Congo in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Congo
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Lush green landscapes at peak beauty - waterfalls like Chutes de Loufoulakari flow at maximum volume with 180mm (7.1 inches) monthly rainfall creating spectacular viewing conditions
- Dramatically fewer tourists - June sees 60% fewer visitors than dry season, meaning better wildlife viewing opportunities and lower accommodation rates
- Prime gorilla tracking season - Mountain gorillas are more active in cooler wet weather, staying at lower altitudes around 800-1000m (2,625-3,281 ft) making encounters more likely
- River transport operates at full capacity - Congo River and tributaries reach optimal levels for navigation, opening remote areas normally inaccessible during dry months
Considerations
- Daily heavy rainfall from 2-6pm - afternoon thunderstorms dump 15-25mm (0.6-1 inch) in 2-3 hours, making outdoor activities challenging without proper timing
- Road conditions deteriorate significantly - unpaved routes become nearly impassable, adding 2-3 hours to journey times between major destinations
- High malaria risk - Standing water from frequent rains increases mosquito breeding, requiring strict prophylaxis and protective measures especially during dawn/dusk hours
Best Activities in June
Odzala-Kokoua National Park Wildlife Safaris
June's wet conditions concentrate wildlife around permanent water sources, creating exceptional viewing opportunities. Elephants gather in large herds near park rivers, and the 85% humidity keeps animals active during cooler morning hours (6-9am). Rain stops by evening, perfect for night safaris when forest sounds amplify.
Congo River Multi-Day Boat Expeditions
June's high water levels allow boats to navigate tributary channels normally too shallow, reaching remote villages and pristine fishing areas. River temperatures stay comfortable at 26°C (79°F) while afternoon rains create dramatic sky shows over the water. Local fishing communities are most active during wet season.
Sangha Trinational Forest Gorilla Tracking
Wet season brings gorillas to lower elevations as they follow fruiting trees. June tracking starts at 6am before rains begin, with 75% success rates compared to 60% in dry season. Forest canopy provides natural shelter, and muddy conditions preserve fresh gorilla tracks for easier following.
Brazzaville Cultural Walking Tours
June rains keep daytime temperatures to a comfortable 28°C (82°F), perfect for exploring the capital's markets and colonial architecture. Morning hours (7-11am) offer ideal conditions before afternoon storms. Wet season brings fresh produce to markets and outdoor music performances move to covered venues.
Lesio-Louna Gorilla Sanctuary Visits
Rehabilitated gorillas are most active during June's cooler, cloudy conditions. Wet season viewing platforms provide covered observation points during the frequent 20-30 minute afternoon showers. Sanctuary staff report higher gorilla interaction rates when humidity exceeds 80%.
Pointe-Noire Beach and Port Activities
Coastal location moderates June temperatures to 27°C (81°F) with ocean breezes. Wet season brings spectacular lightning storms over the Atlantic, best viewed from covered beachfront restaurants. Local fishing boats return with larger catches due to increased river nutrients flowing to sea.
June Events & Festivals
Festival des Arts de Brazzaville
Annual celebration of Congolese music, dance, and visual arts featuring indoor venues to accommodate wet season weather. Traditional performances blend with contemporary African art in climate-controlled galleries and covered outdoor stages.
Fête de la Pêche
Coastal fishing festival in Pointe-Noire celebrating wet season fishing traditions when river nutrients create abundant offshore catches. Features traditional dugout canoe competitions and fresh fish markets under covered pavilions.