Salonga National Park Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Salonga National Park with our comprehensive travel guide featuring popular landmarks, hiking trails, local cuisine, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Salonga National Park

Nestled in the heart of the Congo Basin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Salonga National Park is one of the largest tropical rainforests in the world. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and an ecologically important reserve that features a diverse array of flora and fauna, including bonobo apes, leopards, forest elephants, and more than 1,000 species of birds.

Salonga National Park also has a rich cultural heritage as it’s home to several indigenous tribes. The park is an ideal destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural enthusiasts as it showcases the best of both worlds.

List of Places to Visit in Salonga National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Iyondji Community Reserve: A community-owned reserve that provides an opportunity to learn about the traditional ways of life of the indigenous people living around Salonga National Park.
  • Kisangani City: The third-largest city in the DRC, Kisangani is replete with historic landmarks and museums, such as Stanley Falls and the Museum of Central Africa.
  • Kongo Kingdom Site: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in Mbanza Kongo, Angola, and showcases the remnants of the Kongo Kingdom, one of the prominent pre-colonial African states.

Natural Attractions of Salonga National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tshuapa River: An adventure-filled river that provides an opportunity to review primates, birds, and other wildlife.
  • Lomako River: A must-visit spot for birdwatchers, this tranquil river harbors several rare bird species, including the Congo Peafowl and the Narrow-tailed Starling.
  • Boyoma Falls: Also known as the Stanley Falls, the Boyoma Falls offer a scenic view of the wild river rapids and are often frequented by fishermen.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Salonga National Park

  • The Salonga Trek: This multi-day trek takes you through the remote regions of Salonga National Park and offers an opportunity to explore the dense forest, observe the rich wildlife and meet the indigenous tribes living in the wilderness.
  • The Lomami Trek: This adventure-packed three-day trek takes you through the Lomami River and its surrounding forest, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
  • The Tshuapa Trek: This scenic trek along the Tshuapa River takes you through the heart of Salonga National Park and provides an excellent opportunity to spot primates, such as bonobos and chimpanzees.

Best Things to Do in Salonga National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Viewing: Salonga National Park is home to over 40 endangered and rare species, including bonobos, forest elephants, and 21 species of primates. Take a guided tour to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Birdwatching: With over 1000 species of birds, Salonga National Park is a paradise for bird lovers. Hire a guide to explore the various water bodies in the forest and catch sight of exotic species such as the Congo Peafowl and Yellow-crested Helmet-Shrike.
  • Cultural Tours: Meet the indigenous tribal communities around the park and learn about their unique traditions and customs. Visit the Iyondji Community Reserve, where you can see various cultural demonstrations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Salonga National Park

Day 1: Arrive in Kinshasa, the capital city of the DRC, and catch a connecting flight to Kisangani.

Day 2&3: Explore the museums, cultural sites, and historical landmarks around Kisangani.

Day 4-7: Start the Salonga Trek or any other preferred hiking trail, explore the dense forest, and observe the rich wildlife of the region.

Food and Drink Scene of Salonga National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fufu and Ndakala: This traditional Congolese dish is made from cassava and is often paired with a rich and spicy meat stew.
  • Kwanga and Madesu: Made from corn, these are popular snacks in the DRC, often served with a side of peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Palm Wine: This alcoholic beverage is made from the sap of palm trees and is often served fresh and fermented, with a tangy and sour taste.
  • Kwanza: A refreshing beverage made from maize, millet or sorghum, often flavored with fruit juice.

Where to Stay in Salonga National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Bombo Lumene Eco Lodge: A sustainable eco-lodge located outside Salonga National Park, offering comfortable and eco-friendly accommodation.
  • Guest House Patrick: A budget-friendly guest house located in Kisangani, perfect for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Salonga National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional Craftwork: The indigenous communities around Salonga National Park create unique and beautiful handmade crafts such as baskets, necklaces, and pottery.
  • Local Textiles: The DRC is famous for its colorful and intricate textiles, often adorned with African motifs.

Local Culture and Customs of Salonga National Park

The indigenous tribes living around Salonga National Park have a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should respect their traditions and customs. The primary tribes in the region are the Bantu and the Mongo, who often display traditional dances and music during cultural events.

Best Time to Visit Salonga National Park

The best time to visit Salonga National Park is from April to September, during the dry season when it is easier to navigate through the dense forest and observe wildlife.

Do’s and Don’ts of Salonga National Park

Do:

  • Book tours and accommodation in advance.
  • Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs are not readily available around the park.
  • Respect the environment and wildlife by avoiding littering and disturbing animals.

Don’t:

  • Enter the park without a licensed guide.
  • Feed the wildlife or attempt to engage with them.
  • Disrespect the cultural traditions of the indigenous communities around the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Salonga National Park

Salonga National Park is a remote and wild region, so visitors should take adequate precautions to ensure their safety. Always travel with a licensed guide, avoid venturing out after dark, and listen to the instructions of your tour operator.

Health in Salonga National Park

Visitors should consider getting vaccinated against yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever before traveling to the region. It is also advisable to carry insect repellent, sunscreen and drink only bottled or treated water.

Getting to Salonga National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Salonga National Park

The nearest airport to Salonga National Park is Kisangani Bangoka International Airport, located about 100 km from the park.

Bus Stations Near Salonga National Park

Regular buses run between Kisangani and Salonga National Park, taking about six hours to complete the journey.

Other Options

Charter flights and boats are also available for those who prefer a faster and more convenient mode of transport.

How to Get Around in Salonga National Park

The best way to explore Salonga National Park is either on foot, by bike, or by boat. Wildlife tours come with a licensed guide, and visitors can also charter boats for exploring the various water bodies around the park.

Where to Go Next from Salonga National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Garamba National Park: Head north from Salonga National Park to visit Garamba National Park, home to herds of elephants and a diverse array of wildlife.
  • Virunga National Park: Located to the south of Salonga National Park, Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its active volcanoes and mountain gorillas.

Conclusion

Salonga National Park offers an immersive experience into the heart of the Congo Basin and showcases the best of Africa’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From adventurous hikes to wildlife safaris and cultural excursions, there’s something for every kind of traveler to explore and discover. Plan your visit today to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Lulilaka River within Salonga National Park. Lulilaka River within Salonga National Park.