central african republic travel

Update April 12, 2024

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Central African Republic

Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Central african republic - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Do not travel to the Central African Republic (CAR) due to Embassy Bangui’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

Country Summary : Although there have been no specific incidents of violence or threats targeting U.S. citizens, civil unrest, demonstrations, and election-related violence (including renewed outbreaks of armed conflict) may occur throughout the country, including the capital of Bangui.

Violent crime, such as armed robbery, aggravated battery, and homicide, is common.

Armed groups control large areas of the country and they regularly kidnap, injure, and/or kill civilians.  In the event of unrest, airport, land border, and road closures may occur with little or no notice.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Central African Republic; U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel outside the Embassy compound.  Family members cannot accompany U.S. government employees who work in the Central African Republic.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to CAR.

If you decide to travel to Central African Republic (CAR): 

• Enroll your trip in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs, if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.   Find a suggested list of such documents here .
• Be sure to appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and Members of Congress, if you are taken hostage or detained.
• Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones can know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax).
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
• Erase any sensitive photos, comments, or other materials from your social media pages, cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices that could be considered controversial or provocative by local groups.
• Leave your expensive/sentimental belongings behind.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Central African Republic (CAR).
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

One page required for entry stamp.

Yellow Fever.

All currency must be declared upon entry.

Embassies and Consulates

The U.S. Embassy in Bangui does not provide consular services at this time. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde.

U.S. Embassy in Yaounde, Cameroon

Avenue Rosa Parks P.O. Box 817 Yaounde, Cameroon Telephone: +(237) 22220-1500 ext. 4341/4023 (Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. local time) Emergencies: +(237) 22220-1500, ext. 4531 or +(237) 22222-25-893 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Travelers entering CAR are required to have:

• A valid passport with at least one blank page
• Evidence of yellow fever vaccination

Visas are no longer available upon arrival in the Central African Republic. You must obtain your visa in advance of travel to avoid excessive fees and unexpected potential travel interruptions imposed at the port of entry. Visit the  Embassy of CAR website  for the most current visa information.

For visa and entry requirement information contact:

• The  Embassy of the Central African Republic , 2704 Ontario Road, NW, Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone: (202) 483–7800 / 7801, fax: (202) 332–9893. 
• Outside the United States, contact the nearest CAR Embassy or, if none in the country, the nearest French Embassy.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of CAR.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to CAR. U.S. Embassy Bangui cannot provide consular services to U.S. citizens in CAR at this time. U.S. citizens in need of assistance should contact the  U.S. Embassy in Cameroon .

U.S. citizens should carry all proper paperwork at all times, including their passport.

Demonstrations occur spontaneously. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Mob violence targeting those implicated in crimes or road accidents can occur. Harassment of foreign nationals is common, as are demonstrations against international organizations and interests.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Armed Conflict : There are ongoing military operations throughout CAR; armed groups remain active in large parts of the country. Outside Bangui, criminals and various armed actors frequently perpetrate violence against civilians to include foreigners and humanitarian workers; road travelers and those operating outside Bangui are especially vulnerable. Armed robberies, physical and sexual assaults, ambushes, homicides, illicit taxation and extortion, arbitrary search and seizures, unlawful detentions, and kidnappings of civilians are common. Armed actors in northwestern CAR have increasingly used landmines and other explosive devices along roads and in areas near the Cameroonian border. Outbreaks of intercommunal violence and armed conflict can happen without warning anywhere in the country including Bangui.

Crime:   Crime in Bangui is common.  Beware of:

• Petty theft in large market areas;
• Armed gangs in Bangui and outlying residential areas;
• Violent demonstrations, looting, burning of buildings, and roadblocks during periods of civil unrest and conflict; and
• Checkpoints staffed by armed actors seeking bribes and impeding the work of peacekeeping forces.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the  U.S. Embassy in Cameroon for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 117 (local equivalent of “911”) or the Gendarmerie at 2161-2200 and contact the U.S. Embassy in Cameroon at +(237) 22220-1500 ext. 4341/4023. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. Victims of crime in Bangui may have to pay to send a vehicle to pick up police officers due to the shortage of police vehicles and fuel. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

The U.S. Embassy in Cameroon can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the  U.S. Embassy in Cameroon  for assistance.

