-deep through the water-rich wetlands. With a little luck, you may see flocks of African grey parrots gathering in the trees during breeding season or spot forest buffalo grazing peacefully in the lush greenery. If the moment is right, you may even spot a shy bongo among the clearings. As you move through the hidden waterways and mysterious forests, the beauty of the small wonders beneath the dense canopy will reveal itself to you.

End the evening on the spacious terrace of the Lango Lodge. The view sweeps across the open baï, where, with a little luck, you may see families of elephants gathering at the waterholes or monkeys swinging through the treetops – accompanied by the polyphonic concert of birds and frogs that accompanies dusk in the heart of the Congo Basin.

Day 6: Change of scenery at Mboko Lodge – Where the forest meets the savanna and the river

With the first rays of sunshine, you set off on a morning walk and experience how the rainforest slowly awakens and nature greets the new day. Back at Lango Lodge, you enjoy a final breakfast before continuing your journey. The route first takes you across a wooden walkway that leads through the swampy terrain of the Baï, and then an off-road vehicle takes you through the varied landscape to your next accommodation – Mboko Lodge, picturesquely located at the transition from rainforest to open savannah.

After arriving and enjoying a hearty lunch at the camp, you have a choice: explore the surroundings on your first walk through the forest or relax on the veranda by the river. Later in the afternoon, you can enjoy a boat trip on the Lékéni River, which winds its way through the savannah landscape like a green ribbon and flows into a network of waterways. With every bend in the river, a new picturesque view opens up – and you may even spot hippos, birds, or forest elephants on the banks.

You will spend two nights at Mboko Lodge, including guided activities, all meals, and beverages.

Impressive brown termite mounds in the green savanna

An elephant stands in front of the veranda of Mboko Lodge.

A boat travels down the brown Lekeni River through the jungle.

Day 7: Through savannah, rainforest, and wetlands in hiking boots, kayak, or boat

During your stay at Mboko Lodge, one nature experience follows another – sometimes every hour. Surrounded by gently flowing rivers, open grasslands, and dense forests, a varied program awaits you, bringing you closer to the diversity of this special habitat.

Together with your guide, you will roam the riverbanks and forests, always on the lookout for the inhabitants of this species-rich region. Colorful birds flutter through the treetops, while forest elephants, buffalo, and hippos appear in the distance. With a little luck, you may also spot a spotted hyena, a shy bongo , or watch playful monkeys swinging through the branches. Whether on foot, by boat, or in a kayak, each perspective offers new insights into one of the most fascinating landscapes in the Congo Basin.

In between, there is room for relaxation and enjoyment: cool your feet in the clear river branches of Mboko, take a refreshing dip, or soak up the scenery on the veranda by the water. As you gaze out over the river with the gentle lapping of the water in your ears, you may see monkeys scurrying through the branches or colorful butterflies dancing through the air.

Day 8: One last look back: From the private plane to Brazzaville

"You never really leave" – Returning to everyday life will certainly not be easy for you. But you will have your memories to take with you. After breakfast, your final journey will take you through the savannah to Mboko Airstrip. Your private plane will be waiting there to take you back to Brazzaville.

The wing of an airplane flying above the clouds

(B) = Breakfast, (L) = Lunch, (D) = Dinner

PLEASE NOTE: The daily programs described here are for your guidance only. The itinerary may vary due to local weather conditions, but also in order to respond to current circumstances regarding wildlife viewing. The tour guide will determine the final itinerary. Flexibility is of utmost importance when traveling in unspoiled nature.

Further information

Ngaga Lodge: Eye to eye with gorillas under the canopy of the rainforest | 3 nights

Deeply hidden in an almost inaccessible, lush green rainforest lies Ngaga, one of the most extraordinary lodges in Africa. On the banks of the Ngaga, you have the rare opportunity to encounter western lowland gorillas in their natural habitat. In a place where there has been little human influence to date, you quickly develop a deep connection with nature.

Ngaga is not only a refuge for travelers seeking unforgettable nature experiences, but also home to a renowned primate research team. These experts have been observing gorilla families for decades, following their hidden paths and deciphering the mysterious rhythms of the forest. Guests have the unique opportunity to share in this wealth of knowledge while immersing themselves in one of the last untouched wildernesses on earth.

