The Republic of Congo, named after the world’s second biggest and deepest river, is characterized by lush tropical rainforests interspersed by patches of savannah.  The capital, Brazzaville, is situated along the banks of the Congo River, and this Central African nation is home to the largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon.  The extensive forest is inhabited by the critically endangered western lowland gorilla in Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a designated UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve.

 The 1,350,000-hectare expanse of Odzala, situated in a secluded northwestern region of the country, comprises a diverse array of savannah, forest, and rainforest, nourished by the Lekoli and Kokoua rivers.  In addition to its gorillas, the park hosts Central Africa’s largest elephant population, as well as forest buffalo, chimpanzees, mangabeys, and over 400 distinct bird species.  Visitors may partake in gorilla tracking, woodland excursions, diurnal and nocturnal wildlife drives, and boat safaris.

 The capital of the nation, serving as the country’s gateway, is situated along the western banks of the Congo River.  Named for a Franco-Italian explorer, Brazzaville serves as a significant port city and transportation nexus for the Congo.  Maya Maya Airport, located just minutes from the city center, accommodates flights from many domestic locations as well as international destinations including Paris, Johannesburg, and Nairobi.