Tourism:  No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place. Tourists are considered to be participating in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws and penalties. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy in Cameroon immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Identification:  Local law requires passports to be carried on your person at all times. Failure to produce your passport may result in detention and/or a fine.

Drugs:  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in CAR are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Photography:  Taking photographs of police or military installations, airports, or any other government buildings is prohibited.  Unauthorized photography will result in the seizure of photographic equipment and detention of the photographer, by CAR authorities. Police or other government authorities can provide information and grant permission for photographing a particular subject or location. Locals in CAR may be very sensitive to all photography; you should obtain permission first. Corruption:  Corruption remains a serious problem among CAR security forces, some members of which have harassed travelers for bribes. At night, the roads in the capital are often manned with impromptu checkpoints, at which police or soldiers ask motorists and travelers for money.   Banking:  Banking infrastructure remains limited in CAR, and facilities for monetary exchange exist only in the capital. There are few ATMs in CAR.  Exchange bureaus and banks normally accept dollars and euros, with the exception of West African Francs (CFA). Credit cards are not widely accepted in CAR, and purchases of goods and services, including hotel rooms and airline tickets, are cash transactions. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report   – see country reports
• Human Rights Report   – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  The penalty for "public expression of love" between persons of the same sex is imprisonment from six months to two years or a fine. When one of the participants is underage, the adult may be sentenced to two to five years imprisonment or a fine.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:   The law in Central African Republic does not prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:   Sexual assault and domestic violence are widespread in CAR. See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in the Central African Republic, dial 117 (local equivalent of “911”) or 2161-2200 (the Gendarmerie.)

Ambulance services are:

• Not present throughout the country.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

U.S. Embassy Bangui does not pay medical bills for U.S. citizens.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance and often medical facilities in CAR require payment before treatment.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most healthcare providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on the types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Medical facilities are extremely limited in CAR, and the quality of care is unreliable. Sanitation levels are low. Many medicines are not available. You should carry a sufficient supply of properly labeled prescription drugs and other medications with you for your entire visit.

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Meningococcal meningitis
• Diarrheal diseases
• Schistosomiasis
• Tuberculosis

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in the Central African Republic.

Vaccinations:  Be current on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

•   World Health Organization
•   U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions are extremely poor.  Watch out for:

• Large potholes and degraded roadways
• Unpaved roads throughout CAR
• Drivers ignoring traffic laws to drive on the smoothest section of roads
• Impromptu checkpoints by armed groups and or government organizations
• National Government Curfew is in effect from 2200-0500

U.S. Embassy Bangui advises against:

• Overland travel in the northern, eastern, and western regions due to the risk of armed attacks on motorists
• Driving after dark

Traffic Laws:  If you are involved in a traffic accident, you should wait until the police or the Gendarmerie arrive unless your health or safety is threatened. There are currently no distracted driving laws in effect in the Central African Republic, but police may pull over drivers who talk or text while driving for not following safe driving procedure.

Public Transportation:  The city of Bangui has a public transportation system consisting of green buses and yellow taxis, though these vehicles are often dangerously overcrowded and very badly maintained.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in CAR, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of CAR’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

 For additional IPCA-related information, please see  the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Visiting Central African Republic

After spending months travelling across West Africa we were ready to move on.

Visiting Central African Republic (CAR) wasn’t initially part of our planned travels on this leg of Africa

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

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While doing research we learned more about this country and decided to travel overland to see the wildlife in the Dzanga-Sangha lodge.

The Central African Republic is one of the least visited countries in the world and visiting Central African Republic really isn’t for everyone.

It has struggled to find its feet since its independence from France in 1960. Today it ranks as the poorest country in Africa.

The official language is Sangha, but French is widely spoken. The main currency is the Central African Franc.

Visiting Central African Republic – Is it safe?

You won’t find a guide book for the Central African Republic and there are very few blogs.

Most Western governments have issued explicit warnings advising against travel to the Central African Republic under any circumstances.

Violent crimes such as armed robbery, muggings, and homicide, are too common. CAR had some of the worst cases of poachers in recent years too.

