Boali is a small town about 100 kilometres northwest of Bangui, known almost entirely for the Chutes de Boali — a broad, powerful waterfall on the Mbali River that drops roughly 50 metres over a wide basalt ledge. It is one of the few developed tourist sites in the Central African Republic and, in calmer times, the most popular day trip from the capital.
The falls are impressive in the wet season (June to October) when the river runs high and the spray can be felt from the viewing area. A small hydroelectric plant sits beside the falls, built during the colonial era and still partially operational. The surrounding area is lush equatorial forest, and the road from Bangui passes through villages and oil palm plantations.
Visiting Boali requires caution. The security situation in the Central African Republic is volatile and has been for years. The road from Bangui is generally considered one of the safer routes in the country, but conditions change quickly. Check current advice before travelling, go with a local guide, and plan to return to Bangui the same day.