With just six thatched bungalows on stilts, Ngaga promises privacy and an exclusive nature experience. A viewing platform high up in the giant trees is the ideal place to watch monkeys and birds while you drink your morning coffee by the warming fire. You can enjoy completely private views of the treetops from your veranda or through the unglazed, netted windows. Even in the seclusion of this intact ecosystem, the lodge team will pamper you with stylish service, outstanding cuisine, and warm hospitality.

Facilities

Six stylish twin/double bungalows on stilts, harmoniously nestled in the dense forest landscape, with breathtaking views of the rainforest.
Natural construction: The bungalows are made from local materials, including artfully woven palm fronds from the raffia palm.
Inviting lounge and restaurant area on raised platforms with unobstructed views of the untouched wilderness
Stardeck & fire pit: Perfect for aperitifs at sunset and for convivial evenings under the African starry sky.
River deck at Ngaga: The ideal place for a sundowner after an eventful hike or for special occasions
Wi-Fi access (limited)

Your accommodation:

Elevated construction: The bungalows are perched 3–4 meters above the forest floor and offer a particularly scenic experience of nature.
Circular veranda for spectacular views of the rainforest
Private bathroom with hot water shower and flush toilet for maximum comfort
Mosquito net for restful sleep in the wilderness
Environmentally friendly care products, including biodegradable soaps and shampoos
Ceiling fans for pleasant air circulation (no air conditioning)
European power outlets for convenient charging of your electronic devices
In-room safe for secure storage of personal valuables

Which animals can you observe?

Western lowland gorilla – Three groups accustomed to humans within walking distance of Ngaga Lodge
Squirrel monkey – shy and difficult to spot
Moustached monkey – Fascinating inhabitant of the rainforest
Palm civet – Nocturnal, mysterious mammal
Galago – Also known as bush baby, with large, bright eyes
Forest Duck – A small, shy forest dweller
Black-crested hornbill – Majestic bird with distinctive beak protuberance
Great blue turaco – Rare, with strikingly iridescent plumage
Diverse bird life
Numerous butterflies and insects
Tree frog – Tiny acrobat among the leaves.

Highlights

Gorilla trekking: On the trail of the western lowland gorillas
Nature walks: Discover the exciting flora and fauna of the rainforest
Night hikes: Exploring at dusk and at night
Village visit: Encounters with the locals
Cuisine: Indulge in exquisitely prepared dishes made with regional ingredients.

A double bed with a gathered mosquito net in an airy pavilion with a palm-covered roof.

Sleeping at Ngaga Lodge | © Felix-Studios

Small hut covered with palm fronds with a wraparound veranda in the middle of the rainforest

Your thatched bungalow in the rainforest | © Scott Ramsey

Lango Lodge: A tribute to nature right on the Baï | 2 nights

Nestled in one of Africa's most spectacular landscapes, Lango Lodge lies in the heart of the untouched Congolese rainforest. Built on stilts, it towers above the picturesque Lango Baï – a vast swampy clearing in the forest where elephants, buffalo, and numerous other wild animals come to bathe, graze, and socialize. Huge flocks of green pigeons and African grey parrots flutter overhead.

From the lodge with its wraparound verandas and treehouse-like bungalows, you can enjoy breathtaking views and easy access to one of the last truly intact ecosystems on Earth. Here, it's all about experiencing nature up close with all your senses: the best way to feel the wilderness is to wade barefoot through the mud or stand knee-deep in the water. Or stroll across the lodge's footbridge to an open pavilion, where you can relax and watch the animals passing by below you by the open fire – accompanied by the mysterious sounds of the rainforest.

You reach Lango after an epic two-hour river trip by kayak and a wonderful, albeit somewhat damp, walk through the baï. Follow in the footsteps of the elephants and gaze up at the dizzyingly high crowns of the kapok trees. Share your experiences at the bar and look forward to delicious authentic dishes made from local ingredients.

Facilities

Six stylish twin/double bungalows, built on stilts and harmoniously integrated into the dense rainforest, with breathtaking views of Lango Baï.
Sustainable construction: Made from natural materials such as artfully woven palm fronds from the raffia palm tree
Elevated wooden walkways connect the lodge and give it a unique, treehouse-like atmosphere.
Restaurant, lounge, and bar on the main deck with unobstructed views of the bay—ideal for wildlife viewing in a relaxed atmosphere
Stargazing deck & fire pit: Perfectly positioned for atmospheric sundowners before dinner and unforgettable wildlife viewing in the last light of day
Wi-Fi access (limited)

Your accommodation:

Elevated construction: The bungalows are perched 3 to 4 meters above the forest floor and offer a unique perspective on nature.
Circular veranda offering breathtaking views in all directions
Private bathroom with hot water shower and flush toilet – comfort in the middle of the rainforest
Mosquito net for undisturbed and restful sleep
Sustainable care products such as biodegradable soaps and shampoos
Ceiling fans for pleasant air circulation (no air conditioning)
European power outlets for your electronic devices
In-room safe for secure storage of your valuables

Which animals can you observe?

