Uvira - Discovering Democratic Republic of the Congo

Travelling to Uvira

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

General info for a trip to Uvira

Uvira is a town located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. It is the capital city of the South Kivu Province. The town is known for its diverse ethnic population, as well as its historic importance as a trading center in colonial times. Uvira is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and nearby mountains, as well as the local culture and cuisine. However, it is important to note that the region has experienced ongoing political instability and violence in recent years, so travelers should exercise caution and be aware of potential safety risks.

What to visit in Uvira

Here are some tourist attractions in Uvira, Democratic Republic of the Congo: 1. Tanganika Lake: Tanganika Lake is the second deepest lake in the world and is located in Uvira. It covers an area of over 32,000 square kilometers and is a popular destination for fishing, swimming and sightseeing.
2. Bukavu: Bukavu is located about 40 kilometers away from Uvira and is a great place to visit if you're interested in learning about local culture and history. The city has a number of museums, including the Musee National de Bukavu and the Musee de Biega.
3. Lusinga Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Lusinga Iwa Ng'ombe, a famous Congolese chief who fought against colonial powers in the late 19th century. The museum features a collection of artifacts, including weapons, musical instruments, and traditional clothing.
4. Mountain Nyiragongo: This mountain is an active volcano located near Uvira. It's a popular destination for hikers and adventurers, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Kuvua Falls: Kuvua Falls is a beautiful waterfall located just outside of Uvira. It's a popular spot for picnics and swimming, and offers some of the best views in the region.
6. Kahuzi-Biega National Park: This national park is located a few hours from Uvira and is home to a number of endangered species, including the eastern lowland gorilla. The park offers hiking trails, guided tours, and opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
7. Lake Albert: Lake Albert is a large lake situated near Uvira. It's a popular spot for fishing and water sports, and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region.
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 Uvira.

When to go on holiday to Uvira

The best time to visit Uvira, Democratic Republic of the Congo is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with little to no rain, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Keep in mind that Uvira is located in a tropical climate, so temperatures remain high throughout the year, but humidity and rain increase during the wet season from October to May. It's also important to check current travel advisories and safety information before planning a trip to the area.

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

How to get to Uvira

The easiest way to get to Uvira in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is by flying into the nearest major city, which is Bukavu. From Bukavu, you can take a car or a boat to Uvira.
There are several airlines that operate flights to Bukavu, including Congo Airways and CAA. The flights depart from Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Once you arrive in Bukavu, you can take a private car, taxi, or motorbike to Uvira. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the condition of the roads.
Alternatively, you can take a boat from Bukavu to Uvira. The journey takes around 8 to 10 hours and offers stunning views of Lake Kivu. However, boat services may not be very reliable and can be affected by weather conditions. It is important to check the schedule and conditions of the boat service before starting the journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Uvira, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Uvira

Uvira is a city located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Here are some typical foods of Uvira: 1. Fufu - a starchy dish made from cassava, plantains, or yams. It is often served as a side dish or used to scoop up stews and sauces.
2. Isombe - a dish made from cassava leaves cooked with onions, garlic, and palm oil. It is often served with rice or fufu.
3. Chikwanga - a traditional Congolese bread made from cassava flour. It is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
4. Kitoza - a dish made from roasted cornmeal mixed with water to form a thick porridge. It's often eaten with fish or meat stews.
5. Mishikaki - marinated and grilled skewered meat, typically beef or goat. It is usually served with a spicy tomato and onion sauce.
6. Matoke - a dish made from steamed or boiled mashed plantains. It is often served with meat, fish, or vegetable stews.
7. Samosas - a popular street food, typically filled with spiced meat or vegetables. They are deep-fried and served with hot sauce.
8. Mwambe - a stew made from chicken or fish cooked in a coconut milk and peanut sauce. It is often served over rice or fufu. 9. Ugali - a dish made from maize flour and water. It is similar to fufu and often served as a staple with stews and sauces. I hope this helps you!
You can find general info about typical foods in Democratic Republic of the Congo here.

Is Uvira an expensive destination for tourists?

Uvira, a city located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists. The cost of travel and accommodation is generally higher in Uvira compared to other destinations in the Congo.
Travel expenses such as flights, transportation services, and tours can also add up to the costs of visiting Uvira. Furthermore, the lack of developed tourism infrastructure in the area means that prices for activities and amenities may be higher compared to other popular tourist destinations.
However, prices vary depending on the season and tourist demand. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning a trip to Uvira, and to also consider working with a reputable travel agency or tour operator that can help to keep costs under control.

Where to find accomodation in Uvira

The best areas to find accommodation in Uvira, DRC would be the city center, Lake Tanganyika waterfront area, or the neighborhoods around Kavimvira Airport. These areas provide easy access to the city's attractions and offer a variety of hotel accommodations for different budgets. However, it is important to note that Uvira is located in an area with ongoing security concerns, and it is recommended that travelers exercise caution and follow local safety guidelines while visiting the city.
You can check hotel prices at Uvira here:
Booking.com

Is Uvira a safe destination for tourists?

Uvira, like many cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has a history of violence and political instability. While there are efforts being made to improve safety and security, it is generally not considered a safe place for tourists at this time. The U.S. Department of State currently advises against all but essential travel to the DRC, including Uvira. It is recommended to research the current security situation and consult with a travel security expert before planning a trip to the area.
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 Uvira.

What type of travelers will enjoy Uvira the most?

Uvira in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is primarily known for its stunning natural beauty, and it's an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and cultural exploration. While it can be a great place for families with children, couples and young travelers who are looking for fun and adventure will also enjoy what Uvira has to offer. Some popular activities in Uvira include hiking in the nearby mountains, water sports on Lake Tanganyika, visits to local villages and markets, and experiencing the local cuisine and culture. Visitors can also take a boat tour or go fishing on the lake, or explore the surrounding national park areas. Whether you're interested in wildlife, history, or just enjoyed spending time outdoors, Uvira offers something for everyone and is definitely a destination worth considering. However, it is important to note that ongoing political unrest and safety concerns in the region may make travel more difficult and require extra precautions.

How to get around Uvira

The most common modes of transportation in Uvira, Democratic Republic of the Congo include public buses, taxis, and motorbikes. However, due to the poor road conditions, motorbikes are often the most practical option to move around the city and its surroundings. Private cars and rental vehicles are also available but can be expensive and require a good understanding of the local road conditions.

What to see around Uvira

Sure, here are some places to visit in a day trip from Uvira: 1. Kalemie: Located on the western shore of Lake Tanganyika, Kalemie is a scenic town with stunning beauty and numerous cultural attractions.
2. Kahuzi-Biega National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is home to rare Eastern Lowland Gorillas, the largest of all gorilla subspecies.
3. Lake Tanganyika: A beautiful freshwater lake that borders the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Zambia, and Burundi. You can go swimming, boating, or fishing here.
4. Mahale Mountains National Park: Another park that is home to chimpanzees and other primates. Trekking and bird watching opportunities are also available.
5. Gombe National Park: Famous for its population of chimpanzees, this park offers excellent hiking trails and scenic views.
These are just a few of the many places you can visit on a day trip from Uvira. Before visiting any of these places, make sure to research and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
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.