Central African Republic Travel Information

The security of the Central African Republic (SAR) is poor in much of the country including in the capital Bang¨¹i. However, the situation in Bang¨¹i has improved somewhat since the turn of the year 2014/2015 due in particular to the increased presence of international security forces. According to Abbreviationfinder, CAF stands for Central African Republic in geography.

Safety

The security of the Central African Republic (SAR) is poor in much of the country including in the capital Bang¨¹i.

However, the situation in Bang¨¹i has improved somewhat since the turn of the year 2014/2015 due in particular to the increased presence of international security forces. In western parts of the SAR, including along the main transport years to Cameroon, security has also improved somewhat. However, basic security challenges still characterize SAR and will do so for a long time to come. The central power including police, judiciary and administration is weak and often has little presence and control in the districts. The ex-Seleka and anti-Balaka rebel movements control various parts of the country.

Lack of government control and the presence of the rebel movement poses a significant risk of crime and violent crime both in parts of Bang¨¹i and abroad. In general, moving around without solid security measures is associated with danger. Kidnappings and kidnapping attempts from different parts of the country have been reported. Government-controlled check posts in and around the capital can be difficult to pass without bribes, although the number has been reduced following efforts by international security forces. In addition, there are check records in the districts controlled by rebel groups or criminals.

  • Countryaah: Bangui is the capital of Central African Republic. Check to find information of population, geography, history, and economy about the capital city.

Photo bans are strictly practiced and photography should only be done with permission.

Major Landmarks in Central African Republic

Entry

Please note that entry regulations may change. The Foreign Service is not responsible if the following information on entry regulations or visa requirements is changed at short notice. It is the responsibility of the traveler to ensure that travel documents are valid for entry and to familiarize themselves with the current entry rules for each country.

Norwegians need a visa to visit the Central African Republic.

A valid passport, visa and yellow fever vaccine certificate are required for entry into the country. Contact the Central African Republic Embassy in Paris (tel: + 33 1 42244256). French embassies can also usually print an entry visa to the Central African Republic (SAR).

It is the responsibility of the traveler to ensure that travel documents and visas are valid.

Health

Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with official health professional travel advice, guidance and overview of recommended vaccines at the Institute of Public Health.

Visitors must at all times carry a vaccination card with proof that they have taken the vaccine against yellow fever. This is strictly enforced upon entry. SAR is located in the meningococcal belt that extends from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east. Since the mid-1990s, the incidence of meningitis in this area has been very high. Vaccination against meningitis is therefore recommended. Contact the Department of Public Health or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before departure to find out which other vaccines are required.

Health care is very limited and in many places non-existent. Therefore, unless you are acutely ill, you should seek medical help in the capital.

Practical information

The Central African Republic (SAR) has poorly developed infrastructure and much of the country is inaccessible. The Oubangui River is navigable for seagoing vessels below Bangui. Only international airport is Mpoko outside Bang¨¹i.

There are a few ATMs in the country, and money can be exchanged at banks in Bang¨¹i, Berb¨¦rati and at hotels. Opening hours in the banks 07-11.30, Monday to Friday. The fees at the hotels are often very high.

National Holidays – Republic Day, December 1st.

Time difference: GMT +1.
According to allcitycodes, country Code is +236. The telephone network, both for landline and the mobile network, is limited outside the capital.

The SAR language is French (official), Sango (national), and other local languages.

Possession of any type of drug is strictly prohibited and severely punished.

Travelers should always bring a passport or a copy of the passport.

It is forbidden to photograph public buildings, military installations and their surroundings. The police or public authorities may issue permits to photograph special areas. In practice, all photography requires permission. Otherwise, you may be exposed to unpleasantness and attempts to push bribes/corruption. Ask for permission before taking pictures of the locals.