Traffic and Road Conditions in Congo, Republic of the

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions

While in the Republic of the Congo, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Traffic safety in general is hazardous due to high speeds, aggressive driving, poorly maintained vehicles, and general indifference toward the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. The information below concerning the Republic of the Congo is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Road conditions are generally poor and deteriorate significantly during the rainy season from November to May. The National Highway 2, which links Brazzaville to Pointe Noire, is largely unpaved and often impassable in the rainy season. Unleaded gasoline and diesel fuel are frequently unavailable in the major cities and especially in the more isolated regions of the country. Maintenance of the few paved roads is limited. Overland travel off the main roads requires a four-wheel drive vehicle. Poorly-marked checkpoints, sometimes manned by undisciplined soldiers, exist in many areas of the countryside.

Bus travel is strongly discouraged. While there are no officially registered taxi companies in Brazzaville or Pointe-Noire, taxis are required to have an operator permit. Many taxi drivers are owner-operators. In the past several years, there have not been any reported criminal incidents involving U.S. citizens using taxis in Brazzaville or Pointe Noire. Hire only taxis painted in the government-authorized green and white color scheme in Brazzaville and blue and white color scheme in Pointe Noire. Taxis are not metered, so fares should be negotiated before passengers embark. Most taxi drivers will always round-up fares or not return change.

Emergency services are limited within Brazzaville and Pointe Noire and virtually non-existent elsewhere in the Republic of the Congo. Please refer to the medical section above.

There are currently no Distracted Driving Laws in effect in the Republic of the Congo, but police may pull over drivers who talk or text while driving for not following safe driving procedures.

Disclaimer

You are responsible for ensuring that you meet and comply with foreign entry requirements, health requirements and that you possess the appropriate travel documents. Information provided is subject to change without notice. One should confirm content prior to traveling from other reliable sources. Information published on this website may contain errors. You travel at your own risk and no warranties or guarantees are provided by us.

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