Two Trips to Gorilla Land and the Cataracts of the Congo

This two-volume 1876 work by Sir Richard Burton (1821–90) records expeditions made in West Africa in the 1860s.

"Two Trips to Gorilla Land and the Cataracts of the Congo," first published in 1876, is a comprehensive account of the West African expeditions undertaken by the renowned explorer and diplomat Sir Richard Burton during his time as consul in Equatorial Guinea in the 1860s. This two-volume work documents Burton's adventures, with the second volume focusing on his journey from Fernando Po to Loango Bay and along the Congo River. Through his detailed observations, Burton provides a vivid portrayal of the landscapes, cultures, and challenges he encountered.

Burton, a prominent figure in exploration and ethnography, was appointed consul to Fernando Po in 1861, where he spent four years before moving to Brazil. His writings reflect both his experiences and the complexities of European influence in Africa. In his preface, he asserts that the true nature of African life has not been accurately represented in Britain, criticizing the failures of English colonial efforts in the region. This candid perspective offers readers a glimpse into the realities of colonialism during that era.

Of particular interest in the second volume is the chapter titled "The slaver and the missionary in the Congo River," where Burton shares his conflicted views on the European presence in Africa. This chapter, along with the appendices containing geographical observations, highlights the duality of exploration—both as a means of discovery and a source of ethical dilemmas. Overall, Burton’s work serves as an important historical document that sheds light on the intricate dynamics of 19th-century exploration and colonialism in West Africa.