2-3 hour experience | From US$ 700
Explore: We receive many requests from guests wishing to experience the local Sapeurs or La Sape, a slang abbreviation based on the French word sape, meaning ‘attire’. This refers to the Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes (Society for Creators of Ambiance and Elegant People) which is a subculture centred on the cities of Brazzaville and Kinshasa but growing in followers throughout Central and West Africa. Spending time with the Sapeurs, you will be enlightened and taught the rules of elegance, through parades, dance and walking the town.
Also known as the ‘Congo Dandies’, an afternoon or evening with the Sapeurs will take you a step back into the 50s, submerging you in elegance, style and colourful dress – though never more than 3 colours. Members originate from all walks of life and levels of society, from lawyers to street sweepers, and members simply have to observe the rules of elegance and style in their daily lives and regular dress, not only when in ‘costume’ or on show.
This experience is ideal for groups, though is available to individual guests, and requires advance booking as all Sapeurs have full-time employment.
Depending on the day, you will visit key attractions such as Poto-Poto Textile Market and Painting School, Marche Plateau Ville, St. Anne’s Basilica, Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial, ending up for a drink overlooking the mighty Congo River, followed by sunset driving along La Corniche and the Independence Bridge.
COST: US$ 700 per person for the 1st two people, US$ 100 for every additional person thereafter
DURATION: 2 – 3 hours
START TIME: Afternoon or evening
DETAILS:
- Transport to and from the experience
- Includes water and snacks on the bus
- Includes 2 local beverages per person and snacks on demand
- Includes photos with Sapeurs (though must be requested of the individual before taking)
- Excludes gratuities for the driver and guide(s)