Forest buffalo – Powerful and adaptable inhabitants of the rainforest
Striped bushbuck – A graceful and shy forest dweller
Forest elephant – A fascinating inhabitant of dense forests that likes to keep itself hidden
Spotted hyena – A shy hunter of the night.
Bongo – A rare and impressive species of antelope
Red river hog – Rarely seen, but unmistakable with its bright red coloring
Western sitatunga – Well-camouflaged marsh antelope with impressive swimming abilities
Guereza colobus monkey (black and white colobus) – Elegant with its contrasting coat
Grey-cheeked mangabey – A social and lively primate
Slender monkey with spotted nose – A curious forest dweller with distinctive nose markings
De Brazza's monkey – Rare and difficult to spot, with a distinctive white beard
Different species of frogs – from tiny tree frogs to melodious croakers
Grey parrot – An intelligent and linguistically gifted inhabitant of the treetops
Green dove – Perfectly camouflaged among the leaves of the rainforest

Highlights

Guided baï walks: Explore the forest's rivers and swamps and observe flocks of green pigeons and African grey parrots.
Kayaking tours: Experience the waters around the lodge from a different perspective.
Nature walks: On foot, you can immerse yourself directly in the flora and fauna of the rainforest.
Boat trip: Relax and drift along winding waterways.

Seating area with low sofas and an armchair on the open terrace of the Lango Lodge

Airy meeting place on the terrace |© Scott Ramsey

On the veranda in front of a thatched pavilion, a man sits on a director's chair and a woman stands gazing into the distance. The photo was taken from inside the pavilion.

Your suite at Lango Lodge | © Andrew Howard

Mboko Lodge: Where the impressive savannah meets gentle rivers | 2 nights

Welcome to a place where nature comes to life in all its diversity. Mboko Lodge is located in the southern part of Odzala-Kokoua National Park, where savannah, rainforest, and river create a unique mosaic of landscapes with incredible biodiversity. While hyenas roam silently through the open grasslands, monkeys frolic playfully in the treetops. Nearby, picturesque waterways meander through the wilderness, inviting you to take unforgettable boat trips – with a little luck, you may spot rare wildlife in their natural habitat.

The lodge consists of spacious bungalows scattered among the trees along a babbling brook, as well as a dining and lounge pavilion with stunning views over the termite mound-dotted plain. Popular gathering places include an open fire pit, the bar, and the large communal dining table made of petrified wood. Enjoy exquisitely prepared cuisine while thunderstorms dance on the horizon, or listen to nothing but the tranquility of the forest on your private veranda.

Thanks to its privileged location between the private Kamba airstrip and the Lekoli river boat landing stage, Mboko Lodge is the perfect starting point for new experiences every day.

Facilities

Six stylish double/twin bungalows, harmoniously nestled among trees along the Lekeni River—an idyllic retreat surrounded by nature.
Open pavilion with restaurant, lounge, and bar offering spectacular views over the vast grasslands
Stargazing deck & fire pit, perfect for relaxing sundowners before dinner and scanning the distant horizon for fascinating weather phenomena such as distant lightning.
River deck & sheltered lounge area right on the Lekeni River – the ideal place to cool off after a hike, enjoy atmospheric sundowners, or celebrate special occasions.

Your accommodation:

Spacious, stylishly furnished rooms decorated with artwork by local artisans
Private furnished and sheltered porch or terrace with stunning river views—a place to relax and enjoy yourself
Private bathroom with hot water shower and flush toilet for maximum comfort
Mosquito net for an undisturbed night's sleep surrounded by nature
Environmentally friendly care products, including biodegradable soaps and shampoos
Ceiling fans for a pleasant breeze (no air conditioning)
European power outlets for convenient use of electronic devices
In-room safe for secure storage of personal valuables

Which animals can you observe?

