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About Central African Republic

The Central African Republic (CAR) is a country in Sub-Saharan Africa bordered by Cameroon, Chad, Sudan, The Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Republic of Congo. The country is undoubtedly one of the richest in natural resources such as diamonds, gold, uranium and oil. CAR, like most African nations has an impressive showing of wildlife in its natural plains and countrysides. 

The country is remote and not very developed and so any visit to it certainly promises a true adventure. Its capital city is Bangui.

CAR has a tropical climate with abundant rainfall in the south and much less in the northeast. It has a rainy season from November to March and a long, hot and dry season from April to November. Visitors in the country should wear light and sensible cotton clothing and sturdy, comfortable shoes to navigate the terrain.

The country is multi-ethnic, having up to 80 tribes living in it. The most dominant tribes are the Baya people who make up 33% of the population, the Banda people who make up 27% of the population, the Mandjia who make up 13% of the population and the Sara who make up 10% of the population. Staple foods in CAR are gombo (okra), rice, tomatoes, onions, bananas. They favour chicken and goat meat.

Although not nearly the richest or most peaceful nation, this country has a number of interesting locations to explore nature and history. Some of these places are:
  • Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park: This park is located at the border between CAR and Chad and is a spectacular spot to experience wildlife. It is home to the very rare black rhino, elephants, leopards,etc.
  • Dzanga-Ndoki National Park: This massive park is the perfect place to spot elephants, gorillas, and other impressive wildlife. The park offers guided tours and although it struggles to survive poaching and other such activities, it is one of the top tourist locations in CAR.
  • Boali falls: This is  probably the landmark tourist location in CAR. It consists of a number of separate falls which join together in the wet season to form the spectacular Boali falls. There are several tourism companies to show visitors around the area and a good number of restaurants and hotels atop the falls.
  • Tajuna: Just on the outskirts of the town of Bouar, there are a number of stone megaliths of varying heights. They are locally known as Tajuna. The stones are believed to mark ancient graves and this site holds such an important place in the history of CAR that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Lobaye: Lobaye is a town not so far from the capital.  It is a hub of indigenous peoples and visiting this town is one of the best ways to interact with and experience the tribes of CAR. These people are also known for making some great coffee and would usually take visitors around the plantation.

Although CAR is abundantly rich in natural resources, it remains one of the poorest countries in the world. CAR has five national parks and 33 protected areas.
Accommodation in CAR ranges from luxury to standard.

Central African Republic key facts

Capital:

Bangui

Languages Spoken:

French,Sango

Demonym:

Central African

Currency Name:

Central African CFA franc

Currency Code:

XAF

Currency Symbol:

Fr

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How do I travel out of Central African Republic?

Get Visa from Central African Republic

For Central Africans looking to travel out of the country. You can check out the list of destinations, how to Get Visa to those countries, Embassies in Central African Republic and Visa Free Countries for Central African passport holders

Common Questions Travellers Ask About Central African Republic

Q: What is the main religion in CAR?


A: CAR is about 90% Christian and 9% Muslim.

Q: Is CAR safe to visit?


A: CAR is not a safe country to visit and you are strongly advised  not to visit the country unless future developments render it safe.

Q: What is the official language of CAR?


A: The official languages of CAR are French and Sangho.

Q: What country colonized CAR?


A: CAR was colonized by France.

Q: What is CAR’s official unit of currency?


A: CAR’s official unit of currency is the Central African Franc.

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