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Central African Republic Safety Guide

Central African Republic Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Home › Safety Guide
Extreme Caution Required
The Central African Republic (CAR) presents significant security and health challenges for travelers. The country has experienced prolonged political instability, armed conflict, and humanitarian crises, with armed groups controlling large portions of the territory outside the capital. Most Western governments advise against all travel to CAR, with only essential travel to Bangui under exceptional circumstances and with robust security arrangements. The security situation remains volatile throughout the country, with armed groups active in rural areas and periodic violence even in the capital. Infrastructure is severely limited, with poor road conditions, minimal public services, and extremely limited medical facilities. Travel outside Bangui is particularly dangerous due to armed banditry, intercommunal violence, and the presence of multiple armed factions. For those who must travel to CAR for essential purposes (humanitarian work, diplomatic missions, essential business), extensive security preparations are mandatory. This includes professional security briefings, armed escorts for movement, secure accommodation, comprehensive medical evacuation insurance, and constant monitoring of the security situation. Independent tourism is not advisable in the current environment.

The Central African Republic faces severe security challenges with ongoing armed conflict and minimal infrastructure; only essential travel with professional security arrangements should be considered.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police
117
Police capacity is extremely limited; response times are unreliable and coverage outside Bangui is minimal. Contact your embassy immediately in emergencies.
Gendarmerie
118
Military police force with slightly better capacity than civilian police, but still limited resources and response capability.
Fire Service
118
Fire services are extremely limited with minimal equipment and coverage primarily in Bangui only.
MINUSCA (UN Peacekeeping)
+236 70 50 00 00
UN peacekeeping mission may be contacted in severe security emergencies; they have bases in Bangui and some regional areas.
Medical Emergency
No centralized ambulance service
No reliable ambulance service exists; medical evacuation arrangements must be made privately or through your organization/embassy.

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Central African Republic.

Healthcare System

The healthcare system in CAR is among the most underdeveloped in the world, severely impacted by years of conflict and instability. Medical facilities are extremely limited, even in Bangui, with most hospitals lacking basic supplies, equipment, and qualified staff. Outside the capital, medical care is virtually non-existent.

Hospitals

The main facilities in Bangui include Hôpital de l'Amitié (Chinese-built hospital with slightly better resources) and Hôpital Communautaire. However, even these facilities are severely under-resourced. International NGOs like Médecins Sans Frontières operate clinics that may provide better care. Private clinics exist but are still extremely limited.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies in Bangui have very limited stock, often lacking basic medications. Counterfeit and expired medications are common. Bring all necessary medications from home in original packaging with prescriptions. The pharmaceutical supply chain is unreliable.

Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance with guaranteed medical evacuation coverage is absolutely essential and non-negotiable. Ensure coverage includes evacuation to Nairobi, Paris, or another city with quality medical facilities, as local treatment is inadequate for serious conditions.

Healthcare Tips

  • Arrange medical evacuation insurance before travel with a reputable provider experienced in high-risk destinations
  • Bring a comprehensive medical kit including prescription medications, antibiotics, antimalarials, water purification tablets, and first aid supplies
  • Identify the nearest medical facility and evacuation route upon arrival
  • Register with your embassy immediately upon arrival so they can assist in medical emergencies
  • Consider traveling with a medical professional if part of an organizational mission
  • Maintain up-to-date vaccination records and bring copies
  • Have blood type documentation and any critical medical information easily accessible

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Armed Conflict and Violence
High Risk

Armed groups control significant portions of the country, with frequent clashes between factions, attacks on civilians, and banditry. Violence can erupt suddenly and unpredictably, including in Bangui.

Employ professional security services, maintain constant situational awareness, avoid all travel outside Bangui, stay in secure compounds, monitor security reports daily, and have evacuation plans ready.
Violent Crime and Banditry
High Risk

Armed robbery, carjacking, home invasions, and violent assault are common. Criminals are often armed and willing to use violence. Kidnapping for ransom targets foreigners, aid workers, and business people.

Never travel alone, use armored vehicles with trained drivers, vary routes and schedules, maintain low profile, use secure accommodations with armed guards, avoid displaying wealth, and travel in convoys when possible.
Petty Crime and Theft
High Risk

Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and opportunistic theft are common in Bangui, particularly in markets, crowds, and near hotels frequented by foreigners.

Keep valuables hidden and secured, use hotel safes, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, be extremely vigilant in public spaces, and avoid walking even in daylight in many areas.
Checkpoints and Harassment
High Risk

Numerous official and unofficial checkpoints exist throughout the country, operated by various armed groups, military, and police. Harassment, extortion, and detention at checkpoints are common.

