Primates & Birding: Congo, São Tomé & Príncipe
My Dream Trip by
Megan Bryant, Africa & Indian Ocean Destination Manager
Be a part of pioneering sustainable tourism in west central Africa. In the Republic of the Congo, venture deep into the rainforest to see western lowland gorillas, as well as forest elephant, forest buffalo and other unique mammals. Then head offshore to the convivial, neighboring islands of São Tomé & Príncipe to spot hundreds of species of colorful, endemic birds and delve into the islands’ Portuguese history.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Brazzaville today, you will be met by your Cox & Kings representative and transferred to your hotel. Mikhael’s Hotel –
1-night
Fly by light aircraft charter to the 3.3 million-acre Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the northwest of the country. First established in 1935, the park was greatly expanded in 2001 with the help of the local community. Your luxury tented camp features six en suite, eco-friendly tented rooms raised on platforms nine feet off the ground, which allows game to move freely underneath them. Lango Camp – 3-nights (B, L, D)
Search for rare mammals and birds on guided walks through the savanna and the bais, which are swampy, grassy areas. Climb to raised platform hides to watch rare forest-dwelling mammals, such as forest elephant, forest buffalo, duiker, sitatunga, and the reclusive bongo, come to the bais in search of salt. And don’t forget to look to the skies to see any number of colorful, tropical birds. (B, L, D)
Depart the savannah to delve deeper into the forest in Ngaga Camp. Your luxury, tented room with en suite facilities is the perfect base camp from which to explore the forest in search of western lowland gorillas. Ngaga Camp – 3-nights (B, L, D)
The Ndzehi area is home to western lowland gorillas, as well 13 other primate species, including chimpanzee. There are now 6 habituated gorilla families, comprising about 55 individual gorillas — and viewing does not require permits and is not limited in time. The western lowland gorillas are one of four species found in Africa; they have shorter hair than their cousins the mountain gorillas found in Rwanda and Uganda. (B, L, D)
After breakfast, leave Ngaga for a 2.5-hour drive to Mboko Airstrip, from where you will fly back to Brazzaville. Mikhael’s Hotel – 1-night (B)
Journey west by charter flight to the equatorial nation of São Tomé & Príncipe, sister islands located in the Gulf of Guinea just off the coast of west-central Africa. After a scenic, half-hour flight, arrive on the smaller of the two islands, Príncipe, and head to the beach.
Bom Bom Resort boasts 21 en suite, air-conditioned bungalows. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk to reach the restaurant, bar and marina. Relax in the swimming pool or on one of two private beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, the resort’s dive center can help you explore the underwater paradise just offshore. Bom Bom Island Resort – 3-nights (B, L, D)
This convivial republic is a little piece of paradise, with rainforests, waterfalls and a number of endemic birds, including the world’s smallest ibis and largest sunbird. It’s also an important nesting site for hawksbill sea turtles. The day is yours and the sky is the limit. Fish, dive, snorkel, hike or take a tour of the island. From July to September, look for whales in the crystal-clear waters. (B, L, D)
The rustic, friendly town of Santo Antonio is a photographer’s dream. Explore the fish and fresh produce markets, and visit some of the old Portuguese shops. Chat with the pharmacist about natural remedies, sample the local delicacies and make some new friends before returning to your resort for a last evening. (B, L, D)
Fly to São Tomé today and board your onward flight. (B)
Extend Your Journey
Big Cat Safari
Diverse Habitats of South Africa
Rwanda: Great Ape Safari
Quintessential Kenya
- Experience luxury in eco-friendly tree house camps
- Spend time observing habituated families of Western Lowland Gorillas
- Search for rare species of forest elephant, forest buffalo and sitatunga in the bais (open patches in the forest)
- Witness the world’s largest sunbird and world’s smallest ibis in São Tomé & Príncipe
- Observe migrating whales in the Gulf of Guinea between July and September
12 DAYS & 11 NIGHTS
Brazzaville, Odzala-Kokoua National Park, São Tomé & Príncipe
2012 Dates:
Sep 12 - 23
Internal Air
Prices From:
$9,570
$1,665
Note:
Note: Pricing based on 10 passengers, a supplement of $500 per person applies if group is 8 passengers or $1,615 per person if the group is only 6 passengers. For a Private Journeys, please contact your travel consultant. Single supplement upon request.
Includes:
Accommodation and meal basis as described. Transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle. Internal flights (if applicable) Fully escorted by an English-speaking guide throughout and entrance fees into historical sites and museums.