Kisangani - Discovering Democratic Republic of the Congo

Travelling to Kisangani

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kisangani, 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 Kisangani 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 Kisangani, 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 Kisangani for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kisangani

Kisangani is a city located in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, on the Congo River. It is the capital of the Tshopo province and the third largest city in the country. Kisangani is known as the "Gateway to the Congo Rainforest" and is surrounded by dense jungle. It has a tropical climate and is home to several universities and research institutes. The city is also a major transportation hub for river and air travel. The local economy is centered around agriculture, with crops such as coffee, cocoa, and palm oil being important exports.

What to visit in Kisangani

Kisangani is a beautiful city located in the northeastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Here are some of the tourist attractions that you must check out during your visit to Kisangani: 1. Wagenia Falls: Located on the Congo River, the Wagenia falls is a spectacular waterfall that is over 12 meters high. It is famous for its traditional fishing techniques, which are still practiced by the Wagenia people who live nearby.
2. Kisangani Botanical Gardens: This botanical garden is a peaceful and tranquil place, perfect for nature lovers. It contains a variety of plant species, including rare African orchids, and is home to several bird species.
3. Stanley Falls: This magnificent waterfall is situated on the Congo River and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and lush green forests. Its beauty attracts visitors from all over the world.
4. River Islands: Kisangani is surrounded by several river islands. These islands are an ideal place to relax, unwind, and explore the local wildlife. The most famous island here is the Isangi Island.
5. The Central Market: For those interested in exploring the local culture and purchasing the authentic Congolese handicrafts, the Central Market is the best place to visit. Here you can find everything from hand-woven baskets, wooden carvings, pottery to traditional Congolese clothing.
6. The Museum of Stanleyville: This museum is a must-visit for history buffs, it tells the story of the Belgian colonial period in Kisangani and the role Kisangani played in the exploration of Central Africa.
All of these attractions are worth visiting when you come to Kisangani. Make sure to plan your trip well to explore each one of them at your own pace.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kisangani.

When to go on holiday to Kisangani

The best time to go on holiday to Kisangani is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, there is less rainfall and the temperatures are generally comfortable, ranging from around 20-28°C (68-82°F). The wet season, which lasts from October to May, sees heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels, which can make travel difficult. It's worth noting that the Democratic Republic of the Congo can experience political and security issues, so it's important to research the safety situation before planning a trip.

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

How to get to Kisangani

To get to Kisangani, you can take a flight to the Kisangani International Airport (FKI). Several airlines operate flights to the airport, including Congo Airways, Air Kasaï, and African Airways. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus or car from Kinshasa to Kisangani. The journey takes approximately 2-3 days to reach Kisangani. Please note that Democratic Republic of the Congo is known for being unstable and dangerous, and travel in the country can be challenging and unpredictable. It is strongly recommended to research the current political situation and safety conditions before planning a trip to Kisangani. Additionally, it may also be helpful to hire a local guide or tour agency to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kisangani, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kisangani

Sure, here are some typical foods of Kisangani in the Democratic Republic of Congo: 1. Kwanga: Kwanga is a traditional dish made from cassava flour. The cassava is fermented and cooked into a thick dough or porridge-like consistency.
2. Moambe: Also known as Palm Nut Soup, Moambe is a delicious and very popular dish in the Congo. It is made by boiling palm nuts and then grinding them down into a paste. The paste is then cooked with vegetables, spices, chicken, or fish.
3. Liboke: Liboke is a dish prepared with fish wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with spices, lemon juice, and vegetables. This dish is typically steamed or grilled.
4. Pondu: Pondu is a popular dish in the Congo that is made with cassava leaves, palm oil, and onions. It is typically served with mashed plantains, rice, or cassava.
5. Madesu: Madesu are deep-fried doughnuts made from wheat flour and yeast. These doughnuts are typically eaten as a quick snack or breakfast food.
6. Chikwange: Chikwange is a sweet and sticky pudding made from cassava flour, sugar, and coconut milk. The pudding is typically cooked in banana leaves and served as a dessert. 7. Roasted meat: Roasted meat is a popular street food in Kisangani. The meat is typically coated in a spicy marinade and grilled over open flames.
These are just a few examples of typical foods in Kisangani. There are many other delicious and unique dishes to discover in the region.
You can find general info about typical foods in Democratic Republic of the Congo here.

