Pointe-Noire
Republic of the Congo
- Safety rating
- 4.5/10
- Best time to visit
- The dry season from May to September is ideal for the coast and city.
- Population
- 1.4M
Overview
The Republic of the Congo's economic powerhouse and main port, Pointe-Noire blends oil-industry bustle with palm-fringed Atlantic beaches. Its lively markets and seafront make it a more upbeat coastal counterpart to the capital.
Top attractions
Relax on the Côte Sauvage beaches, browse the Grand Marché, and admire the colonial-era railway station.
Getting around
Shared taxis and minibuses serve the city; flag a private 'course' for direct trips and the central area is walkable.