Sangha Trinational
Location: Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki Southwestern Central African Republic
Year of Inscription: 2012
Criteria: (ix) an outstanding example representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals.
Overview: The Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki is a protected area located in the southwest corner of the Central African Republic. It covers an area of 4,357 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and hundreds of bird species. It shares it's UNESCO Sangha Traditional listing with Cameroon and Republic of Congo
Prominent Features: The park is characterized by its dense tropical rainforest, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can take guided walks and treks through the forest to spot animals and learn about the park's ecology and conservation. The park also features several clearings known as "bai," where visitors can observe groups of forest elephants and other wildlife as they gather to drink and socialize.
History: The Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki was established in 1988 to protect the region's unique flora and fauna. The park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2012, in recognition of its outstanding ecological and biological significance.
Family-Friendly Activities: The park offers several family-friendly activities, including guided walks and treks through the forest, birdwatching tours, and visits to the park's clearings to observe wildlife. Children will enjoy learning about the park's wildlife and ecology through interactive exhibits at the visitor center.
Fun Fact: The park is home to a research station where scientists study the behavior and ecology of gorillas and other primates. Visitors can participate in gorilla tracking expeditions led by experienced researchers and guides.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for the Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki varies depending on the activities and attractions visited. Guided walks and treks typically cost around 50,000 CFA (approximately 90 USD) per person, while gorilla tracking expeditions can cost several hundred dollars per person. It is important to note that the park is only open during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
How to Reach it: The Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki is located in the southwest corner of the Central African Republic, near the borders of Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. The easiest way to reach the park is to fly into the capital city of Bangui, and then take a domestic flight to the town of Bayanga, which is the gateway to the park. There are also some international flights that fly directly to Bayanga's airstrip.
Alternatively, visitors can travel to the park by road from Bangui, which takes approximately two days and requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle and experienced driver. It is also possible to enter the park from Cameroon or the Republic of Congo, although these routes can be more challenging and require a high-clearance vehicle and experienced driver.
Where to Stay: The park offers several accommodation options, including campsites, lodges, and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Sangha Lodge, the Doli Lodge, and the Bai Hoko Lodge. It is recommended to book accommodation and activities in advance through a reputable tour operator to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the park.
Next Stop: Sangha Trinational Republic of Congo
Year of Inscription: 2012
Criteria: (ix) an outstanding example representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals.
Overview: The Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki is a protected area located in the southwest corner of the Central African Republic. It covers an area of 4,357 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and hundreds of bird species. It shares it's UNESCO Sangha Traditional listing with Cameroon and Republic of Congo
Prominent Features: The park is characterized by its dense tropical rainforest, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can take guided walks and treks through the forest to spot animals and learn about the park's ecology and conservation. The park also features several clearings known as "bai," where visitors can observe groups of forest elephants and other wildlife as they gather to drink and socialize.
History: The Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki was established in 1988 to protect the region's unique flora and fauna. The park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2012, in recognition of its outstanding ecological and biological significance.
Family-Friendly Activities: The park offers several family-friendly activities, including guided walks and treks through the forest, birdwatching tours, and visits to the park's clearings to observe wildlife. Children will enjoy learning about the park's wildlife and ecology through interactive exhibits at the visitor center.
Fun Fact: The park is home to a research station where scientists study the behavior and ecology of gorillas and other primates. Visitors can participate in gorilla tracking expeditions led by experienced researchers and guides.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for the Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki varies depending on the activities and attractions visited. Guided walks and treks typically cost around 50,000 CFA (approximately 90 USD) per person, while gorilla tracking expeditions can cost several hundred dollars per person. It is important to note that the park is only open during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
How to Reach it: The Parc National de Dzanga-Ndoki is located in the southwest corner of the Central African Republic, near the borders of Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. The easiest way to reach the park is to fly into the capital city of Bangui, and then take a domestic flight to the town of Bayanga, which is the gateway to the park. There are also some international flights that fly directly to Bayanga's airstrip.
Alternatively, visitors can travel to the park by road from Bangui, which takes approximately two days and requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle and experienced driver. It is also possible to enter the park from Cameroon or the Republic of Congo, although these routes can be more challenging and require a high-clearance vehicle and experienced driver.
Where to Stay: The park offers several accommodation options, including campsites, lodges, and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Sangha Lodge, the Doli Lodge, and the Bai Hoko Lodge. It is recommended to book accommodation and activities in advance through a reputable tour operator to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the park.
Next Stop: Sangha Trinational Republic of Congo