Democratic Republic of the Congo

Democratic Republic of the Congo: general info for travelers

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a country located in central Africa, bordered by nine other countries including Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia, Angola, Republic of Congo, and Central African Republic. It is the second-largest country in Africa by land area, and is known for its diverse geography including savannahs, rainforests, and mountain ranges. However, the country has been hampered by political instability, corruption, and armed conflicts, making it one of the poorest countries in the world despite its vast resources. Although the country has potential for tourism due to its natural beauty and wildlife, many areas are unsafe for travelers due to ongoing violence and instability.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Democratic Republic of the Congo, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: places to visit

Certainly, here are some of the main places to visit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: 1. Virunga National Park: This is one of the oldest national parks in Africa and home to some of the most outstanding wildlife and ecosystem diversity on the continent. Visitors can go gorilla trekking, climb active volcanoes, and go on boat tours of Lake Kivu.
2. Kinshasa: Kinshasa is the capital city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Visitors can see the monumental building of the Senate and the National Assembly, visit the Kinshasa Zoo and botanical gardens, and explore the vibrant markets.
3. Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary: This is a sanctuary for orphaned and rescued bonobos, one of humanity's closest relatives and also one of the most endangered apes on the planet.
4. Lubumbashi: Lubumbashi is the largest city in the province of Katanga and also an important commercial and industrial center. Visitors can go on guided tours to visit the historical copper mines, ancient rock paintings, and the art museums.
5. Garamba National Park: It is located in northeastern Congo near the border with South Sudan. This park is a sanctuary for elephants, giraffes, lions, and other wildlife.
6. Kahuzi-Biega National Park: This park is located in South Kivu province and is home to the gorilla population, specifically, the Eastern lowland gorillas, which is critically endangered.
These are some of the main places to visit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and each of them offers an exceptional experience to visitors.
There is more to see and do in Democratic Republic of the Congo: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Democratic Republic of the Congo, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
The climate in Democratic Republic of the Congo is generally tropical, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country has two major rainy seasons, one from March to May and the other from October to December, with April and November being the rainiest months. The best time to visit the Democratic Republic of the Congo would be during the dry season which lasts from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, perfect for gorilla trekking, visiting national parks, and exploring the many attractions that the country has to offer. However, it's worth noting that weather patterns can be unpredictable and vary depending on the location within the country. It's always best to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: activities and what to do

The Democratic Republic of the Congo offers a variety of activities and sports for travelers who enjoy adventure and outdoor activities. Here are some popular options: 1. Gorilla Trekking: The Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of the few places in the world where you can see mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat.
2. Mountaineering: With its numerous mountains and peaks, the Congo is a popular destination for mountaineers, especially those who love scaling challenging peaks.
3. Rafting and kayaking: For adrenaline junkies, rafting and kayaking in the Congo's many rivers and rapids are an excellent option. The Congo River itself offers an intense whitewater adventure.
4. Safari: Explore the Congo’s savannas and national parks in search of the "big five" African game animals, or discover its rich birdlife.
5. Cultural tours: The Congo is home to many indigenous tribes that offer visitors a chance to experience their cultures and traditions.
6. Hiking and trekking: Trails around the Congo offer visitors a chance to explore lush jungles, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views.
Overall, the Democratic Republic of Congo is a fantastic destination for travelers looking for adventure and the ultimate outdoor experience.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: few words on history and culture

The Democratic Republic of Congo has a rich history and culture. The country was inhabited by various Bantu tribes for centuries before European colonialization. The Kingdom of Kongo was founded in the 14th century and played a prominent role in regional trade and politics until it was disrupted by the arrival of Europeans in the 15th century.
During the colonial period, the country was known as the Belgian Congo and suffered greatly under King Leopold II's brutal exploitation, which led to the deaths of millions of Congolese people. In 1960, the country gained independence following a period of anti-colonial struggle.
The country is home to over 200 ethnic groups, each with their unique customs and traditions. Common cultural practices include music, dance, storytelling, and oral traditions. Religion also plays a significant role in the country, with Christianity and Islam being the most widely practiced followed by traditional African religions.
In terms of the arts, Congolese music is internationally renowned, particularly the soukous genre, which is characterized by electric guitars and fast-paced rhythms. Traditional art forms include sculpture, weaving, and pottery, which often reflect the country's rich history and cultural diversity.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: how to move around on holiday

