Africa
Is Republic of the Congo safe?
L2Exercise increased caution
Is Republic of the Congo safe?
The UK advises against all travel within 50 km of the Central African Republic border in Likouala. Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire are workable with normal precautions, but street crime is common.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 2: Exercise increased caution, updated 2024-10-01.
- Road deaths: 29.7 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 117 · Fire 118.
- Solo women: Harassment occurs but violence against visitors is uncommon. Avoid walking alone after dark.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Mugging and phone snatching in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire
- Armed groups near the CAR border
- Road crashes and police roadblocks
- Malaria, Ebola alerts and poor emergency care
Common scams
- Bribe demands at police checkpoints
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing government buildings, the presidential palace or military sites is banned.
- Carry passport copies for police checks.
Quick answers
Is Republic of the Congo safe for tourists?
The UK advises against all travel within 50 km of the Central African Republic border in Likouala. Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire are workable with normal precautions, but street crime is common.
Is Republic of the Congo safe for solo female travelers?
Harassment occurs but violence against visitors is uncommon. Avoid walking alone after dark.
What is the emergency number in Republic of the Congo?
Police 117 · Fire 118.
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Republic of the Congo
- World Bank open data
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