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The Best Things to Do in Brazzaville, Congo

Crossing the Congo River
Crossing the Congo River | Victoire Douniama / © Culture Trip

Brazzaville, the vibrant capital city of the Republic of Congo, is centred in the heart of Africa. This small sub-Saharan city is filled with unique historical architecture, hidden treasures and a variety of chic African markets and art galleries that will inspire even the hardest to please. If you want to know which activities will inspire, excite, and entertain, then the following are a few ideas to fulfil your wanderlust.

Visit the Basilique Sainte-Anne

Church

With a number of Roman Catholics in Brazzaville, the city is filled with historical religious architecture – Sainte-Anne is among one of the most breathtaking enormous and old cathedrals in the Republic of Congo. Built in 1943 by French architect Roger Erell and located in the heart of the city, this building is well known due to its strikingly unique green roof and carved copper doors. Most tourist stop by to explore this beautiful building and spot beautifully dressed locals.

Take a boat ride across the Congo River

Natural Feature

congo river
Victoire Douniama / © Culture Trip

If you are fascinated by nature and you love stumbling across breathtaking views, then consider a boat ride across the Congo River. The river is the second largest river in Africa after the Nile river and the second largest river in the world. Taking a boat ride has become a regular activity for many tourists visiting Brazzaville – this activity is not only fun, but also very therapeutic and calm, especially if performed around sunset hours. You will not only enjoy a beautiful sunset view but also have a wonderful view of the neighboring country Congo Kinshasa.

Pay a visit to Les Dépêche de Brazzaville Gallery

Art Gallery

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Victoire Douniama / © Culture Trip

Congo’s love for art resonates with its creative culture. Art fanatics visiting Brazzaville need to have a glimpse of this art gallery located au centre ville of Brazzaville. Les Dépêche de Brazzaville gallery, also known as the Congo Basin Gallery, is a space for intriguing art varying from paintings sculptures, masks and fabrics. This gallery is always filled with a variety of creations from past and present.

Shop at Le Marché de Poto Poto

Market

potopoto
Victoire Douniama / © Culture Trip

Your trip to Brazzaville would not be complete without discovering Poto Poto market. This is one of Brazzaville’s largest markets and home to immigrants from diverse backgrounds and countries such as Mali, Nigeria, The Ivory Coast and Chad – this market’s streets reflect the origins of its diverse inhabitants. Whether you would like to try local food or shop for souvenirs, Poto Poto market is the place to visit.

Enjoy local delicacies at Les Rapides Restaurant

Restaurant, African

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© Forest Service, USDA / Flickr

This African-inspired restaurant is located outdoors with a beautiful view alongside the Congo River – its menu of affordable local delicacies makes this place heaven for the eyes and the stomach. The view once again is breathtaking, towards the neighboring country of Congo Kinshasa.

Visit L’Institut Français du Congo

Art Gallery

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© L'Institut Français du Congo

L’Institut Français du Congo is the essential place to be in order to experience the artistic culture of Brazzaville. This place offers a variety of monthly activities such as music, theater, art exhibitions and debates. It’s the perfect place to discover local talent with a mix of French culture. This venue also offers Zumba nights for those interested in showing off their dancing skills.

About the author

Victoire Douniama is a freelance photographer and writer from the Republic of Congo. She is a major art fanatic, her appreciation for the arts is what sparked an interest in her to join CultureTrips freelance community and inspire people to learn more about The Republic of Congo. check out Victoire Instagram for her exceptional shots: @victoirephotography

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