Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR) city tour

I previously did a post on Central African Republic but it's focus on generally different parts of Western and Southern Central African Republic and also Dzangha Sangha national.

However, I feel that Bangui, the national capital of the CAR deserves a post on its own as it is an interesting place, totally untouched by tourism and it's most likely the first place of arrival for most people if coming via air.

I would also like to give some advice and expectation for people wanting to visit the CAR as below

1) Photography - it's important to always ask permission before taking photography of anything.

You cannot freely take out your camera and photograph anything as and when you like especially in crowded places like Central Market, Marche Combatant, Muslim Quarter, PK5 etc.

You will most likely get surrounded and given a hard time. If you have a guide, always ask the guide before taking photograph.

Also, under CAR law, photography of the following is not allowed

- government buildings

- Military installation and military personnel ( this is tricky as military personnel may not be always fully uniform and a small shack/hut could be a military check post so be vigilant)

- beggars and street children

2) Electricity - Power cuts are frequent. You can expect it more or less on most days. Even the so called "best hotel" Ledger Plaza has a broken generator so expect A/C to be out anytime.

3) Internet- can be a bit sporadic, even in the capital. 3G is the best you can get. You buy a local Sim card easily.

4) Wagner (or Ex): They are everywhere. You will first come in contact with them upon arrival at Bangui Mpoko airport. But do not worry about them, they will not bother you as long as you do not photograph them

(Photo description)

Photo 1 and 5: Street along the Ubungi River

Photo 4,6,7: Sand Harvesting at the Ubungi River

Photo 2,3,9,10,1112,13,14: Life along the Ubungi River (taken from a boat ride along the river

Photo 8: Former Sofitel Bangui. Used to be the most luxury hotel in Bangui ( and one of the most in Africa) but is now operating as Ubungi Hotel and is a rather run down and poorly mantained 3 star hotel.

Photo 15: Marche Combatant

Photo 16: Downtown Bangui

Photo 17: View of Zongo, Democratic Republic of Congo. Yes, DRC is just across the river from Bangui

Photo 18 to 20: Central Market

I just hope you share with you guys some interesting photo of Bangui.

It's a capital city that is totally untouched by tourism

There are very few tall buildings too.