RouteBrazzaville

Pool Malebo: Two Capitals Facing Each Other Across the Congo

Brazzaville and Kinshasa are the world's closest pair of capital cities — separated by the Congo River at Pool Malebo — and the river crossing is one of Africa's most dramatic border experiences

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1
Brazzaville Beach Waterfront
The shore along the Congo River is Brazzaville's living shore — pirogues landing from Kinshasa, fishermen with their nets and the extraordinary sight of the DRC's capital across the water
2
Congo River Ferry Crossing
The official passenger ferry passes between the two capitals in less than 30 minutes — the crossing requires documentation but is the main link between Congo and one of the world's most unusual commutes
3
Pool Malebo Islands
The large islands between the two towns in Pool Malebo are inhabited and farmed — some are disputed territory between the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo, navigated by local fishermen
4
Kinshasa Skyline from Brazzaville
From the water in Brazzaville, Kinshasa's skyline is clearly visible — the contrast between the two cities' development reflects decades of different political choices
5
Pirogue Traders' Landing
The informal pirogue traders who cross the river daily with goods move between the two economies — the informal economy of the Congo River is a fascinating border phenomenon
6
Congo River Sunsets
Sunset from the shores of Brazzaville — the vast Congo River turning orange, the silhouette of Kinshasa's towers and the pirogues crossing in the last light