Established in 1935 during the French colonial rule in Congo, Odzala is one of the oldest national parks in Africa. It is located in the rain forests of Congo near the Gabon border.
The park covers an area of about 13,500 kilometers squared of panoramic landscape of the world’s second largest rainforest found in Mbomo Cuvette-ouestregion. Odzala national park has got the highest number of prates and chimpanzees in central Africa.
Adding to over 100 mammal species including western lowland Gorillas, 450 species of birds, Odzala is known for the large herds of forest elephants.
All these animals, birds, reptiles and insects breathe life in the park’s diverse biodiversity. Apart from rainforests, there are swamps, rivers, salts, steep escarpment, minerals, sedges, Savannah grasslands.
The best time to visit Odzala national park is during the dry season. During this period it is easier to see the animals since the vegetation is not thicker. Odzala experiences two dry seasons in its two different areas.
In the southern part, the dry season is from April to October. The northern part experiences low rainfalls from December to February.
Activities to enjoy in the Park
Gorilla trekking
With no doubt gorilla trekking is the main activity in this park. This adventure is rewarding and grants an opportunity to meet these rarely seen animals in their natural habitats.
Once in the jungle you can as well see other primates like crowned monkey, mustached monkey, chimpanzees, Allen’s swamp monkey, guereza colobus putty nosed monkey, agile Mangebay, red tailed monkey and de Brazza monkey. The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years of age.
Wildlife viewing
Odzala national park plays host to thousands of elusive forest elephants you can see at mineral licks. Its Vegetation favors many other animals apart from gorillas.
A game drive is enough to expose you to animals like the red River hog, duikers, and hippos at the Lekoli River, water chevrotain, forest buffalos, bushbucks, Sitatunga, and bongo.
For best views don’t hesitate to do the drive along the river banks, mineral and salt licks.
Bird watching
For those who love birds, make sure not to ignore birding on your bucket list for Odzala. This protected area houses over 400 species of birds including the endemic species.
Common birds you can see here are black guinea fowl, forest swallow, African grey parrots to name but a few.
Cultural experience
If you want culture, the nearby village of Ombo is for you. Tourists go there to interact with the local people and as well be introduced to different things like local food, their attires and various activities they carry out in their communities.
Boat cruises
Another interesting activity in Odzala is the boat cruise at the Lekoli River. It rewards tourists with unending views of primates, towering mountain ranges, birds and other aquatic species.