Carry proper identification and documentation at all times, have copies of all important documents, remain calm and respectful, never resist or argue, have small bills available for potential 'fees,' and travel with security escorts who know checkpoint locations.
Road Safety
High Risk

Roads are in extremely poor condition with potholes, lack of signage, and minimal lighting. Many roads become impassable during rainy season. Traffic accidents are common, and medical response is non-existent.

Only travel in well-maintained 4x4 vehicles, avoid travel after dark completely, use experienced local drivers familiar with conditions, travel in convoys, carry spare parts and fuel, and have satellite communication devices.
Malaria and Tropical Diseases
High Risk

Malaria is endemic throughout CAR year-round, with high transmission rates. Other diseases include dengue fever, yellow fever, typhoid, cholera, meningitis, and sleeping sickness. HIV/AIDS prevalence is high.

Take antimalarial prophylaxis religiously, use mosquito nets and repellent, wear long sleeves and pants at dawn/dusk, ensure all vaccinations are current, drink only bottled or purified water, avoid raw foods, and practice strict food hygiene.
Landmines and Unexploded Ordnance
Medium Risk

Years of conflict have left landmines and unexploded ordnance in various areas, particularly in former conflict zones and along roads in rural areas.

Never leave marked roads or paths, avoid abandoned buildings, do not touch suspicious objects, stick to areas confirmed safe by security professionals, and seek local knowledge about safe areas.
Civil Unrest and Protests
Medium to High Risk

Political demonstrations, strikes, and civil unrest can occur with little warning and may turn violent quickly. Security forces may use excessive force to disperse crowds.

Monitor local news and security updates constantly, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, stay indoors during periods of unrest, stock emergency supplies, and follow embassy guidance.

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Checkpoint Extortion

Officials at checkpoints demand payment for fabricated violations or 'processing fees.' This can range from police and military to armed group members manning illegal checkpoints.

Travel with security escorts familiar with checkpoint protocols, carry proper documentation, remain calm and polite, have small denomination bills available, and report incidents to your embassy.
Fake Officials and Impersonation

Criminals pose as police, military, or government officials to extort money, gain access to compounds, or rob victims. They may have uniforms and fake credentials.

Verify credentials through your security team or embassy, never allow unknown 'officials' into your accommodation, request to contact their superior officer, and be suspicious of anyone demanding immediate payment.
Accommodation and Service Overcharging

Hotels and service providers significantly overcharge foreigners, particularly for basic services. Prices may be inflated 5-10 times normal rates with little recourse.

Arrange accommodation through reputable organizations or your embassy beforehand, confirm prices in writing before accepting services, use established hotels with known rates, and seek advice from trusted local contacts.
Currency Exchange Fraud

Unofficial money changers offer better rates but provide counterfeit bills, short-change customers, or work with accomplices to rob victims after transactions.

Only exchange money at banks or established exchange bureaus, bring sufficient hard currency (Euros or US Dollars) from home, count money carefully before leaving the counter, and avoid street money changers completely.
Business and Investment Scams

Fraudulent business opportunities, particularly in mining and natural resources, target foreign investors with promises of high returns. These often involve fake permits, non-existent resources, or partnership fraud.

Conduct extensive due diligence through independent legal counsel, verify all permits and licenses with government authorities, never pay large sums upfront, and be extremely skeptical of 'too good to be true' opportunities.

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General Security

  • Register with your embassy immediately upon arrival and maintain regular contact
  • Employ professional security services with armed escorts for all movement
  • Stay in secure, fortified accommodations with 24-hour armed security
  • Maintain multiple communication methods including satellite phone
  • Keep a low profile and avoid discussing travel plans or activities publicly
  • Vary your routes and schedules to avoid predictability
  • Have evacuation plans prepared and rehearsed with multiple exit routes
  • Maintain situational awareness at all times and trust your instincts
  • Keep emergency supplies including food, water, and fuel for at least 72 hours
  • Never travel alone under any circumstances

Document Security

  • Carry certified copies of passport and keep originals in secure location
  • Have multiple copies of all important documents stored in different locations
  • Keep digital copies of documents accessible offline and in secure cloud storage
  • Carry passport-style photos for potential documentation needs
  • Maintain vaccination records and medical information in accessible format
  • Have embassy contact information memorized and written in multiple places
  • Keep proof of travel insurance and evacuation coverage readily available