As large parts of the country are controlled by armed warlord groups who regularly kidnap, injure, and kill civilians, any visitors are either discouraged to visit or are restricted to only a few areas.

Consular services are often either extremely limited or non-existent as most countries have now closed their embassies within CAR and in case of civil unrest would be unable to help.

So you need to do a lot of research and ideally connect with someone on the ground before visiting Central African Republic.

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What to see in the Central African Republic?

Tourism in the Central African Republic is pretty much non-existent due to the troubled history. Security in the country is particularly unstable in the north and northwest.

Most visitors are therefore limited their visit to either the capital city, Bangui or the Dzanga Sangha National park in the southwest of CAR.

Visiting Central African Republic is not cheap and the logistics to see more of the country do add.

With the only international airport in the country, Bangui makes the obvious entry point for many travellers. The lack of flights means your best option is the $200-$250 flight from neighbouring Cameroon.

Check Skyscanner for the latest prices and flights available.

We arrived in the late morning from Douala. Our complimentary arrival hotel transfer never showed up so we ended up negotiating a taxi and off we went through the dusty streets of the capital.

In some way, Bangui almost looks like some other capital cities in West and Central Africa we have been to.

However, we could tell things were a lot tougher here.

The heavy presence of UN vehicles combined with the hardship in people’s faces reminded us that this country ranks as one of the poorest in the world and their internal unrest was still ongoing.

The Ledger Hotel seems to be the place most foreigners stay as let’s face it, there are almost no tourists here. As for the diplomats, UN workers, and businessmen, this is the type of hotel that they book.

This is mostly due to the higher level of security and I guess the level of comfort too.

These are your options for hotels in Bangui on Booking.com .

After check-in, we decided to use some of the facilities and spent a few hours at the pool. This was busy with UN troops and a few diplomats with pop music and a pool bar.

It was nice to finally relax after some challenging travels in West and Central Africa. We found out that this was a popular place to spend the weekends.

We certainly felt like we were on another planet and not in CAR.

The downtown of Bangui wasn’t too far from the hotel, but we decided to jump in a taxi and check it out.

Most people warned us about photography and muggings so we were quite happy to just have a look and take it in.

We found that there is very little to see in this city apart from a few old landmarks.

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Dzanga-Sangha National Park

Dzanga-Sangha National Park is without any doubt is the star of the Central African Republic.

Our plan to visit overland from Cameroon backfired due to our Cameroon visas being issued incorrectly. They were issued as a single entry instead of a double entry that we’d requested.

So once we would enter CAR we would have to continue onwards to the Republic of Congo.

This would place us further away from Chad , where we were planning to go next, and as our friend who has just done it advised – we needed plenty of free passport pages for many police checkpoints as they stamp them.

We were running desperately low on pages already so this really wasn’t an option.

So Dzanga Sangha was out of the question unless we were planning to pay for a chartered flight. Not likely.

There is a local Lodge ( Sangha Lodge ) that offers both accommodations as well as activities in Dzanga Sangha, such as Lowland Gorilla Trekking, boating safaris, and visits to the famous Dzanga Bai.

So if you are looking at visiting Central African Republic, we suggest you look at what they do. 

We’ve decided to put it on our bucket list to return to.

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Travel Tips for Africa

We’ve got some comprehensive blogs about travelling in Africa – what a massive continent this is! Have you ever wondered,  how many countries in Africa are there? 54 or 55?  We cover them in depth in our  Ultimate Africa Bucket List.

It’s worth reading these  17 ESSENTIAL Things to know before travelling to West Africa  and be sure to take a look at our delicious  Food Map of Africa!

Check out our  AFRICA Page  for detailed blogs about individual countries.

If you’re simply looking for a place to find our best advice, tips, and suggestions on travel gear and products we use and love, then our  Travel Resources Page  is for you.

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👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

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🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

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10 Comments . Leave new

Sad you missed Dzanga Sangha. I entered CAR overland from Republic of the Congo (Ouesso to Bangui) and left via Dzangha Sangha into Cameroon in 2018. You can still do it now in 2020. We traveled overland using local transport. It was the highlight of all of my traveling. Make the people stamp over stamps in the future. A little bribe can help with that if they are resistant. CAR is a country without laws so negotiating makes everything possible. I hope someday you can experience Dzanga Sangha and nearby Lobeke. Truly amazing learning about Bayaka culture and seeing the wild animals in the rainforest.

