Mbuji-Mayi - Discovering Democratic Republic of the Congo

Travelling to Mbuji-Mayi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mbuji-Mayi, 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 Mbuji-Mayi 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 Mbuji-Mayi, 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 Mbuji-Mayi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mbuji-Mayi

Mbuji-Mayi is the third largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, located in the southeast of the country. It is the capital of Kasai-Oriental province and an important center for the diamond trade. The city has a population of over 2 million people and is served by the Mbuji Mayi Airport. Mbuji-Mayi is known for its vibrant markets, including the Tshikapa Market, as well as its natural attractions such as the Lubi River and the Kundelungu National Park. The city has a hot and humid tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

What to visit in Mbuji-Mayi

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Mbuji-Mayi, DRC, along with some basic information: 1. Kasai Oriental Art Museum - This museum showcases a diverse range of art and artifacts from the Kasai Oriental province of the DRC, including traditional handicrafts, textiles, and sculptures.
2. Ngandanjika National Park - This park is home to a wide variety of rare and endangered animal species, including the okapi, the Congo peafowl, and the forest elephant. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and hiking trails through the park's lush forests and grasslands.
3. Tshikapa Diamond Mines - Mbuji-Mayi is known for its diamond industry, and tourists can visit the Tshikapa mines to learn about the process of diamond extraction and see workers in action.
4. Kabongo Market - This bustling market is a great place to explore the local culture and pick up souvenirs such as handmade crafts, jewelry, and textiles.
5. Notre-Dame de Lourdes Cathedral - This beautiful cathedral is one of the oldest and most historic landmarks in Mbuji-Mayi, with stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows.
6. Kankwala Falls - These picturesque waterfalls are located just outside of Mbuji-Mayi and offer a refreshing escape from the city. Visitors can swim in the pools below the falls or enjoy a picnic on the surrounding grounds.
7. Kibara Plateau - This high plateau offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, along with opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.
Please note, however, that the DRC continues to have security concerns, particularly in certain areas. It is always recommended to check with the local authorities for the most up-to-date safety information before planning a trip.
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 Mbuji-Mayi.

When to go on holiday to Mbuji-Mayi

The best time to travel to Mbuji-Mayi (Democratic Republic of the Congo) is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and pleasant, with cooler temperatures than the hotter and more humid wet season. However, it's important to note that the Democratic Republic of the Congo can face security challenges and travel advisories should be checked before making travel plans.

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

How to get to Mbuji-Mayi

The main way to reach Mbuji-Mayi in the Democratic Republic of Congo is by air because of the huge distance involved. Here are the nearest international airports that you can fly to: 1. N'djili Airport (Kinshasa) From N'djili Airport, you can take a domestic flight to Mbuji-Mayi Airport. This journey should take around 3 hours.
2. Lubumbashi International Airport (Lubumbashi) From Lubumbashi International Airport, you can take a domestic flight to Mbuji-Mayi Airport. It should take a similar amount of time to fly from Lubumbashi as from Kinshasa.
Please note that services between Mbuji-Mayi - N'djili/Lubumbashi flights are limited and are operated by Congolese airlines only. Always make sure to check the current safety and security situation before making any travel arrangements to the DRC.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mbuji-Mayi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mbuji-Mayi

Mbuji-Mayi is known for its traditional cuisine which includes a variety of dishes. Some of the typical foods of Mbuji-Mayi are: 1. Moambe: It is a stew made with chicken or beef and cooked with a sauce made from palm nuts. It is served with rice or fufu, a starchy dough made from cassava or yam.
2. Saka-saka: It is a dish made from cassava leaves which are cooked with a bit of oil, onions, garlic, and tomato. It is often served with fufu or yams.
3. Makemba: It is a sweet snack made from ripe bananas that are peeled, sliced and then fried. It is often eaten as a dessert or a snack.
4. Pondu: Pondu is a dish made from cassava leaves cooked with a bit of oil, onions, and fish or meat. It is a popular dish among the Luba people of the region and is often served with fufu.
5. Kwanga: Kwanga is a type of bread made from cassava flour. It is a staple food in Mbuji-Mayi and is often eaten with moambe or other stews.
6. Maboke: Maboke is a dish made from fish and steamed in banana leaves. It is a popular dish in the region and is often served with a side of plantains.
7. Champignons à la Congolaise: It is a dish made with mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. It is often served as a side dish with rice or fufu.
These are some of the typical foods of Mbuji-Mayi that offer a taste of the local Congolese cuisine.
You can find general info about typical foods in Democratic Republic of the Congo here.

