The political chaos in the Congo is well documented, but once-wary travellers are now discovering an unexplored Eden home to pygmy communities and indigenous species like the bonobo and elusive okapi. Those searching for raw adventure will find it along the hiking trails of the Ruwenzori Mountains, the caves of Mbanza-Ngungu, and the bars of Pointe Noire. The first and only guide to the heart of Africa, this groundbreaking book covers both the Democratic Republic and the Republic of Congo and provides intrepid travellers with the practical information and unique maps needed to explore this jungle region. * Full information on tracking mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park * In-depth health advice to help you plan your trip with confidence * The latest on visas and getting through the red tape * Detailed transport information * Learn the basics of Lingala, Swahili, Kituba, Tshiluba and Kinyarwanda -- the region's five languages * Many of the maps are the first ever to be published.