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Hunger in the Central African Republic
Hunger in the Central African Republic
The Central African Republic (CAR), a landlocked country in Central Africa, has one of the highest rates of hunger in the world. In fact, it ranks second-to-last on the 2019 Human Development Index.

Hunger in the Central African Republic

The Central African Republic (CAR), a landlocked country in Central Africa, has one of the highest rates of...

10 Places To Visit In Central African Republic | Travel Video | Travel Guide | SKY Travel
Central African Republic flag

Central African Republic Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Bangui

Location:

Central Africa, north of Democratic Republic of the Congo

Currency:

Cooperation Financiere en Afrique Centrale francs (XAF)

Area:

622,984 sq km

Population:

5,357,984 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

French (official), Sangho (lingua franca and national language), tribal languages

Religion:

Christian 89%, Muslim 9%, folk religion 1%, unaffiliated 1% (2020 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC+1

Tel Code:

+236

Things to Do

  • 1. Visit Dzanga-Sangha Reserve

    Explore the pristine rainforests of the Dzanga-Sangha Reserve and encounter a wide variety of wildlife, including gorillas, elephants, and rare bird species.

  • 2. Climb Mt. Ngaoui

    Embark on a challenging trek to the summit of Mt. Ngaoui and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • 3. Visit Boali Falls

    Marvel at the spectacular Boali Falls, a series of waterfalls cascading down the Ouaka River, and enjoy the serene natural beauty of the surrounding area.

  • 4. Explore Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Park

    Discover the diverse ecosystems of Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Park, home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.

  • 5. Visit Zinga Island

    Escape to the tranquil Zinga Island and enjoy white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving.

  • 6. Go on a Safari in Bamingui-Bangoran National Park

    Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure in Bamingui-Bangoran National Park and spot a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.

  • 7. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

    Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, a prominent landmark in Bangui, the capital city of Central African Republic.

  • 8. Explore Bokassa Palace

    Take a guided tour of Bokassa Palace, the former residence of Jean-Bédel Bokassa, the self-proclaimed Emperor of Central African Republic, and learn about the country's history.

  • 9. Visit the National Museum of Central African Republic

    Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Central African Republic at the National Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks.

  • 10. Go on a River Cruise along the Ubangi River

    Enjoy a leisurely river cruise along the picturesque Ubangi River and soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Weather

Climate

  • The rainy season: May to October
  • The dry season: November to April
  • Average temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) to 35°C (95°F)

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Central African Republic is during the dry season, from November to April. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with sunny days and cooler nights. The dry season is also the best time to see wildlife, as animals tend to gather around water sources.

During the rainy season, many roads become impassable, and some parks and reserves may close due to flooding. However, if you don't mind the rain, the wet season can also be a great time to visit, as the landscape is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists.

It's worth noting that Central African Republic is currently experiencing political instability and violence, and the U.S. Department of State has issued a "Do Not Travel" advisory for the country. Before planning a trip to Central African Republic, it's important to research the latest travel advisories and safety information.

Visas

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

COVID Status

I am vaccinated 
Central African Republic Closed
Test
Not required
Quarantine
Required

Check Visa Requirements

      Accommodation

      Accommodation options in Central African Republic are limited, especially outside of the capital city of Bangui. However, there are a few options available for travelers.

      Hotels

      There are a few hotels in Bangui, ranging from budget to mid-range. Some of the most popular options include:

      • Ledger Plaza Bangui
      • Hotel Amitie
      • Hotel du Centre

      Guesthouses

      Guesthouses are a popular option for budget travelers, and there are a few options in Bangui. These may offer a more authentic experience than hotels. Some popular guesthouses include:

      • Residence Le Nid
      • Chez Wafik

      Safari Lodges

      If you are visiting one of Central African Republic's national parks or reserves, you may be able to stay in a safari lodge. These lodges offer a unique experience in the heart of the wilderness, and may be the only accommodation option in some areas. Some popular safari lodges include:

      • Doli Lodge
      • Sangha Lodge

      Transportation

      Air Travel

      The main international airport in Central African Republic is located in Bangui, and there are a few domestic airports throughout the country. Air travel is the safest and most convenient option for getting around Central African Republic, especially for long distances.

      Road Travel

      The road network in Central African Republic is generally poor, and many roads are unpaved and poorly maintained. Driving can be hazardous, especially outside of urban areas. However, there are some rental car options available in Bangui, and taxis are also available in larger towns.

      Public Transport

      Public transport options in Central African Republic are limited, and may not be safe or reliable. Buses and shared taxis are available, but may be crowded and uncomfortable, and may not follow set schedules.

      River Travel

      Central African Republic is home to the Ubangi River, which forms part of the country's border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. River transport is available, but may not be safe or reliable.

      Money

      Money Tips for Travel

      • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
      • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
      • Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
      • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
      • Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
      • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
      • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
      • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
      • NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
      • Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

      ATM and Credit Cards

      • Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
      • Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
      • Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
      • Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
      • Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
      • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

      Exchange Rates

      • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
      • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
      • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
      • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
      • Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

      Insurance

      Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

      Medical Coverage

      Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

      Trip Cancellation and Interruption

      Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

      Lost or Stolen Luggage

      Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

      Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

      Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

      Liability coverage

      Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

      Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

      Mobile

      When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

      eSIM

      Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

      Dual SIM phone

      If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

      Extend your home plan

      Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

      Keep your primary SIM

      With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

      Community

      There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

      Facebook groups

      There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

      Meetup

      Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

      Internations

      Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

      Couchsurfing

      Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

      Reddit

      Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

      Linkedin

      LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

      At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.