What we experienced
On the shell islands, a crowd of kids comes to meet us. Ours played chase with them: the universal language of children. It’s magical.
On these islands, lots of things grow and there’s fishing: nobody goes hungry. The relationship with visitors is healthy, nobody asked us for money, and that creates a really good atmosphere. It’s the absolute best moment of the trip.
The mangrove is stunning. At times, the boat stops and you can’t hear a thing… it’s incredible. There are monkeys, snakes, crocodiles and hippos, which you need to steer clear of: we asked the guide, it’s too dangerous. We saw little birds and monkeys.
On the way back, we bought prawns and had them cooked in Nsiamfumu: super tasty!
On the islands, there’s a crowd of kids: ours played chase with them, the universal language of children. It was magical.
On video
On the shell island
The highlight of the trip: a crowd of kids, chases on the sand, the universal language of children. Nobody asked us for money, the atmosphere was healthy and warm.
Our videos with sound
The highlight of the trip. The children’s faces are blurred.
Video with sound: press play.
Video with sound: press play.
Practical info
Getting there
- The boat leaves from Banana, at the tip of the river mouth.
- Visits only with the ICCN guide, the park’s only approved guide.
- Leave from Banana rather than Boma: $500 less.
Prices (marine park)
| Entry, per person | 50 $ |
| Entry, under 6s | 25 $ |
| Boat, one-day tour | 125 $ |
| Boat, 2-day tour | 250 $ |
| Night in the park, lunch included | $25 / person |
The boat takes 8 passengers and the price is shared. Example, 3 adults and 3 kids over 6: $425.
What to pack
- Cap, sunglasses, sun cream
- Plastic shoes, waterproof bag
- Mosquito repellent, small first-aid kit
- Photocopies of passport and visa, two sets
Park rules
Outside food and drink are not allowed unless you’re on a special diet: meals are ordered from a list the day before. Water included, 2 litres per person per day.
The day’s budget
$425 for a family of 6, boat included
The guide gives you the hour-by-hour schedule, the full checklist and the day’s budget. The €89 offer puts you in touch with the guide on the spot.
FAQ
How much does a visit to the Muanda mangroves cost?
$50 per person ($25 for under 6s), plus $125 for the boat, shared between a maximum of 8 passengers.
Where does the boat leave from?
From Banana. Leaving from Boma costs $500 more.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes: it’s the day our kids loved most, especially playing with the island kids.