Yes, eating with your hands is common, especially when sharing communal dishes like cassava or plantains, but always use your right hand as the left is considered unclean.

Show respect by slightly bowing your head and offering a formal greeting, such as 'Balao' (hello) or 'Mbïrïngö' (good morning), followed by a handshake with your right hand.

Public transportation often involves shared taxis or bush taxis, which don’t depart until full; be prepared for delays and bring water for long waits.

Tipping isn’t expected but is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is sufficient, especially in informal settings.

Visit during the dry season (December to April) for easier access to parks like Dzanga-Sangha, as heavy rains in the wet season can make roads impassable.

Meals are often communal, and it’s polite to wait for the host to invite you to start eating; refusing food can be seen as disrespectful.

Avoid photographing government buildings, military personnel, or religious ceremonies without explicit permission, as it can be seen as intrusive.

Opt for locally owned guesthouses and eat at small roadside eateries, where meals are both affordable and authentic.

Try 'Kanda ti nyma,' a dish made with ground peanuts and meat, often served with cassava or plantains, for a true taste of local cuisine.

Support community-based tourism initiatives, avoid single-use plastics, and respect wildlife by not purchasing products made from endangered species.

Learn a few basic phrases in Sango, the lingua franca, and use gestures or a translation app; locals appreciate the effort to connect.

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their homes; some communities may request a small fee or decline altogether.