Yes, we would’ve loved to see Dzanga Sangha and it was our plan. But as the Consulate of Cameroon made a mistake and didn’t issue a multi-entry visa for us, only single entry. This meant we couldn’t travel overland in and out. Hopefully we get to return one day.

I found this blog. Please tell me, these states are very dangerous, yes? I have information that the infrastructure is not working, the government forces are not working, so they can shoot you somewhere. An example is the Democratic Republic of Congo. How could you visit these countries? Was it just with a delegation, in a fancy hotel and security? I’ve travelled a bit, I take the local bus, I sleep in bivouacs or the cheapest hostels.

Well, we’re on a journey to visit every country in the world, so yes, we have to visit the dangerous and unstable countries too. We do a lot of research before we visit these countries to ensure our safety while we’re there. We visited Central African Republic independently and stayed in a an expensive hotel with high security. We usually stay in budget accommodation and travel like a local, take buses etc – but for some countries, it isn’t safe to do so. You may learn a little more about our travels through this region of Africa by reading this post – https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/travelling-in-central-africa/

Rachel, I see now, Slovakia republic, this is have friend (Marty)? Passport Slovakia. I`m Czech republic. Muzu ze tak spojit a pokecat o cestovani i v jazyku Ceskem haha.

Yes, Marty is Slovakian and we’re on this adventure together. Connect with us on Instagram or FB & you can communicate in Czech with Marty on there 🙂

How long did it take to issue a CAR visa in Yaoundé?

Hi Marco, Our visa was issued in 1 or 2 days in Yaounde, we can’t remember exactly.

Hello and thanks for the information. I was supposed to travel to Cameroon/CAR/RofCongo, and Gabon back in 2019, but broke my leg just prior to the trip and had to cancel. I’m starting to arrange the same trip again for the summer of 2023, but I’m a little weary regarding having to show time sensitive Covid PCR tests every time I cross a border in that region.

How was it for you this past summer? Did they ask for 48-72 PCR tests? If they did, did it happen only at airports or at land border crossings as well? Were any of the borders closed when you arrived due to Covid restrictions?

I have all my vaccines, so them proof of that isn’t an issue, if that is all they ask for. But I have had experience, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, that even with everything in order (ie Yellow Fever Virus vax) they still pointed to something on the card that was non-existent and wanted a bribe to let me into the country.

Anyway, any information regarding my queries above would be very helpful.

Hi Tom, sorry to hear you had to cancel your journey in Gabon. Since your trip is planned for summer 2023, anything currently in place regarding PCR tests will most likely change by then. If not, it is simple to take the test and provide the PCR test results as per entry requirements. Yes, you will need a Yellow Fever Certificate and proof of vaccination for COVID-19. And yes sometimes they ask for random vaccinations at borders. Just stay calm and polite and they will eventually just let you go when it’s not needed. We haven’t paid any bribes in Africa as we believe it contributes to corruption.

Not sure which borders you are planning to cross as you mentioned Cameroon CAR Republic of Congo and Gabon. If you were planning to do them in this order then there are some very long journeys to do so, but you probably know that. Also, you haven’t mentioned which summer of 2023 you mean as I am not sure if you live in the Northern or Southern hemisphere. However, the main rainy season lasts from May to November so the overland journey would be more enjoyable and doable from November to April time.

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Central African Republic

Central African Republic (CAR) is a country with staggering rare natural beauty and some wonderful wildlife. Not so long ago it was one of the best places in Africa for encounters with huge forest elephants and western lowland gorillas, and the best place in the world, some say, to see butterflies. However, since 2012 political problems and religious-fuelled civil war have made the country completely off limits to travellers for safety reasons, with all Western governments warning against any visits here.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Dzanga-Sangha National Park

This national park, wedged into the triangle of southwestern CAR Cameroon from Congo, is probably the one corner of the country still attracting visitors…

M'Baïki

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Wildlife & Nature

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I’d always been under the impression that when stalking animals, silence, caution and patience were virtues. So I was confounded to see my hunting party…

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in the Central African Republic. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio April 26, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles April 26, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the Central African Republic.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to the Central African Republic.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to the Central African Republic take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for the Central African Republic.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of the Central African Republic  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In the Central African Republic poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to the Central African Republic are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to the Central African Republic who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in the Central African Republic. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in the Central African Republic, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to the Central African Republic. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old .

