Brazzaville

Brazzaville was officially found in 1880 and became the capital of French Congo in 1904. During WWII, it served as the capital of the French government in exile. After the independence of Congo in 1960 it became the capital of that country.

The city is on the northern banks of the Congo river, across from Kinshasa in the DRC. It is a big city, with a cathedral, mosque and National Museum that are all worth a visit. There are some nice markets where you will have to bargain to pay a reasonable price for your purchase. The most lively and interesting part of Brazzaville is the area called Poto Poto.

There is a tourist office in the Plateau district and on Ave de l'independance you will find the embassy for Democratic Republic of the Congo where visas for that country, just on the other side of the Congo river, can be obtained.

Brazzaville is not a cheap place to stay or eat, but if you buy food from the local markets you can keep down the costs. The city's nightlife is very noisy and musical. Agree on prices for taxi-fares beforehand as you will be ripped off even more if you don't.

The Congo rapids about 10 km from the capital are the major natural site in the area.

Hours from UTC: 1
Daylight savings time: n/a

City phone code: Not required
Country phone code: 242