Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo, sits on the north bank of the Congo River — directly opposite Kinshasa, making it one of Africa's most accessible capitals. Here is everything delegates need to plan the journey.
By Air — Maya-Maya International Airport (BZV)
Maya-Maya International Airport is approximately 6 km from the city centre (15–20 minutes by car). Brazzaville is served by direct and one-stop connections from major hubs:
- Paris (CDG) — Air France, direct
- Addis Ababa (ADD) — Ethiopian Airlines, connecting the widest network of African and international cities
- Nairobi (NBO) — Kenya Airways
- Casablanca (CMN) — Royal Air Maroc
- Istanbul (IST) — Turkish Airlines
- Lomé (LFW) — ASKY Airlines, serving West & Central Africa
- Regional links to Douala, Libreville, Kinshasa, Pointe-Noire and more
Tip: book early — capacity on direct routes fills quickly during major conference weeks.
From Kinshasa — the river crossing
Delegates connecting through Kinshasa (FIH/N'djili, DRC) can cross the Congo River by public ferry or speedboat between Kinshasa's Beach Ngobila and Brazzaville's river port — the crossing itself takes around 20 minutes. Ensure your travel documents are valid for both countries; the organising team will publish dedicated crossing guidance for registered delegates.
Visas & entry requirements
- Most delegates require a visa for the Republic of the Congo — check with your nearest Congolese embassy or consulate early.
- Registered delegates will receive an official invitation letter to support visa applications — request it from the organising team after registering.
- Special visa facilitation arrangements for the event (e-visa / visa-on-arrival) will be announced by the host authorities — details to be confirmed.
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry.
Airport transfers & getting around
- Shuttle services between Maya-Maya Airport, official hotels and the venue will operate during the event week (schedule to be confirmed).
- Hotel taxis and pre-arranged transfers are recommended; agree fares in advance for city taxis.
- The city centre, ministries and main hotels are all within a short drive of one another.
Good to know
- Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF); major hotels accept international cards — carry some cash for taxis and markets.
- Languages: French (official), Lingala and Kituba widely spoken.
- Time zone: West Africa Time (UTC+1) — no daylight saving.
- Dialling code: +242 · Electricity: 230V, plug types C & E.
- November weather: warm and humid (≈24–31°C) with short rains — pack light clothing and a compact umbrella.
This travel guidance is indicative and will be updated as host-country arrangements are confirmed.