Is Mbuji-Mayi an expensive destination for tourists?

Mbuji-Mayi can be quite expensive for tourists due to its remote location and limited tourist infrastructure. Prices for accommodation, activities, and transportation can be higher than in other parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, if you plan your trip carefully and research your options, you can find ways to keep your costs down and still enjoy the experience of traveling to this unique destination. It is always a good idea to check prices and availability well in advance and to book as much as possible ahead of time to ensure the best rates.

Where to find accomodation in Mbuji-Mayi

Mbuji-Mayi is the third-largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, so there are traveler-friendly places to stay located around the city. The most popular areas to find accommodation include the city center, the airport area, and the neighborhoods surrounding Tshikapa. However, it's worth noting that the quality of accommodation can vary significantly across these areas, so it's a good idea to research and read reviews before making a booking.
You can check hotel prices at Mbuji-Mayi here:
Booking.com

Is Mbuji-Mayi a safe destination for tourists?

Mbuji-Mayi, like many cities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has experienced security challenges in the past. It is important to exercise caution and take measures to ensure your safety when visiting. Here are some tips to keep in mind: - Be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid walking alone at night - Exercise caution when using public transportation, as accidents and robberies are common - Keep valuables out of sight and do not carry large sums of cash - Be prepared for occasional power outages and limited access to clean water - Ensure you have all necessary travel documents and health vaccinations before you go.
As with any travel destination, it is always a good idea to research the current security situation and speak with locals or trusted sources before embarking on your trip to Mbuji-Mayi.
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 Mbuji-Mayi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mbuji-Mayi the most?

Mbuji-Mayi, the third-largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has some attractions that may appeal more to certain types of travelers. Here are some recommendations: - Couples: Mbuji-Mayi doesn't have many typical romantic spots, but a visit to the Kasaï Oriental's Botanical Garden, known for its beautiful trees, flowers, and birds, could make for a lovely date. Couples may also enjoy a walk around the city's bustling markets, trying local street food, and immersing themselves in the Congolese culture.
- Young people looking for fun: Mbuji-Mayi isn't a party destination, but there are a few places where young people can have some fun. Bars and clubs such as N'Dumba, Sun City, and Safari Bar are popular choices for dancing and mingling with locals. Visiting the nearby mining sites could also be an exciting adventure.
- Families: Mbuji-Mayi isn't the most family-friendly city, but there are a few things that could interest families traveling with kids. The city has a few parks where kids can play and parents can relax, such as Parc du Safaris and Parc Kobolo. Visiting the open-air markets and discovering the local crafts and souvenirs could also be an educational and fun activity. It's worth noting that Mbuji-Mayi isn't a typical tourist destination and is known for its poverty, low safety standards, and lack of infrastructure. Visitors should be cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

How to get around Mbuji-Mayi

In Mbuji-Mayi, you can use various forms of transportation, including taxi cabs, motorbikes, buses, and private cars. However, it's important to note that the road conditions in the city can be challenging at times, so it's recommended to use a trusted and experienced driver or opt for safer transportation options.

What to see around Mbuji-Mayi

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Mbuji-Mayi: 1. Kunda Falls: These stunning falls are located about 56 km from Mbuji-Mayi, and they make for a great escape from the city. The surrounding tropical forest is beautiful and there's a swimming hole at the base of the falls.
2. Tshikapa River: The Tshikapa River runs through the city of Tshikapa, which is about 190 km from Mbuji-Mayi. The river is beautiful and there's a market on the banks of the river where you can buy local goods.
3. Lubilanji Caves: These caves are located about 70 km from Mbuji-Mayi and are a great place to explore. The caves are huge and have some interesting formations inside.
4. Lake Tumba: This beautiful lake is located about 280 km from Mbuji-Mayi and is well worth the trip. You can take a boat ride around the lake and see the many species of birds that call it home.
5. Shaba National Reserve: This reserve is located about 260 km from Mbuji-Mayi and is home to many species of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, and lions. You can take a guided safari tour through the reserve to see the animals up close.
For every travel information about Democratic Republic of the Congo you can click here.

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