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a large country, and transportation options vary depending on your destination within the country. If you plan to fly into the country, most travelers arrive at the Kinshasa N'Djili International Airport. This airport receives direct flights from various African and European destinations. Domestic flights are also available to other parts of the country.
For overland travel within the country, buses are available, but they can be slow and uncomfortable. Private taxis are also an option, but it is important to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
If you plan to travel on water, boats and ferries are available on some of the country's major rivers. These vessels provide access to remote areas with few roads, but comfort and safety can be an issue, so it is important to research the operator and vessel before booking.
Overall, the Democratic Republic of the Congo can be challenging to navigate, and it is important to research your options thoroughly before embarking on your trip. To hire a car to visit Democratic Republic of the Congo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Democratic Republic of the Congo: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Democratic Republic of the Congo with a full stomach:D
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country with a rich and diverse culinary tradition. Here are some of the main typical foods of DRC: 1. Fufu: Fufu is a starchy side dish that is made from cassava, plantains, or yams. It is usually served with a soup or stew.
2. Moambe chicken: This is a traditional Congolese dish made with chicken that is cooked in a rich, spicy sauce made with palm oil, tomatoes, and vegetables.
3. Kwanga: Kwanga is a type of fermented cassava that is often served with fish or meat dishes.
4. Pondu: Pondu is a stew made with cassava leaves and usually served with fish or meat. It has a slightly bitter taste and is highly nutritious.
5. Maboke: Maboke is a popular dish made with fish that is marinated in herbs, spices, and palm oil, then wrapped in banana leaves and grilled.
6. Liboke: Liboke is a similar dish to Maboke, but it is made with meat, chicken or vegetables.
7. Matembele: Matembele is a type of wild spinach that is often used in soups and stews.
8. Makayabu: Makayabu is a type of dried fish that is often used to flavor soups and stews.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious and unique dishes that can be found in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

The Democratic Republic of Congo can be an expensive country for tourists due to the cost of visas, transportation, accommodation, and activities. However, it can also depend on your travel style and the specific places you visit. For example, visiting the Virunga National Park to see gorillas can be quite costly, but exploring the cities or rural areas may be more affordable. It is important to plan your budget carefully and do your research to ensure that you make the most of your trip while staying within your budget.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: where to find accodation

The best places to look for accommodation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are in the major cities like Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Goma. There are plenty of hotels, guesthouses, and lodges available for tourists. Online travel websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor provide a list of the best accommodations in the area, including reviews and ratings from previous travelers. You can also contact local travel agencies and tour operators for recommendations and assistance in booking your accommodations. It is important to note that the accommodations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo vary in quality and price range, so make sure to do your research and book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.
You can check hotel prices in Democratic Republic of the Congo here:
Booking.com

Democratic Republic of the Congo: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is not a very popular tourist destination and receives a limited number of tourists annually. According to the World Bank, the country received around 374,000 visitors in 2018, which is a small number compared to other tourist destinations.
There are no crowded periods in the Democratic Republic of the Congo because tourism is not a major industry in the country. However, there may be some small temporary increases in tourism depending on events or festivals happening in certain regions.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is not considered a safe country for tourists due to its persistent political instability, crime and armed conflict in certain regions. The U.S Department of State has issued a travel advisory of Level 4 "Do Not Travel" for DRC due to crime, civil unrest, and Ebola. It is recommended to avoid traveling to the eastern and northeastern regions of the country, where there have been violent conflicts and rebel activity. In addition, the border areas with Rwanda and Uganda should be avoided due to conflict and instability. If you're planning a trip to DR Congo, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on the places you plan to visit, take necessary precautions, and keep updated with the latest security information from the local authorities. It is always recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator and make local contacts in areas you plan to visit.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Democratic Republic of the Congo on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: events for tourists

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has a diverse range of cultural events and natural wonders that may be of interest to tourists. Some of the most exciting events include: 1. Festival Amani: This is an annual music and arts festival hosted in the city of Goma. It features a variety of Congolese and international artists performing music, dance, and spoken word.
2. Fête de la Mangue: This is an annual celebration of mangoes held in Kisangani. It includes a variety of events, such as a mango-eating contest and a parade featuring floats made out of mangoes.
3. Virunga National Park: This park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including mountain gorillas and endangered chimpanzees. Visitors can take guided tours of the park to see these animals up close.
4. Livingstone Falls: These falls are located along the Congo River and offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Garamba National Park: This park is known for its large concentration of elephants, as well as other wildlife such as giraffes and buffalo.
6. Congo River: This river is the second longest in Africa and offers boat tours with views of the wildlife and stunning landscapes along the way.
7. Bas-Congo Cultural Festival: This annual festival in Matadi celebrates the local culture with traditional dances, music and theatre performances as well as showcasing local cuisine. These are just a few of the many exciting events and attractions that the Democratic Republic of the Congo has to offer.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Democratic Republic of the Congo, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
If you are a typical tourist in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, here is a recommended two-week itinerary: Day 1-2: Kinshasa Visit the capital city of Kinshasa for two days. Take a tour of the city, explore the markets, visit the Bonobo sanctuary, and see the colonial architecture.
Day 3-4: Matadi Travel to Matadi, a small town in the west of the country. