10 Reasons to Get Lost in Brazzaville, Congo

Congo is a country of fashion lovers – this is a place where people love to express their style. If you’re a fashion fanatic and would like to design your very own clothes, getting lost in Congo might be a good decision for you. In Congo all neighbourhoods have at least a dozen tailor shops. Whether you want clothes made in African prints or just a generic fabric, you can trust the tailors in Brazzaville to help you design your own unique outfit. Hiring a tailor is very affordable – fabrics in Congo are equally very affordable and accessible, varying from different colours and textiles. You also get to decide the deadline for your outfit to be made. Plus, it will fit you perfectly as, after all, it is custom-made.

Ndombolo is a famous African dance from Congo, performed on the stage of famous Congolese musicians such as Koffi olomide, Papa Wemba or Fally Ipupa. If you don’t already know this heart-pumping dance then you might enjoy getting your groove on in one of the local pubs or shebeens in Brazzaville. Dancing is not only a good form of exercise, but it is also a great way to release stress. So, grab your dancing shoes and head to one of the local pubs to enjoy a refreshing beer, dance your heart out, and make friends with party lovers like yourself.

Don’t go to the spa, let the spa come to you. There’s no need to pay expensive amounts just to get a foot massage or get your nails done. In Brazzaville there are a number of street manicure specialists that offer to do people’s nails on the spot or at home, and they also offer foot massages. This is relaxing, therapeutic and extremely affordable unlike the price you would pay for a more formal spa treatment.

If you’re a fashion fanatic or you’re just simply fascinated by different cultures, then you might be interested in meeting Congolese Sapeurs. This fashion cult originates from the Republic of Congo. In fact, Sapeurs are known to be among the most stylish groups in African fashion culture. Coming to Brazzaville might be the perfect occasion to watch Sapeurs turn the streets of Brazzaville into a spectacular street fashion show. It is literally like watching the New York fashion week, African style.

Apart from the heart-pumping dance moves and fashion frenzy cultures, Brazzaville is also the perfect place to fill your stomach with delicious local delicacies, such as grilled fish and fried plantains with a side of chilli, or a taste of local African donuts also known as ‘mikate‘ in Lingala. Whatever choice you make, local Congolese food in Brazzaville will leave you craving for more.

Congo is well known for its beautiful natural resources, gigantic rainforest and exotic beaches. If you’re a nature lover or adventure seeker, you will be thrilled to visit all the breathtaking and exotic landscapes and beaches such as the Diosso Gorge or Pointe Indienne – picture-perfect for those who love to create visual memories.

Brazzaville is filled with local handmade goods such as shoes, bags, sculptures and paintings that are perfect as a souvenir of true Congolese talent and culture. Tourists coming to Congo can purchase local paintings at L’Ecole des Beaux Arts de Poto Poto – one of Brazzaville’s most famous art schools, where many students sell their paintings – or purchase African-inspired bags and shoes at Poto Poto market.