Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to do, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as DRC or Congo-Kinshasa, is a country located in Central Africa. With a population of over 100 million, it is the second-largest country in Africa by area and fourth-largest in population. It is renowned for its diversity of wildlife, natural resources, and cultural heritage. Although tourism to DRC is still in its infancy, adventurous travelers can discover an unforgettable experience here.

List of Places to Visit in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The DRC has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore several museums and historical places. Some of the must-see attractions include:

  • National Museum of Kinshasa: Located in the capital city, the museum showcases Congo’s history and culture through a vast collection of artifacts, art, and sculptures.
  • Livingstone Falls: This place is named after the famous explorer David Livingstone, and visitors can admire the magnificent waterfalls.
  • Kinshasa Declaration Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the Non-Aligned Movement, and visitors can learn about the 1961 conference and its significance to Congo and the world.

Natural Attractions of Democratic Republic of the Congo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

DRC prides itself on its biodiversity and has impressive natural attractions that include:

  • Virunga National Park: One of the world’s most bio-diverse parks, extends from the eastern border to Lake Edward, and visitors can find an array of wildlife like gorillas, elephants, hippos, and over 700 species of birds here.
  • Lofoi Falls: These waterfalls are an ideal site for those looking for a scenic view, and they are the largest waterfalls in the DRC.
  • Nyiragongo Volcano: If you crave adventure, you can hike this active volcano and gaze at the world’s largest lava lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Democratic Republic of the Congo

DRC is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts with many hiking and biking routes to explore. Here are some popular routes worth checking out:

  • The Nyiragongo Trek: Visitors can hike up the active volcano Nyiragongo and camp overnight beside the world’s largest lava lake.
  • The Rwenzori Mountains: This challenging and mystical alpine trek takes you through the highest mountain range in Africa.
  • The Congo Nile Trail: This stunning 227-kilometer biking route runs along the east side of Lake Kivu, and visitors can discover beautiful lakeside villages and marvel at the beautiful landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Democratic Republic of the Congo: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, visitors can enjoy several other activities and tours in the DRC, and these include:

  • Gorilla Trekking: This is a rare and incredible experience offered in DRC, and visitors can trek through the Virunga National Park and encounter gorillas.
  • River Kayaking: For adventure seekers, guided kayaking tours along the Congo River offer a unique view of the lush jungle scenery and wildlife.
  • Cultural Tours: Visitors can explore local markets, discover traditional customs, and attend music festivals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Democratic Republic of the Congo

For those planning a weeklong vacation in DRC, here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Kinshasa and explore the city
2-4 Visit Virunga National Park and trek to see gorillas
5 Hike Nyiragongo Volcano and camp overnight
6 River kayaking along the Congo River
7 Departure from Kinshasa

Food and Drink Scene of Democratic Republic of the Congo

Must-Try Dishes

DRC’s food scene is a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Some of the dishes that must be tried include:

  • Fufu: A starchy dish made from cassava or plantains, and it is commonly served with stew.
  • Moambe Chicken: This chicken dish is slow-cooked in palm nut sauce and is a staple food in the DRC.
  • Saka Saka: A traditional Congolese vegetable stew that can contain chicken, beef or fish.

Local Beverages

Visitors can quench their thirst with a variety of local beverages in DRC, and some of these include:

  • Palm Wine: A traditional drink made from the sap of palm trees.
  • Mbele: A non-alcoholic drink made from maize and served cold.
  • Lubumbashi Beer: A popular beer brewed in the DRC, and it comes in several varieties.

Where to Stay in Democratic Republic of the Congo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

In DRC, visitors can find a range of accommodations to fit their budget, and options include:

  • Hotel Memling: Located in Kinshasa’s city center, it offers world-class amenities and comfort.
  • Accommodation Wagenia: A popular hostel in Kisangani, and it brings travelers closer to nature.
  • Lola ya Bonobo Guesthouse: Located near Kinshasa, this guesthouse offers a unique experience to visitors, where they can interact with bonobos.

