Kalima - Discovering Democratic Republic of the Congo

Travelling to Kalima

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kalima, a pretty good destination in Democratic Republic of the Congo (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kalima and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kalima, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Democratic Republic of the Congo, here's everything to know about Kalima for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kalima

Kalima is a town located in the Maniema province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Lualaba River, near the border with the province of South Kivu. The town has a population of around 10,000 people and is primarily known for its agricultural production, including crops such as cassava, maize, and beans. There are also some mining activities in the region, including the extraction of gold and coltan. While Kalima is not a major tourist destination, there are opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural areas.

What to visit in Kalima

I'm sorry, but I cannot provide information on tourist attractions in Kalima, Democratic Republic of the Congo as there are no significant tourist attractions located in the city. Kalima is primarily a mining and logging town with few recreational options for visitors. If you have any other travel destination that you would like me to help you with, please let me know.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Democratic Republic of the Congo, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kalima

Kalima is located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo and has a tropical climate. The best time to visit Kalima is during the dry season, which runs from June to August and from December to January. During the dry season, you will experience less rainfall and have better weather for outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that, due to the ongoing political instability and armed conflict in the region, it is recommended to check with your government's travel advisory before planning a trip to Kalima or any other area of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kalima

Kalima is a town located in the Maniema province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The nearest airport to Kalima is the Kindu Airport, which is located about 300 km north of Kalima. From Kindu, you can travel by road to reach Kalima.
There are also flights from Kinshasa to Kindu, and you can book your flight to Kinshasa through major airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways or Kenya Airways. Once you arrive in Kinshasa, you can take a domestic flight to Kindu airport.
Alternatively, you can also take a long road trip from Kinshasa to Kalima, which can take up to a few days, depending on the condition of the roads and the mode of transportation. However, it is recommended to take flights if you are traveling to Kalima, as the roads in Congo can be difficult to navigate and security can be a concern.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kalima, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kalima

Sure, here are some typical foods of Kalima, Democratic Republic of the Congo, with a brief description for each of them: 1. Fufu: A starchy, dough-like food made from cassava, plantains, or yams that is often eaten with soup or stew.
2. Ntaba: Grilled or roasted goat meat that is often served with cassava, plantains, or rice.
3. Pondu: Stewed vegetables, often including cassava leaves or spinach, with fish, meat, or other protein added for flavor.
4. Chikwangue: Sliced and steamed cassava that is often eaten as a side dish or snack.
5. Kwanga: Fermented cassava that is often served as an accompaniment to other dishes, especially soups or stews.
6. Saka-saka: A dish made from mashed cassava or yams mixed with spinach or other leafy vegetables, often served with meat or fish.
7. Madesu: A popular snack made from ground peanuts, sugar, and sometimes honey or vanilla.
8. Liboke: A dish made by wrapping marinated meat, banana leaves, and vegetables in banana leaves and grilling or roasting.
9. Matembele: A type of leafy green vegetable that is often used in soups or stews and has a slightly bitter flavor.
10. Mbisi: A type of sourdough bread made from cassava flour that is sometimes used to make sandwiches or served as a side dish.
You can find general info about typical foods in Democratic Republic of the Congo here.

Is Kalima an expensive destination for tourists?

Generally, Kalima in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is not a popular or well-known tourist destination and lacks developed tourism infrastructure. As a result, accommodation, food, and transportation options may be limited and expensive. However, it can still be a unique and rewarding experience for adventurous travelers who are willing to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. It is recommended to plan and book well in advance, seek advice from experienced travelers or tour operators, and thoroughly research the cost of living and travel expenses in the area.

Where to find accomodation in Kalima

Kalima is a small town located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and it's mainly visited by tourists interested in hiking and exploring the local forests and wildlife.
The best areas to find accommodation in Kalima would be close to the main entrance of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, which is located just a few kilometers outside of town. There are a few hotels and lodges in the nearby area that cater to safari-goers and nature enthusiasts.
Another option is to stay in Bukavu, which is a larger city located about 140 km south of Kalima. Although there are no hotels or lodges within Kalima itself, Bukavu offers a wider range of accommodation options, including mid-range and luxury hotels. From Bukavu, you can easily organize a day trip to Kalima and explore the surrounding forests, and then return to the comfort of your hotel in the evening.
You can check hotel prices at Kalima here:
Booking.com

Is Kalima a safe destination for tourists?

Unfortunately, Kalima is not currently a safe place for tourists. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been experiencing internal conflict and violence for many years, and the security situation in many areas, including Kalima, is unstable. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory warning against all travel to the DRC due to these security concerns, including the risk of armed robbery, kidnapping, and outbreaks of disease. It is important to prioritize safety and security while traveling, and it is advisable to avoid areas that are deemed unsafe.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Democratic Republic of the Congo here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kalima.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kalima the most?

Kalima, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a great destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The primary attraction is the Okapi Wildlife Reserve, which is home to a variety of exotic animals, including the endangered okapi.
However, it's important to note that Kalima is a remote area and does not offer many tourist facilities or activities. The journey to Kalima can be quite challenging, as it involves a rough 4x4 drive from Kisangani, which takes about 2-3 days.
Therefore, Kalima may not be the ideal destination for families with young children or couples looking for a romantic getaway. However, it could be an exciting destination for adventurous solo travelers or groups of young people who are comfortable with rough travel conditions and love nature.

How to get around Kalima

In Kalima, most of the transportation is done on foot or by motorbike taxis, also called "boda-bodas". The roads are poorly maintained and there is no public transport system available. However, for longer distances or more comfort, private cars or 4x4 vehicles can also be rented with a driver. It is important to note that travel in the Democratic Republic of the Congo can be challenging and risky, especially outside of major urban areas. It is recommended to seek local advice and have a reliable driver/guide.

What to see around Kalima

Kalima, a city located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, offers many opportunities for day trips to explore nearby attractions. Here are some options: 1. Kahuzi Biega National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Eastern Lowland Gorillas. It's a great place for wildlife lovers and nature explorers.
2. Mwenga - A small town in South Kivu province which is popular for its hot springs. Visitors can enjoy a dip in the natural hot water and admire the breathtaking views.
3. Idjwi Island - Considered to be the largest inland island in Africa, Idjwi Island is a beautiful and peaceful place with sandy beaches and stunning views of Lake Kivu.
4. Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary - A sanctuary that seeks to rehabilitate rescued chimpanzees in the DRC. Visitors can see the chimpanzees up close and learn about conservation efforts.
5. Tchegera Island - A small island that offers stunning views of Lake Kivu and surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
6. Bukavu - The largest city in South Kivu province, Bukavu is a bustling city with a vibrant nightlife, local markets, and restaurants serving Congolese cuisine. Visitors can explore the city's history and culture.
For every travel information about Democratic Republic of the Congo you can click here.

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