Brazzaville
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At a glance
- Country
- Congo
- Region
- Brazzaville
- Population
- 2 million
- Best time to go
- June to September
- Main airport
- Brazzaville Maya-Maya International (BZV)
- Coordinates
- 4.26°S, 15.24°E
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Overview
Brazzaville faces Kinshasa across the Congo River, the two closest capital cities in the world after Rome and Vatican City. It is greener and calmer than its giant neighbour, with leafy avenues, riverside terraces and a strong artistic tradition.
Music and painting run deep here. Spend an evening listening to Congolese rumba, watch the river surge through the rapids at sunset, and visit the painters' studios of Poto-Poto.
Things to see
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Photo: Henri van der Noot, CC BY-SA 4.0 Basilica of Sainte-Anne
A striking 1940s church with a green-tiled roof and soaring pointed arches, a landmark of the city.
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Photo: Cethuyghe, CC BY-SA 4.0 Congo River rapids
Just downstream from the city, the great river churns through rocky rapids, spectacular at sunset.
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Photo: Africany, CC0 Brazza Memorial
A white marble mausoleum and museum dedicated to the city's founder, Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Unsonique, PD Nabemba Tower
The country's tallest building, a modern landmark visible from across the river.
Things to do
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Visit the Poto-Poto painters
The famous school of painting in the Poto-Poto district still trains artists and sells their work.
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Photo: Jeanne Vu Van, CC BY-SA 4.0 Listen to Congolese rumba
The UNESCO-listed music of both Congos is best heard live in a bar or nightclub.
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Lésio-Louna reserve
A reserve a few hours north where orphaned gorillas have been returned to the wild, set in rolling savannah and forest.
Where to stay
Centre-ville
Close to the river, ministries and the main hotels and restaurants.
Hotels in Centre-villePoto-Poto
Lively and authentic, with markets, artists and local bars.
Hotels in Poto-PotoBacongo
Southern district known for its music scene and sapeurs, the city's famously stylish dressers.
Hotels in Bacongo
Getting around
Green-and-white taxis are plentiful and the best way to get about; agree fares first. Walking is pleasant along the river in daytime.
Maya-Maya airport is close to the centre, a short taxi ride away. Ferries cross the river to Kinshasa.
When to go
The dry season from June to September is cooler and cloudier, the most comfortable time. October to May is hot and humid, with heavy rain.
Plan your trip to Brazzaville
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.