Souanke

Souanké is a remote logging town in north-eastern Sangha department, near the border with Cameroon and the Central African Republic. It is situated near the Sangha Trinational UNESCO site and serves as a base for accessing the northern sectors of the transboundary protected area.

The climate is equatorial with heavy rainfall. The dry seasons (December–February, June–September) are the most accessible periods.

By Plane

The nearest air access is via Ouésso Airport (120 km south-west).

By Car / Road

Souanké is accessible via unpaved road from Ouésso. A 4WD is essential. The journey takes 3–4 hours in the dry season.

Walking within the town.

• Sangha Trinational border area — Souanké is the closest settlement to the tri-border area with Cameroon and CAR.

• Logging operations — Industrial logging is the main economic activity.

• Visit the Sangha Trinational buffer zone — With a guide, explore the forest areas near the UNESCO site boundary.

Small eateries serve simple meals.

Bottled water and soft drinks available.

Basic logging camp accommodation may be available with advance arrangement.

Basic supplies at local shops.

• Ouésso (120 km south-west, 3–4 hours by 4WD) — The departmental capital.
• Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park — Accessible from Ouésso.