Dzanga-Sangha is a protected area of dense tropical rainforest in the far southwest of the Central African Republic, on the border with Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. It is one of the best places in Central Africa to see western lowland gorillas — habituated groups can be tracked with local Ba'Aka pygmy guides, who have an extraordinary knowledge of the forest.
The reserve also harbours forest elephants, which gather in large numbers at the Dzanga Bai, a mineral-rich forest clearing where dozens of elephants can sometimes be seen from an observation platform. Bongo antelope, forest buffalo, and chimpanzees are also present.
Getting here is an expedition in itself. The nearest town of any size is Bayanga, reachable by a long, rough drive from Bangui or by charter flight. Accommodation is basic and logistics require planning, but for wildlife enthusiasts willing to make the effort, Dzanga-Sangha is extraordinary.