What to Buy in Democratic Republic of the Congo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take a piece of DRC with them by purchasing souvenirs, traditional crafts, and local products. Some popular items to consider buying include:

  • Wooden masks: Hand-carved from wood and decorated with intricate designs, they are an excellent way to bring Congolese art home.
  • Basketry: Made from rattan or other natural fibers, they are an ideal souvenir to showcase Congo’s culture of weaving.
  • Coffee: The DRC produces some of the finest coffee beans globally, and it is an excellent present for coffee lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Democratic Republic of the Congo

The DRC is home to several ethnic groups, and each has its unique customs and traditions. Visitors can explore the country’s rich culture by attending music festivals, participating in cultural tours, or visiting traditional villages.

Best Time to Visit Democratic Republic of the Congo

The best time to visit the DRC is during the dry season, which lasts from June to September in most parts of the country. It is ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and gorilla trekking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Democratic Republic of the Congo

Do:

  • Research and prepare carefully before visiting the country.
  • Be respectful of the local culture and people.
  • Follow instructions from local guides and authorities.

Don’t:

  • Bring valuables or display them openly.
  • Travel alone at night.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Democratic Republic of the Congo

The DRC has a reputation for being a challenging destination for travelers due to political instability, occasional conflict, and high crime rates. Therefore, visitors must take precautions when traveling to the country. It is advisable to travel with reputable guides, avoid traveling alone, and be cautious in crowded areas.

Health in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Visitors to the DRC must take necessary health precautions before traveling, including up-to-date vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis. It is always advisable to consult with a travel doctor before embarking on a trip.

Getting to Democratic Republic of the Congo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Democratic Republic of the Congo

The DRC has several airports, including:

  • N’Djili International Airport: Located in Kinshasa and the largest airport in the country.
  • Lubumbashi International Airport: This airport serves the second-largest city in the DRC.

Bus Stations Near Democratic Republic of the Congo

DRC shares a bus station with neighboring countries such as Uganda and Rwanda, and traveler can use services from bus companies like:

  • Peace International Buses: They connect Kigali with cities in the DRC.
  • Virunga Express: They connect Goma with cities in Uganda.

Other Options

There are other modes of transportation available to travel within the DRC, including:

  • Taxis: They are available in major towns and cities and can be booked for individual or group travel.
  • Trains: The Congo Railway Company operates trains for passengers between major cities in the country.

How to Get Around in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Various modes of transportation are available for visitors in the DRC, including:

  • Taxi brousse: These are shared taxis that operate within and between cities.
  • Boats: Visitors can opt for river transportation in cities along the Congo River.
  • Private Car: Visitors can rent a car with a driver to tour around the country.

Where to Go Next from Democratic Republic of the Congo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can continue their journey from the DRC by exploring some nearby destinations such as:

  • Rwanda: This is home to several national parks and is famous for its mountain gorillas.
  • Uganda: Travelers can explore several national parks and go gorilla trekking.

Conclusion

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a relatively undiscovered destination with diverse natural resources, wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage. Travelers that plan their trip to DRC with this comprehensive guide will undoubtedly have a memorable and adventurous experience.

Map of Democratic Republic of the Congo with regions colour coded Map of Democratic Republic of the Congo with regions colour coded The mighty Congo River The mighty Congo River Grand market Kinshasa in 1974 Grand market Kinshasa in 1974 Congolese citizens demonstrating in Kinshasa Congolese citizens demonstrating in Kinshasa Visa policy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Visa policy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Railway between Kinshasa and Matadi Railway between Kinshasa and Matadi Kinshasa-N'djili Airport Kinshasa-N'djili Airport Map of ground & water transport. Map of ground & water transport. Embarking at the railway station in Matadi for the capital Kinshasa, this is the best railway service in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Embarking at the railway station in Matadi for the capital Kinshasa, this is the best railway service in Democratic Republic of the Congo. Epulu River Epulu River "Bread bike" UN peacekeepers near Goma UN peacekeepers near Goma Tower of Limete and OPatrice Lumumba statue in Kinshasa Tower of Limete and OPatrice Lumumba statue in Kinshasa


    Congo Basin
    Katanga
    Kivu
    Western DRC