Central African Republic

The Land of Diversity
and Resilience

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The Central African Republic, a landlocked country in Central Africa, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. Home to landmarks like the capital city Bangui, the ancient ruins of Meroe, and the wildlife-rich Dzanga-Sangha National Park, the country offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The geography features savannas, rainforests, and rivers.

Central African culture is a vibrant mix of ethnic groups, reflected in its traditional music, dance, and art. Known for its warm hospitality and community spirit, the Central African Republic presents a captivating destination that combines cultural richness with natural wonders, despite facing significant political and economic challenges.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into the Central African Republic.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from the Central African Republic.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: No countries are fully visa-exempt for the Central African Republic. All travelers require a visa unless otherwise specified by diplomatic agreement.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from all nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering the Central African Republic, either through an embassy, high commission, or the e-Visa system.

Special Entry Provisions

  • No specific provisions exist for holders of Schengen, US, or UK visas or residence permits to enter the Central African Republic without a visa; a CAR-specific visa is required.
  • Travelers must have confirmed onward or return tickets and proof of sufficient funds for their stay, as well as a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter the Central African Republic using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (extendable with approval). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa durations vary; tourist stays are typically capped at 30 days unless extended.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Central African Republic embassy or high commission.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.
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Driving in CAR

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, the Central African Republic has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Bangui-Bouar road are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Central African Republic Road Authority.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Central African CFA Franc (XAF) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in the Central African Republic

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants, though enforcement is limited.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h
  • Road conditions: Extremely poor outside major cities like Bangui; unpaved, damaged, and unlit roads are common, especially during the rainy season (May to October). Armed conflict and banditry also pose risks.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a CAR driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: The Central African Republic has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Roads are highly hazardous due to poor maintenance, armed bandits, rebels, and unpredictable driving habits. Avoid all non-essential travel outside major cities.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable in rural areas; keep an updated physical map and a reliable communication device like a satellite phone.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 117 for police or 112 for emergencies (service may be limited, especially in rural areas and conflict zones).

Useful Links

Currency Menu

CAR Currency

The official currency of the Central African Republic is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 XAF
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500 XAF
  • Symbol: CFA

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Bangui M’Poko International Airport, and major hotels in Bangui.
  • ATMs are extremely limited and only available in Bangui for direct XAF withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards may not be accepted due to instability).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred and often the only option, especially outside urban areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are rarely accepted, limited to a few major hotels and banks in Bangui.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans, though card use may be unreliable.
  • Carry sufficient cash for all purchases, as electronic transactions are scarce.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when exchanging, but cash is the primary method.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Central African States website: https://www.beac.int/en/exchange-rates
Laws Menu

Legal Essentials for Traveling in CAR

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in the Central African Republic, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Severe penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs, including life imprisonment or execution. No tolerance for small amounts.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is illegal and punishable by fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in public buildings and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic issues, especially related to the ongoing conflict and rebel groups.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 2 years in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to the Central African Republic.
  • Photography: Prohibited near government buildings, military sites, checkpoints, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, as it may be perceived as a security threat.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, firearms, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Central African Republic Tourism Office or local police stations (if safe and accessible).

Beach Access

  • No specific legal mandate for public beach access, but coastal areas like along the Ubangi River are generally open to the public where applicable.

Key Resources

Safety Menu

CAR Travel Safety

The Central African Republic is not generally safe for travellers due to ongoing conflict, high crime rates, and instability, but some areas may be accessible with extreme caution and local guidance. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in the Central African Republic.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) and violent crime (e.g., armed robbery, kidnapping, and banditry) are widespread, especially in Bangui and rural areas. Violent crime against tourists is extremely common due to ongoing conflict and rebel activity.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Highly unsafe; avoid traveling alone due to security risks, gender-based violence, and conflict zones. Local guidance is essential.

Road Safety

  • Driving is extremely risky due to poor road conditions, armed bandits, rebels, and checkpoints on major routes.
  • Avoid all night driving outside major cities due to unlit roads, bandits, and rebel activity.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, but enforcement is non-existent in many areas.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is unsafe; use bottled or purified water.
    • Eat well-cooked food to avoid diarrhea, cholera, or typhoid.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Required: Yellow fever (for all travelers over 1 year old).
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies, meningitis, malaria prophylaxis, and COVID-19.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria, yellow fever, dengue, and African sleeping sickness are widespread; use repellent, bed nets, and prophylactic medication.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 1,420 meters (Mont Ngaoui).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Extremely limited; private facilities like the Community Hospital in Bangui offer basic care, but rural areas lack any advanced care. Medical evacuation is often necessary.
  • Pharmacies: Available in Bangui; stock essential medications, but supplies can be unreliable.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes comprehensive medical evacuation, as local facilities are inadequate.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (patchy service, especially in rural areas and conflict zones).
  • Police: 117 | Ambulance: 119 | Fire: 118.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact the French Embassy in Bangui (+236 21 61 08 00) or local authorities (if safe).

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 with armed security for rural travel; confirm insurance coverage and avoid public transport.
  • Hiking: Avoid all hiking due to security risks and lack of infrastructure.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or conflict-related issues.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor dust levels during dry seasons (November to March).

Key Links

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Flying to CAR