Communication

  • Invest in satellite phone or communication device as cellular coverage is unreliable
  • Establish regular check-in protocols with your organization or family
  • Learn basic French phrases as it is the official language
  • Download offline maps and security information before arrival
  • Have emergency contact numbers programmed and written down
  • Understand that internet is extremely limited and unreliable
  • Use secure communication methods for sensitive information

Health Precautions

  • Begin antimalarial medication before arrival and continue as prescribed
  • Drink only bottled, boiled, or purified water
  • Avoid ice, raw foods, and unpeeled fruits and vegetables
  • Eat only thoroughly cooked hot foods from reliable sources
  • Practice rigorous hand hygiene with soap or hand sanitizer
  • Avoid contact with animals including dogs, monkeys, and bats (rabies risk)
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET and sleep under treated mosquito nets
  • Avoid swimming in freshwater due to schistosomiasis and other parasites
  • Seek immediate medical evacuation for any serious illness or injury

Money and Valuables

  • Bring sufficient hard currency (Euros preferred) as ATMs are unreliable and often non-functional
  • Keep cash in multiple secure locations on your person and in accommodation
  • Use hotel safes for valuables but understand security is not guaranteed
  • Avoid displaying wealth including jewelry, expensive watches, or electronics
  • Keep only small amounts of cash accessible for checkpoint 'fees'
  • Notify your bank of travel plans but understand card usage is extremely limited
  • Have emergency funds accessible through multiple means

Transportation

  • Never use public transportation or shared taxis
  • Only travel in well-maintained 4x4 vehicles with security features
  • Avoid all travel after dark without exception
  • Travel in convoys with multiple vehicles when possible
  • Ensure vehicles have adequate fuel, spare parts, and communication equipment
  • Use drivers with local knowledge and security training
  • Plan routes carefully and have contingency routes prepared
  • Avoid the airport road at night and be vigilant even during daytime travel

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Women travelers face significant additional risks in CAR beyond the already severe general security situation. Sexual violence is widespread and has been used as a weapon of war. Gender-based violence is common, and women face harassment and discrimination. Women should not travel to CAR without robust security arrangements and preferably as part of an organizational mission with established security protocols.

  • Never travel alone under any circumstances; always have security escorts
  • Stay in secure accommodations with trusted security personnel
  • Avoid all non-essential interaction with strangers
  • Travel as part of established organizational missions with security protocols
  • Maintain conservative dress and behavior to minimize unwanted attention
  • Have emergency contacts including embassy and security team immediately accessible
  • Be aware that sexual violence is used as a weapon in conflict areas
  • Understand that reporting sexual assault may be difficult with limited police capacity
  • Consider traveling with female colleagues when possible for mutual support
  • Have access to emergency contraception and post-exposure prophylaxis if needed
  • Maintain communication protocols with trusted contacts
  • Avoid areas known for high rates of gender-based violence

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Homosexuality is not explicitly criminalized in CAR, but there are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex relationships are not recognized, and there is no anti-discrimination legislation.

  • Exercise extreme discretion regarding sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Avoid any public displays of affection with same-sex partners
  • Do not discuss LGBTQ+ topics openly or publicly
  • Understand that LGBTQ+ rights are not recognized or protected
  • Be aware that discrimination and harassment are likely if orientation is known
  • Have secure communication with LGBTQ+-friendly support networks outside the country
  • Consider whether travel to CAR is necessary given the risks
  • Ensure your embassy is aware of your presence and can provide consular support
  • Maintain low profile regarding personal relationships and identity
  • Be prepared for hostile reactions if sexual orientation becomes known

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance with guaranteed medical evacuation coverage is absolutely mandatory for travel to CAR and should be considered a non-negotiable requirement. The complete absence of adequate medical facilities means that any serious illness or injury requires immediate evacuation to another country for treatment. Insurance should be from a reputable provider with proven experience in high-risk evacuations and 24/7 emergency response capability.

Medical evacuation with minimum $500,000 coverage to facilities in Nairobi, Paris, or other cities with quality hospitals Comprehensive medical coverage including emergency treatment Repatriation of remains in case of death Security evacuation coverage in case of armed conflict, civil unrest, or natural disaster Trip cancellation and interruption due to security situations Coverage for high-risk destinations and conflict zones (verify CAR is covered) Emergency dental coverage Coverage for adventure activities if applicable 24/7 emergency assistance hotline with satellite phone capability Coverage for personal liability Lost or stolen belongings (though keep expectations realistic)
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