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African sleeping sickness (african trypanosomiasis).

• Tsetse fly bite 
• Avoid Bug Bites

African Trypanosomiasis

African Tick-Bite Fever

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Avoid animals

• Scratched or bitten by an infected animal such as a rodent or primate
• Touching an infected animal or touching animal products, including skins and meat
• Being near an infected person who is coughing or sneezing
• Touching the body fluids or rash of a person with monkeypox
• Avoid animals and animal products
• Avoid people who are sick

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Central African Republic, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Central African Republic. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the Central African Republic include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in the Central African Republic. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the Central African Republic’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in the Central African Republic. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the Central African Republic may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the Central African Republic, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Central African Republic for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Central African Republic travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 17, 2024 11:55 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, central african republic - avoid all travel.

Avoid all travel to the Central African Republic due to unstable security conditions and violent crime.

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The security situation remains volatile and unpredictable.

Central African armed groups are present throughout the country. Local authorities have imposed a nationwide curfew, with the exception of Bangui, in effect from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. to stabilize the situation.

Political and security conditions remain unstable throughout the Central African Republic. Military operations are ongoing throughout the country. Armed and criminal groups continue to operate in large areas of the country, and they regularly commit acts of violence. They have previously targeted humanitarian workers, road travellers and foreigners mainly outside of the capital. 

Security forces cannot guarantee the safety of civilians, particularly outside of Bangui.

If you are in the Central African Republic despite this advisory, take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Security conditions can deteriorate suddenly. The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular assistance in the Central African Republic is extremely limited.

Prefecture of Haut-Mbomou

Elements of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) continue to carry out attacks and abductions in the Haut-Mbomou prefecture, in southeastern Central African Republic. The security situation is volatile. The local population continues to flee LRA attacks.

The security situation is generally more stable in Bangui but could deteriorate rapidly. Crime rates remain high in certain areas of Bangui, especially in the PK5 district.

• Avoid any travel after dark
• Avoid any travel to PK5 district

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid moving about Bangui during times of civil unrest.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Rebel activity, armed attacks and banditry are common. Some attacks are random. Shootings and looting occur frequently.

Westerners and employees of international organizations have been the target of attacks and abductions. The risk of abduction for both nationals and foreigners has increased.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs regularly.

• Exercise caution at all times
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Don’t show signs of affluence
• Carry only certified copies of your travel documents

Women’s safety

Incidents of sexual assault and domestic violence are common. Women travellers may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse.

• Exercise extreme caution
• Never travel alone at night

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Road conditions.

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. The only paved roads are those from Bangui to Bossembélé, from Bangui to Sibut and from Bangui to Mbaïki. Driving conditions may be more hazardous during the rainy season, when dirt roads may be closed for hours or even days. Buses, trucks and minibuses are the main means of transportation.

Travel outside of Bangui

Avoid any road travel outside Bangui. If you decide to undertake road travel outside Bangui despite this warning, always travel in a four-wheel-drive vehicle, with convoy of at least 2 vehicles and during daylight hours. Regional wars have increased access to weapons, leading to armed attacks and highway robbery.

Road blocks

The police and army sometimes set up road blocks.

Fuel shortages

Fuel shortages occur regularly.

Local authorities may impose rationing measures for fuel. These measures may led to the reduction of essential services and line-ups at gas stations.

• Plan accordingly
• Keep a supply of fuel on hand

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Central African authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Central African Republic.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 17 April, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of yellow fever vaccination for travellers from all countries.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of their trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. 

Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.

