Africa
Rainforest, forest elephants and a country far off the tourist map.
The Central African Republic sits at the heart of the continent, a landscape of savannah in the north and dense rainforest in the south-west. Its best-known natural area is Dzanga-Sangha, part of the cross-border Sangha Trinational UNESCO site, where forest elephants gather at the Dzanga Bai clearing and western lowland gorillas are tracked with local BaAka guides. Bangui sits on the Ubangi River.
The country has been affected by prolonged conflict and insecurity, and most governments advise against all travel. Travellers should check their government's current travel advice before planning a trip. The few visitors who come usually travel with specialist operators and fly in. Cassava, bushmeat and river fish are staples. The dry season from December to February is the most practical period for access to the forest.
January, February, December.