Is Kisangani an expensive destination for tourists?

Kisangani is not a popular tourist destination as it is mainly an industrial and commercial hub in the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, compared to other tourist destinations, costs in Kisangani tend to be on the higher side due to limited infrastructure and resources for tourism. Accommodation, transportation, food, and attraction prices can be relatively high. It is always advisable to plan ahead and research extensively to find affordable options for a trip to Kisangani.

Where to find accomodation in Kisangani

In Kisangani, the best areas to find accommodation would be near the Tshopo River or near the town center. Some popular locations include the Quartier Lumumba, the Quartier Makiso, and the Quartier Mangobo. These areas are convenient for exploring local attractions and offer a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious lodges. It's advisable to choose accommodation that has good security and access to transportation for ease of movement.
You can check hotel prices at Kisangani here:
Booking.com

Is Kisangani a safe destination for tourists?

The safety situation in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo can be somewhat difficult to predict. While the city has seen some improvements in security in recent years, it is still considered a high-risk destination. Tourists should be particularly cautious about theft and physical assault. It is advisable to book local guides and travel with a reputable tour operator. Additionally, travelers should check the latest travel advisories and thoroughly research the area and local customs before making travel plans.
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 Kisangani.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kisangani the most?

Kisangani, the third-largest Congolese city, is an eclectic and vibrant city that has something to offer to all kinds of travelers. Here are some types of travelers that might find Kisangani enjoyable: 1. Nature lovers: Kisangani is situated on the banks of the mighty Congo River and surrounded by dense rainforest. The city offers an excellent opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna, including rare bird species and primates.
2. Adventure seekers: The city's location on the Congo River also makes it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers. Kayaking, river rafting, and even bungee jumping are among the popular adventure activities in Kisangani.
3. Couples: Kisangani has several romantic spots, including the famous Wagenia Falls, where couples can spend quality time. The city also has plenty of restaurants and cafes that offer a romantic atmosphere.
4. Families: Kisangani has several family-friendly attractions, including the Kisangani Botanical Gardens, the city's museums, and nearby wildlife reserves. Families can also enjoy boat rides or water sports on the Congo River.
5. History buffs: Kisangani has a rich history, and travelers interested in historical facts can visit the Kisangani Museum and other historical sites, including memorials and monuments commemorating significant events in the city's past.

How to get around Kisangani

The common modes of transportation to move around Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo include taxis, motorcycle taxis, and buses. Taxis are the most comfortable and secure way to travel around the city, whereas motorcycle taxis, also known as "boda-boda," are faster and cheaper, but can be dangerous if you're not experienced with riding them. Buses are the most affordable transportation option, but may not be as reliable as taxis or motorcycle taxis.

What to see around Kisangani

There are several beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Kisangani, DRC. Here are some suggestions: 1. Boyoma Falls: This is one of the most popular attractions near Kisangani. Also known as Stanley Falls, it is a series of seven waterfalls that form a magnificent spectacle.
2. Lomami National Park: Located about 150 km from Kisangani, this park is home to some rare animals like okapis, bonobos, and more.
3. Yangambi Biosphere Reserve: This is a protected area comprising of tropical rainforest, riverine areas, and swamp forests. The reserve is located about 80 km from Kisangani.
4. Elephant Camp: Located on the outskirts of Kisangani, this camp provides an opportunity to get up close with elephants.
5. Tshopo River: This river is one of the largest tributaries of the Congo River, and it offers great opportunities for fishing, bird watching, and river cruises.
These are just a few suggestions. There are many more exciting places to visit near Kisangani, and I recommend doing some further research or consulting with a local tour operator for more options.
For every travel information about Democratic Republic of the Congo you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.