Sunday in Brazzaville
Good day on this Sunday, January 11th. I was still in Brazzaville and wanted to learn more about the ferry to Kinshasa. Even though I had already decided not to take that route, I was curious. I had heard that the road from Kinshasa to Matadi could be challenging, and the ferry itself hasn’t had the best safety record over the past 20 years. I just wanted to get a better sense of it for myself.
Breakfast and a Conversation with VG
Before reaching the ferry area, I stopped for breakfast and found a wonderful bakery with great coffee and fresh baked goods—exactly the kind of place I enjoy. There, I met VG, a man from India who had been in Brazzaville for about two months, working for an Indian trading company.
He works in accounting, handling receivables. The company brings employees from India on an all-expenses-paid basis, but their salaries are sent directly back home. As a result, they have little to no spending money locally and rarely go out. VG had finally managed to get out on a Sunday to explore a bit. He shared how frustrating it was to feel so restricted. It was eye-opening to hear how the arrangement worked and how limiting it felt for him.
Exploring the Ferry Terminal
After breakfast, I drove toward the ferry terminal and stopped by the Hilton Hotel to take in the view from Brazzaville. Across the river, I could see Kinshasa. I also took a few photos before parking near where the ferry would depart.
By paying 150 CFA, I was allowed onto the ferry grounds. The area was disorganized and under construction, and it wasn’t even clear where the main ferry would dock. The large ferry itself wasn’t there. Smaller boats were available, but not if you had a car. Seeing the situation confirmed my decision to travel toward Matadi another way—via Cabinda.
Scenes Along the River
While exploring, I noticed a small diesel truck with Dutch writing on it—likely a vehicle no longer viable in the Netherlands but still very useful here. I see quite a few of those from time to time.
The place I’m staying is fantastic, right along the Congo River. There’s even white water nearby, and the sheer volume of water flowing through is impressive, especially when it rains. I got caught in a rainstorm while sitting under the metal roof of the outdoor restaurant. The rain made plenty of noise, but it was almost drowned out by the roaring white water of the river.
A Rainy Ending
At one point, I realized there was no covered path back to my room. Eventually, someone appeared with an umbrella and helped me get back to the hotel. You truly never know what will happen next. It was another adventurous and memorable day. Thanks for coming along.