Malaria is a risk to travellers to this destination.   Antimalarial medication is recommended for most travellers to this destination and should be taken as recommended. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

 If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)  is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a tsetse fly. Tsetse flies usually bite during the day and the bites are usually painful. If untreated, the disease is eventually fatal. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from bites especially in game parks and rural areas. Avoid wearing bright or dark-coloured clothing as these colours attract tsetse flies. There is no vaccine available for this disease.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Onchocerciasis (river blindness)   is an eye and skin disease caused by a parasite spread through the bite of an infected female blackfly.  Onchocerciasis often leads to blindness if left untreated. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from blackfly bites, which are most common close to fast-flowing rivers and streams. There is no vaccine available for onchocerciasis although drug treatments exist.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Mpox (monkeypox)   is a risk in this country. It is a viral disease that can cause serious illness in some circumstances. Risk is generally low for most travellers.

Mpox spreads in 3 ways:

• from animals to humans through direct contact or by eating or preparing undercooked meat of infected animals or coming into contact with an infected animal's body fluids
• from person to person through close contact, including direct contact with the skin lesions, blood, body fluids, or mucosal surfaces (such as eyes, mouth, throat, genitalia, anus, or rectum) of an infected person
• through direct contact with contaminated objects such as bedding and towels, or by sharing personal objects used by an infected person

Follow recommended public health measures   and avoid contact with animals such as rodents and primates to help prevent getting or spreading the infection.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

There are some hospitals in Bangui, but very few elsewhere in the country. Medications are scarce and sanitary conditions are poor. Medical expenses must generally be paid for on the spot and prior to receiving treatment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Trading of precious stones

You’ll need a government licence to buy or sell precious stones. There are stiff fines for smuggling.

Photography

It’s illegal to photograph:

• government buildings
• military and police facilities
• the presidential palace
• power plants. 

Power plants may not be clearly marked. Unauthorized photography may result in immediate seizure of your equipment by authorities. Never photograph people without their permission.

Identification

Always carry your identity documents (or notarized copies) with you. Failing to do so could result in your arrest and imprisonment.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Central African Republic.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Central African Republic, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the Central African Republic.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Central African Republic by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Central African Republic to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Central African law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could face arrest under other charges, such as public indecency.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the Central African Republic.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an International Driving Permit.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe, and can include jail time.

International Driving Permit

The currency in the Central African Republic is the African Financial Community franc (XAF). Only Bangui’s major hotels accept international credit cards and the Carte Bleue debit card.

The exchange rate for cash is much lower than for traveller’s cheques. Banks charge a commission on traveller’s cheques. You can only exchange currency in Bangui and Berbérati.

Dry season 

The dry season extends from December to April. Between February and May, the temperature can reach 40°C in the north. The humidity can be oppressive.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from May to October. As you head north in the country, the length of the rainy season gradually diminishes to four months, from June to September. Flash floods are common during this season. Some roads may become impassible and floods may cause extensive material damage. If you are in Central African Republic during the rainy season:

• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: +236 2161 3072
• medical assistance: 114
• firefighters: 118

Consular assistance

Chad, Central African Republic, Gabon

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Yaoundé, Cameroon and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Central African Republic

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in the Central African Republic set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Central African Republic Embassy in Paris (in French).    

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the Central African Republic.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the Central African Republic, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit the Central African Republic.

Applying for a visa

Apply for a visa through the Central African Republic Embassy in Paris (in French).

Vaccine requirements

To pass border control in the Central African Republic, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.

For more details about health entry requirements and recommended vaccinations for the Central African Republic, see TravelHealthPro’s Central African Republic guide . 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the Central African Republic . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

There is an export tax on cultural artefacts.

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Central African Republic

Latest update.

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to the Central African Republic due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of terrorism, kidnapping and violent crime.

Central African Republic (PDF 304.37 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Medical emergencies.

Call 117 or 610 600.

Call 117 or 2161 2200.

Advice levels

Do not travel  to the Central African Republic.

Do not travel  to the Central African Republic due to the dangerous security situation and the threat of terrorism, kidnapping and violent crime.

