A long layover in Loubomo is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Ngot Nzoungou Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 45 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave DIS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Congo (Brazzaville). Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Loubomo takes about 45 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is XAF. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some XAF in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from DIS to Loubomo
You have two main options for getting from Ngot Nzoungou Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Loubomo might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$7 USD
- A meal: ~$13 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$30 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Loubomo, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to See and Do in Loubomo
For a layover visit to Loubomo, we’d suggest Grand Marché de Dolisie (Dolisie Market) and Cathédrale Sainte Jeanne d’Arc de Dolisie. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at DIS, check out Airport Waiting Area or Basic Kiosk & Souvenir Stand to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near DIS
For food in Loubomo, local travelers recommend Restaurant La Renaissance. If you have time for a second stop, Auberge de la Piste Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at DIS, Airport Snack Bar is the go-to. Departure Hall Refreshments rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at DIS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Loubomo itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and DIS is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Loubomo and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at DIS
Long overnight layover? Your options at DIS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Congo (Brazzaville) also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Loubomo count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave DIS. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.