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Safaris in Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve
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Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve guide
Overview
Dzanga-Sangha, in the far southwest of the Central African Republic, is a protected area of dense rainforest established in 1990. It is managed by the government with the support of WWF and forms part of the Sangha Trinational, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared with Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo.
The area is also home to the BaAka people, whose knowledge of the forest is central to the reserve’s tracking and guiding.
Wildlife
The reserve is known for Dzanga Bai, a large forest clearing where forest elephants gather, sometimes in large numbers, to drink and dig for minerals. Habituated groups of western lowland gorillas can be tracked with BaAka trackers, and the forest also supports chimpanzee, bongo, sitatunga, forest buffalo, many monkeys and rich birdlife.
Key wildlife
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: Dec–Mar. Also good: Apr–May.
Peak Good Quieter
The drier months, from about December to March, are generally the easiest time to visit. Rain is possible all year. Malaria is present, so speak to a travel clinic about prevention.
Getting There
The nearest international airport is Bangui M’Poko International Airport (BGF). The reserve is far from Bangui and is usually reached by charter flight to Bayanga or by a long overland journey.
Fees & Access
Entrance fees
The reserve’s most recent published visitor tariff, for 2019–2020, lists gorilla tracking at €300 per person, with a maximum of three visitors per group. Entry and activity fees have probably changed since then, so confirm current rates with the reserve before you travel.
Gate hours
Confirm with the park authority before travel
Health
Malaria risk: High. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials before you go.
Fees and gate times change. Check the latest rates with the park authority before you travel.
Safety and Advisories
Several governments currently advise against all travel to the Central African Republic, or all but essential travel to parts of it. Check your own government’s current travel advisory before making any plans, and follow it. We do not give travel advice beyond what official advisories say.
Location
Where is Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve?
Good to know
Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve FAQs
What is Dzanga Bai?
Dzanga Bai is a large forest clearing where forest elephants gather, sometimes in large numbers, to drink and dig for minerals.
Can you track gorillas in Dzanga-Sangha?
Yes. Habituated western lowland gorillas can be tracked with BaAka trackers, in small groups of up to three visitors.
How much is gorilla tracking in Dzanga-Sangha?
The most recent published tariff, for 2019–2020, lists €300 per person. Prices have probably changed, so confirm the current rate with the reserve.
Is it safe to visit Dzanga-Sangha?
Several governments advise against all travel to the Central African Republic, or all but essential travel to parts of it. Check your own government’s current travel advisory and follow it.
How do you get to Dzanga-Sangha?
The reserve is far from Bangui M’Poko International Airport (BGF) and is usually reached by charter flight to Bayanga or by a long overland journey.
When is the best time to visit Dzanga-Sangha?
The drier months from about December to March are generally easiest, although rain is possible all year.
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