Forest buffalo – Powerful and adaptable inhabitants of savannas and forests
Striped bushbuck – An elegant antelope that blends perfectly into the landscape
Forest elephant – A shy but fascinating inhabitant of the dense rainforests
Spotted hyena – A shy nocturnal hunter that roams the grasslands
Bongo – A rare and impressively colored antelope species
Western sitatunga – A shy marsh antelope with exceptional swimming abilities
Guereza colobus monkey (black and white colobus) – Elegant with its striking black and white fur
Grey-cheeked mangabey – A social primate with a lively nature
Slender monkey with spotted nose – curious and nimble in the treetops
De Brazza's monkey – A monkey that is difficult to spot, with a distinctive white beard
Chimpanzee – Rare, but with a little luck you may spot one in the treetops
Narrow-snouted crocodile – A rare species of crocodile that camouflages itself perfectly
Dwarf crocodile – Small, shy, and hidden in the waterways of the rainforest
Hippopotamus – A rare but impressive sight in the waters of the region
Diverse bird life

Highlights

Kayaking tours: As you glide gently along the waterways, you become part of the landscape and experience it from a whole new perspective.
Forest walks: With the sounds of the jungle in your ears, discover a particularly species-rich flora and fauna.
Boat trips: Watch the diverse landscape and its inhabitants drift peacefully by.
Cuisine: Africa tastes so tempting. Even in the middle of the wilderness, you don't have to go without the finest cuisine made from fresh ingredients.

Open lounge area with seating overlooking the savanna and rainforest beyond

Open lounge pavilion with a view over the savannah

In front of a bedroom with a wet window stand two low armchairs upholstered in light-colored fabric.

Your private pavilion at Mboko Lodge

The best activities & highlights of your fly-in safari

Gorilla trekking

Families of western lowland gorillas live in their natural habitat around Ngaga Lodge. During gorilla trekking, you will set off in small groups of no more than four guests to track down these impressive primates. You will watch the animals climbing through trees and swinging from branch to branch in search of ripe fruit, or listen to their loud conversations with each other. Every encounter with the gorillas, who are so similar to us, is fascinating and life-changing.

Species conservation is important to us! That's why we try to keep our ecological footprint as small as possible. We only observe the animals and do not interact with them. Contact with the gorilla families is respectful, authentic, and gentle. The excursions are limited to a maximum of four guests (plus guide and tracker), which allows us to protect the gorilla families while also providing you with a very special, personal experience.
At Ngaga Lodge, gorilla trekking tours are conducted on foot and typically begin before dawn. The expeditions are between 1 and 8 km long and often lead over uneven terrain and through dense undergrowth. The tracks take between two and seven hours, including the time (maximum one hour) spent with the gorillas.

Guests must be at least 15 years old, undergo medical examinations, and wear masks to prevent the transmission of diseases to these precious primates, with whom we share 98% of our DNA. We encourage our guests to take the "Gorilla Friendly Pledge" to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

Guided Baï Walk (Lango Lodge)

The best and most impressive way to explore nature is on foot! However, this also means that you have to expect to get wet and dirty. On your hikes and excursions, you will wade through streams and march through the swamps of the rainforest – one of the few places in Africa where you can do this. Your guide and tracker will be at your side during all activities and will pause when dense flocks of green pigeons and African grey parrots fly overhead, forest elephants are nearby, or monkeys watch you suspiciously.

"Baï" is the Mbenga word for the natural clearings that dot the Congolese rainforest. Their nutrient-rich soil and water attract wildlife like magnets. Water buffalo, forest elephants, bongos, and many other species of mammals, birds, and reptiles gather on the baïs to feed, bathe, and socialize. Our hikes through and around the Lango Baï offer exciting opportunities to encounter these animals as we literally move through their habitats.

Quick-drying clothing and water shoes (or old sneakers you're willing to leave behind) are a must, as are waterproof bags to protect your camera and other equipment.

Kayaking & River Cruises (Mboko Lodge)

Can you already imagine yourself gliding gently and peacefully in a canoe along the rivers and their tributaries through the jungle, accompanied by the incomparable sounds of the primeval forest? Along the green, wild banks, always on the lookout for an elephant or water buffalo that could emerge from the thicket at any moment to cool off or graze in the Congo Basin? As you drift along, a whole new perspective opens up: keep your eyes peeled (and your camera ready) for frolicking monkeys, colorful birds, elephants, buffalo, and antelopes. Let the beauty and tranquility of your surroundings soothe your soul.
From the boat ramp directly in front of Mboko Lodge, you and your guide will explore the gentle Lekoli River and its tributaries and baïs. No prior knowledge is required; only a waterproof bag is recommended to protect your camera and other equipment.

