Mangroves National Park is situated in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park was established in 1992, covering an area of 768 square kilometers, making it the smallest national park in Congo.
The park is recognized as a wetland system and is also a Ramsar wetland site. It is the only marine national park in the country with mangrove forests that are distinct from the ones found in South Asia.
The park derives its name from the mangrove trees.
The park is characterized by wetlands, lush forests, mangroves, oak trees, walnut trees, red cedar, African oak, coconut trees, grasslands, and much more, giving the park spectacular views. Below are some of the activities tourists can engage in while in the park.
Activities
Boat cruises at Mangroves National Park can be taken on the Congo River basin, where you will be able to spot hippos, crocodiles, manatees, and various water birds. The views of flora and fauna are extraordinary.
Fishing is also one of the tourist activities tourists can enjoy when visiting Mangroves National Park. The Congo River basin is home to various fish species you can encounter; however, tourists must come with their own fishing gear to engage in this activity.
Mangroves National Park is not only home to mangroves but various wildlife such as southern reedbucks, bushbucks, crocodiles, snakes, hippos, manatee, bush pigs, monkeys, and much more.
Mangroves National Park also harbors various species of birds. Some of the examples are kingfishers, Ayres hawk eagle, African fishing eagle, goliath heron, red-billed tropic bird, long-tailed cormorant, and many others.
Best time to visit
Mangroves National Park can be visited all year round, and the wet and dry seasons provide different experiences. If you would love to swim and sunbathe in the ocean, then the best time to visit is in the drier months of June to August. You will be advised to carry strong mosquito repellents if you’re visiting in the wet season because there are a lot of mosquitoes in the area.
There is no accommodation yet at Mangroves National Park. Tourists can carry their own camping gear or sleep in hotels in Muada town. The town’s hotels range from budget, mid-range, and luxurious.
Mangroves National Park can be accessed by road or air transport to Muada town. Then, tourists can drive from Muada town to the park.
