Places to visit in Central African Republic

Children will be delighted to see the wide variety of flora and fauna when they go on safaris in the national parks. They will simply love to run after the colorful butterflies and will have the time of their lives in activities like fishing, boating, cycling etc. They will see the pygmies and their lifestyle from very close; getting to know these native individuals who still remain a part of their history or story books is quite overwhelming.

This is the only place in the CAR that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the largest park to be found in the savannas of this area. The interesting mix of landscapes here has ensured that flora and fauna typical of East and West Africa both can be found here.

There are plenty of endangered species living here such as the hippos, black rhinos etc. Other animals such as loppers, wild dogs and cheats can also be found here. There are over 320 bird species and over 57 types of mammals.

These breathtaking waterfalls tumble down 164 feet which is just a wee bit more than the famous Niagara Falls. It can get reduced to a trickle however during dry seasons. You will need to pay a small fee to view this cascading beauty. The water is controlled by a dam but on Sundays, it is released for the benefit of the tourists.

Getting around is done by boat, four wheelers or buses. In peaceful times, it is not a problem to get across into neighboring countries such as Cameron, Sudan and Chad, Congo. However, you must check with the embassy as the borders open and close infrequently.

This forest is the home of leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, gazelles, rhinoceros and many more.The weather in this park is hot throughout the year making grass fires a common phenomenon here.

This is one of the most important parks of the country. The key reason is its location which is near the Sangha River. It is the home of many wild animals like forest elephants, lowland gorillas, sitatungas, chimpanzee, red river hog, water buffaloes and many more.

It is easily accessible from Bangui via road or air. There are vehicles that can be rented in case you want to explore the area without a Central African Republictourism guide. This can be easily accessed on the way back from Congo or Cameroon via pirogues which are small wooden boats fitted with a motor.

It is located in down town Bangui and allows you to learn about the rich heritage of the country as this museum hosts a large collection of traditional musical instruments, ivory sculptures, jewellery, weapons, and even games and utensils. There is a separate section devoted to portraying the pygmy lifestyle.

The country comprises 15 % Muslims, 25% Roman Catholics and 25% Protestants. The remaining belongs to religions or groups that are indigenous.

There are many churches and mosques here but they are often subjected to violence at times.

This is a monument to the dictator Jean-BedelBokassa. It is hugely popular as a tourist attraction with its large white arch. Its central location in Bangui makes for easy access. Bokassa was a self declared emperor who reigned over the country for 3 years.