Although the Central African Republic has seen a bit of political turmoil in recent years, the situation now seems relatively stable again.
Central African Republic has been a favorite hunting destination for rich Europeans for many years. The north of the country is remote but has some of the nicest game parks in the world. Even if you are not into killing animals, you can have a great time here just watching them. The best option for wildlife lovers is probably Dzanga Sangha reserve in the south.
The south of Central Africa is muddy and dominated by tropical rainforest. The Oubangui river separates the republic form Congo Kinshasa and is the life wire of the country. Bangui the capital is located on the banks of the river and so is Bangassou the second city.
Although Bangui is not an exiting place by Western standards, it has quite some charm. It is easy going most of the time and compared to neighbouring country has a lot to offer to visitors. Bangui is the capital of the Central African Republic. It is located in the southwestern part of the country. The city is situated on the western bank of the Oubangi River, the nation's main trade artery, across from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Bangui developed around a military post established by the French in 1889-90. It was the administrative center for the French territory of Ubangi-Chari and continued as the national capital when the country achieved independence as the Central African Republic in 1960. Bangui is the republic's chief port and its leading administrative, economic, and educational center. It has the only university of the country.
With its broad avenues, the beautiful hills and the river, Bangui certainly has some charm. Around the central market and the avenue Boganda there are always things going on. The centre of town is the place the la republique, where you find the Roman style triumphal arch of former emperor Bokassa. For nightlife head out 5 kilometer on Avenue Boganda until it intersects with Avenue Koudougou. You are in 'km5' as the locals call it: cheap restaurants, accommodation and nightclubs. The area may be somewhat unsafe, especially at night.
Parts of the Central African Republic are insecure because of banditry and the presence of armed groups. Despite a ceasefire with some rebel groups, insurgents still operate in some areas of the country. Travelers should consult the U.S. State Department's latest advisory before visiting the country.
The Central African Republic had been a favorite hunting destination for rich Europeans for many years. However, in recent years the country has experienced political turmoil.
The capital, Bangui, developed around a military post established by the French. The country, as the Central African Republic, achieved independence in 1960. The capital, located on the Oubangui River, is the nation's main port and its leading administrative, economic and educational center. After decades of mainly military rule, multiparty politics were established in 1993. Parts of the countryside remain unstable due to a rebellion against President Francois Bozize.
The north of the country is remote but has some excellent game parks. These include the Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Park, which is on the Unesco World Heritage list. Poachers are believed to have killed most of the park's wildlife and the park has been put on the List of World Heritage in Danger. Remaining wildlife includes elephants, black rhinos, cheetahs, buffaloes, gazelles and leopards. Poor security has hurt conservation efforts and tourism at the park. The Dzanga Sangha reserve in the south also has wildlife.
The Oubangui River is the country's main trade artery. On the other side is the Democratic Republic of Congo. With its setting among the hills and next to the river, Bangui has a certain amount of charm. Around the central market and the avenue Boganda activity flourishes. In the center of town is the Place de la Republique. Five kilometers out of town on Avenue Boganda is ?km5?, which has cheap restaurants, accommodation and nightclubs. However, be alert to crime, especially at night.