Congo Basin Gorillas, Elephants & Untouched Rainforest

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace. This free time allows you to recover from travel, relax by the pool, or explore the immediate surroundings independently.

In the afternoon, head out for a guided cultural exploration of Brazzaville. After lunch at a scenic riverside restaurant, discover the city’s artistic and historical highlights. Visit the Poto-Poto Textile Market and Painting School, renowned for its vibrant Congolese artwork, followed by Marché Plateau Ville, the bustling central market. Continue to St. Anne’s Basilica, an architectural icon of the city, and the Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial, dedicated to the founder of Brazzaville. Conclude the day with a drink overlooking the Congo River rapids, before enjoying a sunset drive along La Corniche and across the Independence Bridge. Overnight stay in Brazzaville.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your scheduled private charter flight from Brazzaville to Mboko Airstrip, located deep within Odzala-Kokoua National Park. The flight operates on Mondays and Thursdays and takes approximately two hours, offering spectacular aerial views of the Congo Basin.

On arrival at Mboko Airstrip, begin a scenic 2–3 hour drive through open savanna and dense rainforest to reach Ndzehi Concession. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife sightings. After settling into the lodge, gather around the fire in the evening for a detailed conservation briefing and gorilla-tracking orientation, providing insight into the research and protection of western lowland gorillas. Dinner and overnight at Ndzehi Concession.

Today is dedicated to exploring the pristine rainforests of Ndzehi Concession, one of the most important areas in the world for western lowland gorilla research. Accompanied by expert guides and trackers, set out on guided forest walks, learning to read subtle signs such as broken branches, footprints, and feeding remains.

Compared to mountain gorillas, lowland gorillas are more active due to their fruit-rich diet, making encounters dynamic and deeply rewarding. The terrain here is flatter and more accessible, allowing for extended observation. Other wildlife you may encounter includes galagos, moustached monkeys, crowned monkeys, forest duikers, palm civets, hornbills, tree frogs, and the rare great blue turaco. Return to camp for meals and overnight.

Enjoy a second full day immersed in this remarkable ecosystem. Morning and afternoon forest walks offer further opportunities to track gorillas and explore different sections of the concession. Each walk reveals new aspects of rainforest life, from towering ancient trees to the intricate sounds of primates and birds overhead. Your guides will share insights into long-term primate research and conservation efforts, deepening your understanding of the Congo Basin’s ecological importance. Spend time relaxing at camp between activities, surrounded by untouched wilderness. Overnight at Ndzehi Concession.

After breakfast, enjoy one final guided exploration of the Ndzehi rainforest before bidding farewell to this extraordinary habitat. Later, begin your transfer towards Lango Bai, one of Odzala’s most wildlife-rich forest clearings. The journey involves traveling to the Lékéni River, followed by a 30–60 minute kayaking experience and a guided walk of similar duration, depending on water levels. This adventurous transfer offers a true sense of remoteness as you move deeper into the park’s wilderness. Arrive at Lango Bai in time to settle in and enjoy the natural surroundings. Overnight at Lango Bai.

Wake up surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest. Today’s activities focus on walking safaris, following ancient forest elephant trails through streams and open bai clearings. Your guide will explain the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem, where wildlife congregates to feed and socialize. Lango Bai is home to a rich variety of species, including black-and-white colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, putty-nosed monkeys, and the elusive De Brazza’s monkey. Larger mammals such as forest elephants, bongos, red river hogs, and spotted hyenas may also be encountered, along with abundant birdlife. Overnight at Lango Bai.

Begin the day with an early morning walking safari as the forest awakens, offering excellent chances for wildlife sightings. After breakfast, depart Lango Bai by vehicle for a 2–3 hour game drive towards the Lékéni River, passing through a striking transition zone where rainforest meets savanna. After lunch, relax on the river deck or enjoy a gentle forest walk before the afternoon activity. Later, embark on a scenic river cruise, drifting through winding waterways and savanna channels. Wildlife sightings may include chimpanzees, forest elephants, hippos, slender-snouted and dwarf crocodiles, along with numerous primates and bird species. Overnight at Lékéni River.

Spend a full day exploring the diverse habitats around the Lékéni River. Guided activities may include walking safaris, boating excursions, and kayaking, allowing you to experience the region from multiple perspectives. Between activities, relax at camp and observe the steady rhythm of river life. The area is particularly rich in birds, butterflies, and primates, making even quiet moments rewarding. Overnight at Lékéni River.

After breakfast, enjoy a short game drive transfer (approx. 20 minutes) through the savanna to Mboko Airstrip. Board your private charter flight back to Brazzaville, marking the end of your wilderness adventure. Upon arrival, connect with your onward international flight or continue to another destination. Tailor-made extensions to other parts of Africa can be arranged upon request.