Palaeo-environmental and -climatic data from core CEN-17.4 from the central Congo peatlands, Likouala Department (1°11'0.49"N, 17°38'23.7"E) and data from supporting cores. Bulk organic (TOC, TN, C/N) data and Rock Eval data to assess peat occurrence and degradation status for the central core CEN-17.4 and supporting cores. Radiocarbon dates on fine fractions for all cores. Plant-wax derived n-alkane stable carbon (δ^13^C) and stable hydrogen (δD) isotope data to assess vegetation changes and rainfall changes for the central core CEN-17.4. Selected pollen data for the central core CEN-17.4 to assess palaeo-ecological changes.