Travel Advice
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Warning

Travellers should defer travel to the Central African Republic due to the level of crime and highway banditry, especially in the northern and eastern region of the country. United Nations peacekeeping forces provide relative security for travel within the capital city of Bangui. Travel by road outside Bangui is dangerous due to armed bandits. Travel by car outside of Bangui at night is discouraged.

Country Description

The Central African Republic (CAR) is a developing African country. Facilities for tourism are limited. The Dzanga-Sangha National Park, a primeval rain forest, is in the southwestern region of the country.

Entry Requirements

A passport and visa are required. Current information on entry requirements should be obtained from your nearest embassy.

Due to its inability to provide security arrangements for foreigners traveling outside Bangui, the CAR Government in October 1997 closed all points of entry for tourists into the CAR, except for the airport in Bangui. CAR citizens and citizens of neighboring countries are not affected by this government decree.

Areas of Instability

Following three military mutinies in Bangui in 1996 and 1997, leading to violence and looting, international peacekeeping forces have been maintaining order in the city. Travellers should avoid political rallies and street demonstrations and maintain security awareness at all times. Political campaigns for presidential elections in September 1999 may increase the risk of violence from July to November 1999.

Crime Information

Street crime in downtown Bangui, while uncommon, does occur. Armed gangs operate in outlying residential areas, although police anti-crime efforts have somewhat reduced this problem. Armed highway robbery in rural areas is common, especially in the dry season from December until May. When a crime does occur, the victim may have to pay to send a vehicle to pick up police officers due to the shortage of police vehicles.

The loss or theft abroad of a passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the consular section of your national embassy.

Medical Facilities

Medical facilities are limited, and the quality of acute care is unreliable. Health practitioners and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health care services.

Medical Insurance

Check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation. Ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Other Health Information

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions should be obtained prior to travel.

Traffic Safety & Road Conditions

The information below concerning CAR is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Poor
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor

Due to the risk of armed attacks on motorists in the central and northern region, overland travel in these areas, without a military escort, should be avoided. Most remote areas in the country that are frequented by tourists and hunters are accessible by four-wheel drive vehicles, although some roads are not passable during the rainy season (May through October).

Criminal Penalties

While in a foreign country, travellers are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly and may not afford the protections available to the individual under their home country. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe for similar offenses. Persons violating CAR law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in CAR are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Prohibitions On Photography

Taking photographs of police or military installations, and government buildings, is prohibited. These official buildings and installations are often unmarked. Unauthorized photography may result in seizure of photographic equipment by Central African Republic authorities. Police or other government authorities can provide information and grant permission for photographing a particular subject or location.

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