Travel Safety in Republic of Congo

The security risks in the Republic of Congo vary according to the travel area and the profile of the traveller. In the country’s main urban centres, Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, crime poses the primary risk. The form of criminality most likely to be encountered by foreign visitors is petty in nature. Although foreign nationals rarely fall victim to violent crime in major towns and cities, the risks are elevated in rural areas where armed bandits operate. This is of particular concern in Pool department, and to a lesser extent in Likouala department, where armed groups are known to operate.

Conflict and kidnapping are also ongoing concerns in Pool, but are not considered to be major concerns elsewhere in the country. Currently, there is no significant threat of terrorism in the Republic of Congo. Although politically stable, opposition to the government has led to an increase in demonstrations in the country. Many of these events, which have centered on Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, have turned violent.

Medical care in the country is almost solely limited to major urban centres and is not of an international standard. Facilities elsewhere are almost non-existent.