There are indeed two countries known as Congo, much like the distinction between North and South Korea, which are entirely separate entities despite sharing a common name. One of these countries is picturesque, developed, and safe for tourists, while the other is characterized by instability and isolation The Republic of Congo is welcoming, stunning, peaceful, and politically stable, and is a separate country from the DRC – the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This is the congo you may hear about in unfortunate news reports. However, their political instability has no impact on the ROC, the same as North Korea to South Korea.
Adventures like this are for those who desire
to experience the rare and extraordinary.
A rich tapestry of unspoiled forests, savannahs, rivers, and bais characterizes the Republic of Congo (ROC), established in 1935. The ROC has only 75 kilometers of road across 1.4 million hectares, making it one of the last most pristine ecosystems in Africa and possibly the world. It is the second-largest rainforest in the world and one of Africa’s oldest national parks, earning it the moniker “the left lung of the world.” Within this basin thrive the Western Lowland Gorilla, chimpanzee, Forest elephants, bongo, colobus monkeys, dwarf forest buffalo, red river hogs, and a significant population of African Grey Parrots. In our crowded and modern world, these last exceptional pristine and exclusive environments are rare and an incredible opportunity to witness something extraordinary.
Where do you want to see the footprints of your life?
Having been blessed to experience Africa before modernization, mobile phones, and Instagram, I experienced the raw, wild, untamed, and uncommercial Africa and I continue to chase those extremely few experiences left! I have long to visit the Congo since stepping foot on the continent nearly 20 years ago!
You might think remote means suffering accommodations, but you would be wrong. There are three small, private, charming African camps in the heart of the basin. Imagine being surrounded by the sounds of the most pristine, wild places filled with exotic wildlife, sleeping in comfortable beds, hot showers, delicious meals, cocktails, and listening to stories from the researchers and conservations around the campfire each night. I can’t wait!
More than a photographic and experience
Too often, we become overly fixated on crafting dynamic images and overlook the essence of experiencing the locations we are compelled to photograph. However, this is not the case in the Congo. Embarking on this journey will also be an epic adventure, akin to walking in the footsteps of the great explorers. You’ll trek alongside lowland gorillas, navigate kayaks and boats through pristine rivers, and explore the forest through walking tours and game drives. You will experience thrilling days of discoveries of rare and endangered wildlife with over 450 bird species and 100 mammal species.
Living in Kenya and operating as a fully licensed tour operator under Mackay Africa has brought about substantial and unforeseen advantages. By participating in the exclusive We Are Africa luxury market travel event in South Africa, my network has expanded in ways beyond my imagination. This networking opportunity has enabled me to offer this exceptional small group photographic safari to the Congo in 2025. This will only be offered once as a group with a photo tour leader. Future private trips can be booked through Mackay Africa, a renowned boutique tour operator across Africa.
In just a few weeks, I’ll be participating in the We Are Africa event once more. In 2026, I’ll be presenting another exclusive and exceptional one-time small group safari to………… Stay tuned and be sure to check our newsletters to join the priority notification list!
I am interested in the congo trip. I am not vaxed. Is there a requirement?
Michelle jaeger jones