Nature Walks

A safari experience of unparalleled intimacy: our guided hikes reveal the full beauty of the Congo Basin and its pristine rainforests. Quietly, respectfully, and without haste, you will gain a deeper understanding of this precious ecosystem and the flora and fauna it shelters. Hear the sounds of the forest, smell the dewy moisture, and feel connected to something greater.

You will probably see birds with breathtaking plumage and plants that are so rare that they don't even have a name yet. You will discover animals that have adapted to the forest environment: elephants with straight tusks that don't get caught in the dense undergrowth, gorillas that skillfully search for fruit in the tall treetops, and vultures that eat plants because the canopy makes it difficult for them to spot carrion from the air.

Whether it's a forest hike in Ngaga, wading through the fertile waters of Lango, or exploring the open savannah in Mboko, every walk promises something unique—it's up to nature and its whims to decide. But every hike usually ends with a delicious homemade meal or a delightful sundowner in a unique setting.

Night walks (Ngaga Lodge)

After dark, immerse yourself in the secrets of the forest. Listen to the humming of insects and watch the flickering light of fireflies. Search the treetops for the glittering eyes of palm civets, galagos, and creeping potos as your guide sweeps a flashlight across the branches. Listen to the mesmerizing sounds of the forest and notice how alive it is—no matter what time of day.

Your guide knows whether your nighttime explorations will be more successful as a jeep safari or a walk. You don't need any equipment—just a keen eye and an openness to the possibilities that the night brings.

Encounters with the locals (Ngaga Lodge)

Get to know the community. The villages of Mbomo and Ombo, located near Ngaga Lodge, offer the opportunity to meet some of the people who have lived in the Congo Basin for generations. Learn about the challenges and joys of life in the forest and share your own experiences.

Visits to villages must be approved by the local communities and should be arranged in advance. Please let us know before your arrival if you would like to meet some local residents, and we will make the request on your behalf. Please note that photography is generally not permitted. Modest gifts such as school supplies, sports equipment, and new or gently used clothing are always welcome.

Trip to Brazzaville

Colorful and charming, Brazzaville is a welcoming introduction to the culture and cuisine of the Republic. The capital is safe, hospitable, and easy to explore. It's worth setting aside time before or after your trip to discover the modernist architecture, lively markets, and beautiful riverside restaurants. An absolute highlight is the experience with the Sapeurs, a fascinating subculture of street fashion icons whose expressive, chic outfits are considered part of Congolese cultural heritage. (Sapeur tours must be booked in advance; please contact us for more information.)

Our tours include a half-day tour of Brazzaville, covering all the city's must-see sights, including the modernist masterpiece that is St. Anne's Basilica. We also visit the Poto-Poto market with its fantastic range of vibrantly patterned textiles and the Marché Plateau Ville, where local artisans sell masks and carvings. And of course, no trip would be complete without a drive across the iconic Independence Bridge to La Corniche, with its view of the Congo River.

Take time to sample Congolese cuisine, which combines French sophistication with African flavors. Highlights include the elegant waterfront restaurant Mami Wata and La Mandarine, a delicious Lebanese-French bakery and café. Glacy specializes in ice cream that highlights the flavors of the jungle.

Congolese cuisine

Food is an essential part of your 8-day Congo trip, and all our lodges are fully inclusive. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks are included in the price of your trip. Our chefs take pride in combining local flavors and ingredients with international techniques to create meals of exceptional quality. Many guests report that the meals were an unexpected highlight of their stay.
Lunch and dinner are served as three-course meals, with options for starters, main courses, and desserts. Breakfast is nutritious and filling, and snacks are available throughout the day. Vegetarian dishes are available at almost every meal. Most meals are served family-style, with the option of private tables at certain lodges.

Beverages include tea, coffee, soft drinks, water, selected wines and beers, and spirits. Premium beverages are available upon request at an additional cost, which will be added to your bill (payable upon departure).

4-night experience at Sangha Lodge (extension option)

The Sangha Venture is an exciting additional offer in the Central African Republic. To take advantage of this, you can use scheduled flights between Mboko and Kabo on the border with the Central African Republic on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This experience can be booked as an optional extra for a minimum of 8 participants and with departure on Thursday.