• There are ongoing military operations throughout the CAR. If it's safe to do so, leave the CAR. Tensions are high. Armed groups operate across the country. They've killed foreigners, including aid workers and peacekeepers.
• The security situation outside Bangui is extremely volatile. A nationwide curfew is in place from 10pm to 5am, except for Bangui. Avoid travelling at night in Bangui due to security risks.  
• If despite our advice you plan to travel to the CAR, take personal safety measures. Law enforcement and peacekeepers can't ensure your safety.
• The Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) regularly attacks civilians in the southeast of the CAR, especially Haut-Mbomou province. Be alert to possible threats.
• Kidnapping and violent crime occur. Kidnappers can target foreigners. Seek professional security advice.
• Bandit groups are common. They target aid groups to get money, vehicles and equipment. Be very careful when carrying large amounts of money. If possible, split it between your travelling companions. Carry photocopies of key documents and leave originals in hotel safes or other secure locations.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Medical facilities in the CAR are limited. Many medications are unavailable. If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Check your travel insurance covers this.
• Yellow fever is widespread. It can be fatal. Get vaccinated before you travel.
• Insect-borne diseases, including malaria, filariasis and African sleeping sickness, are common. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.
• Infectious diseases are widespread. These include hepatitis, typhoid, cholera and monkeypox. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Avoid ice and raw or undercooked food.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Always carry proof of identity. This can be a notarised copy. Police might detain or fine you if you can't show them your documents. 
• You need a government permit to take photos. Unauthorised photography is illegal. Don't photograph military zones, assets or personnel, government buildings or mining leases.
• You need a licence to buy or sell gems. There are heavy penalties for illegally exporting precious gems.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• If, despite our advice, you plan to travel to the CAR, contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Central African Republic (CAR) for details of visa and entry requirements. The Consulate-General of France in Sydney may be able to help you get your visas for the CAR. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.
• You're required to present your yellow fever and COVID-19 vaccination certificate to enter the CAR.
• Bangui is the only city where you can change money. You can usually convert euros or US dollars into local currency. Stay alert when changing money.
• Travel throughout the CAR is dangerous. Military personnel and civilians have been killed while travelling in convoys. Take security precautions when travelling.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.
• Our ability to provide consular services in the CAR is extremely limited.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in the CAR. For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Ethiopia .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Tensions are high throughout the country. The security situation can worsen suddenly and without warning.

For your safety, be aware that:

• armed groups are active across the country
• many areas outside the capital are in a state of lawlessness
• armed groups and criminals set up illegal roadblocks without notice
• armed groups have killed foreigners, including aid workers and peacekeepers
• border areas are very dangerous

The security situation is unstable. This is despite the presence of a United Nations stabilisation mission. Inter-communal violence is frequent and widespread, particularly in rural areas. Thousands of people have been killed.

Law enforcement is unable to ensure your security.

A nationwide curfew is in place from 10pm to 5am, except for Bangui. Avoid travelling at night in Bangui and to the PK5 district at any time due to security risks. Local authorities may impose curfews and restrictions without warning.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Protests have previously resulted in deaths and injuries. You should leave the area immediately if you're near any protests, marches or demonstrations. Stay alert and follow the local news, as the situation can change quickly and without warning. Stay away from any blockades set up by the police and security forces.  

If it's safe to do so, leave the CAR. If you stay in the CAR, take personal safety measures.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

The Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) operates in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan and Uganda. It regularly attacks south-eastern parts of the CAR, especially Haut-Mbomou province.

LRA attacks target civilians. The LRA has killed many people and thousands more have fled the region.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

Kidnapping and violent crime occur in the CAR. Criminals have targeted foreigners, including aid workers. The risk of kidnapping for both nationals and foreigners has increased.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited. 

To reduce the risk of kidnapping: 

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings 
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk 
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures 
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone 
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location 
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs 
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours 
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information: 

Bandit groups and crime are common throughout the CAR.

Serious, indiscriminate violence and looting occurs in the CAR. It has been widespread in parts of Bangui and regional areas. Incidents of sexual assault and domestic violence are common.

Local police and security forces sometimes set up random roadblocks.

At times people posing as officials set up roadblocks. Armed groups may attempt to extort money from travellers through fake fines or intimidation.

Criminals target aid groups to get money, communication equipment and vehicles.

If you're carrying large amounts of money, be very careful. If possible, share the holding of it with your travelling companions.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather.

The CAR experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes
• volcanic activity

In the event of an earthquake, volcanic activity or other natural disaster, follow the advice of local authorities.

Find information on natural disasters from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

The rainy season is from May to October. The dry season is from December to April.

