Things to Do in Bouar

Bouar has dozens of ancient stone monuments scattered across its countryside—some over 1,000 years old. This town of ~40,000 sits in CAR's western highlands, serving as Nana-Mambéré prefecture's capital along the main Bangui-Cameroon highway. The landscape here is surprisingly green and hilly compared to other parts of the country. These granite monoliths represent one of Central Africa's biggest archaeological mysteries, arranged in geometric patterns that hint at sophisticated pre-colonial civilizations. The town itself feels like frontier territory—wide dirt streets and low buildings mixing French colonial influence with local design.

The food scene is straightforward but good. Several small restaurants serve Central African staples like cassava, plantains, and grilled meat with locally grown vegetables, while market food stalls offer fresh fruit and simple meals at rock-bottom prices. A few places cater to travelers with rice dishes or basic pasta—nothing fancy but fresh and flavorful. Local beer and palm wine flow freely. You can sometimes find locally produced coffee, reflecting the region's agricultural strength.

November through April delivers the best conditions. The dry season means cooler temperatures, clear skies, and better road access to remote sites, with December through February feeling cool in the evenings due to elevation. The rainy season from May to October brings lush landscapes but also impassable roads and afternoon thunderstorms that limit outdoor activities—though the region looks beautiful then. Coffee harvest season runs November to February. That said, Bouar's elevation makes it more comfortable than other CAR destinations even during warmer months.