Included services:

45-minute flight from Odzala to Kabo
4-hour boat trip on the Sangha River (with remote border posts along the riverbanks) accompanied by a private guide
Accommodation at Sangha Lodge for 4 nights
All meals, as well as house wine, beer, and spirits
limited Wi-Fi
limited laundry service

Not included in the tour price:

Tips and all personal expenses
Imported spirits, fine wines, and champagne
International flights
Certain activities and transfers to activities
Municipal, park, and nature conservation fees
Accommodation, meals, and beverages not mentioned in the inclusive services
additional gorilla trekking permits

All Sangha Ventures require a multiple-entry visa for the Republic of Congo (ROC), which must be applied for prior to arrival. The visa and entry costs for the Central African Republic (CAR) are included in the prices for the Sangha Venture. You also do not need to worry about customs clearance during your journey to Sangha Lodge. Please note: Sangha Ventures always include the scheduled return flight and boat transfer in the price, regardless of whether you actually plan to return this way.

Information

Included services:

Flight from Brazzaville to Ngaga Lodge in a private plane
Return flight from Mboko Lodge to Brazzaville in a private plane
Transfers between the airport and hotel in Brazzaville, from lodge to lodge, and to activities
7 nights: 3 at Ngaga Lodge, 2 at Lango Lodge, and 2 at Mboko Lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, as well as snacks
Beverages such as tea, coffee, soft drinks, water, selected wines, beers, and spirits
English-speaking tour guide with extensive knowledge of the country throughout the trip
2 gorilla trekking permits
Boat trip from Mboko Lodge
Kayak tour from Mboko to Lango
Daily guided hikes
Guided Baï walks in Lango
Guided night hike in Ngaga
Village visit in Ngaga
Half-day tour of Brazzaville including lunch
Wi-Fi (limited access)
Laundry service (limited)
Pick-up at the airport at the start of the trip
Letter of Invitation for the Republic of Congo
Fees such as national park admission or Medevac
Individually tailored experiences in the rainforest or in the baï

Not included in the price: 

Long-haul flight from Germany to Brazzaville and back with Air France or Air Ethiopia
1–2 overnight stays in Brazzaville
Tips for guides, etc.
Personal expenses
International health insurance with emergency repatriation (mandatory)
Travel cancellation insurance (highly recommended)

Information about your trip:

Maximum number of participants: 12
Children aged 15 and over permitted
50% discount for one child between 15 and 30 years old staying in the same villa as their parents
You need proof of yellow fever vaccination.
You will need a visa for the Republic of Congo. We will provide you with the invitation letter required for this. We recommend using the Bonn visa service for this.
Departure to Ngaga Lodge every Thursday or Monday with return flight to Brazzaville the following Thursday or Monday
The probability of seeing western lowland gorillas and forest elephants is very high, but not guaranteed.
You can purchase additional gorilla permits on site, which can only be paid for in cash. Please let us know when booking or as far in advance as possible before departure, and we will request this for you. $750 per person
Private guide: $500 per day for 4 guests
Excursions to the Sapeurs in Brazzaville are available at an additional cost.
Airport transfer to/from the pre-hotel available for an additional charge
All excursions and activities are subject to weather conditions. The program is subject to change.
No experience or prior knowledge is required for this trip, as you will be accompanied by experienced guides at all times.
A basic level of fitness and mobility is required.
You should be prepared for outdoor activities where you may get wet or dirty.

You are traveling to one of the most untouched regions of Africa to observe unspoiled wildlife. Our mission is to offer you safaris that have minimal impact on the environment and wildlife. The safety of travelers and the integrity of the animals are our top priorities.

To ensure this, our customers travel in small groups and are accompanied by experienced nature guides. The daily program is flexible and depends on the current movements of the wild animals and the weather.

inventia and our local partner accept no liability for unforeseen events ("force majeure") that affect the sighting of wild animals in their natural environment. Although our travel itineraries and content are the result of many years of experience, we cannot guarantee the extent or diversity of animal sightings.

Weather conditions, population density, behavior patterns, and migrations of other wildlife are some factors that can influence the behavior and activity of animals. Therefore, there is a possibility that the desired wildlife may not be sighted. While this is unlikely, it is not impossible.

Due to the remote location of your destination in the Congo Basin, flight irregularities due to changing weather conditions are quite possible. It is important to remain flexible on this type of expedition trip. We will always arrange alternatives for you.

Be aware that traveling to remote regions of Africa can involve risky activities such as special animal encounters, and that this poses risks to your health. These experiences are vastly different from visits to the zoo or Disney World. Please follow the instructions of our local partners and guides at all times. Any deviation from these instructions is at your own risk.