You can't drive on some roads during the rainy season. Roads close due to  flooding , including the three main routes entering Bangui.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

You'll need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to the CAR.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars upfront for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)
• Medications

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in the CAR. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. 

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities throughout the CAR are limited.

Medicines are in short supply and hygiene standards are poor. You're likely to have to pay up front for treatment.

If you get seriously ill or injured, you could need treatment at a more suitable place. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Yellow fever  (Department of Health and Aged Care) is widespread in the CAR. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel and carry your vaccination card. Some countries require you to present your yellow fever vaccination card if you have travelled to the CAR.

Mpox  (also known as Monkeypox) is endemic in parts of Africa. In areas where Mpox is found, you should avoid contact with animals, especially primates and rodents.

Other common insect-borne diseases include:

• Filariasis  
• African sleeping sickness  

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get vaccinated against yellow fever before you travel.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are widespread. These include:

• Tuberculosis  
• Meningitis  

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food
• avoid fresh fruit and fresh fruit juice.
• don't swim in fresh water
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Proof of identity

Always carry proof of identity. This can be a notarised copy. Police checks are common. Police might detain or fine you if you can't show them identity documents. 

Photography

Unauthorised photography is illegal. Don't take photos of:

• military zones
• military assets
• military or police personnel
• government buildings
• mining leases

If you do, police may confiscate your camera, fine you and detain you.

You need a government permit to take photos. The government will not grant permits for strategic sites such as:

• the airport
• military buildings
• the Presidential Palace

It's not permitted to take photographs the authorities think damage the country’s image (for example, of street children and people with disabilities).

Gem licences

A licence is necessary to buy or sell gems. There are heavy penalties for illegally exporting precious gems. It's only legal to purchase diamonds or precious stones through government-authorised agents.

While homosexuality is not illegal, same-sex relationships are not widely accepted in Central African society. LGBTQIA+ travellers may face arrest for public displays of affection.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

If you decide to travel to the CAR despite our advice, contact the nearest  Embassy or Consulate of the Central African Republic  for details of visa and entry requirements. The  Consulate-General of France in Sydney  may be able to help you get your visas for the CAR. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.

Border measures

Land border crossings may not be open to tourists. Border crossings may close at short notice.

You're required to present your yellow fever and COVID-19 vaccination certificate to enter the CAR.

Other formalities

Yellow fever.

You’re required to carry a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter the CAR.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to  yellow fever  (Department of Health and Aged Care).

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. It can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Make sure your passport has at least two blank pages.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible.

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

Very few ATMs are available in Bangui.

Bangui has several Western Union offices, but only a few banks. Most hotels, supermarkets and restaurants catering to foreigners only accept cash.

The currency is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Cameroon, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea also use the XAF.

Bangui is the only city where you can change money. You can usually convert euros or US dollars into local currency. Keep alert when changing money through official or unofficial change agents.

Local travel

Travel throughout the CAR is dangerous. You might encounter: 

• armed groups
• illegal road blocks

Civilians and military travelling in convoys have been attacked and killed.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to  yellow fever  (Department of Health and Aged Care). 

Road travel

Roads in the CAR are in a very poor condition. Driving at night is dangerous due to poor lighting. Most roads require a 4WD vehicle. Fuel shortages are common.

The rainy season is May to October. Sometimes flooding occurs and roads become impassable.

Authorities may close borders without warning. This is due to the presence of armed groups and risk of cross border incursions. 

• Driving or riding

Few commercial airlines fly to Bangui.

Be aware of your personal belongings even within the airport terminal.

Check the  CAR's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Emergency numbers are unreliable in the Central African Republic. The emergency services are unlikely to respond outside of Bangui. Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in the CAR. You can contact the Australian Embassy in Ethiopia. Our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians in the CAR is severely limited. 

Australian Embassy, Addis Ababa

Turkish compound (off Cape Verde Street)  Bole Sub City, Woreda 3, PO Box 3715 Ethiopia

Phone: +251 11 6672651 / 6672652 / 6672693 / 6672694  Email:  [email protected] Website:  ethiopia.embassy.gov.au Facebook: @AusEmb.ET X: @AusEmbET

See the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 from within Australia

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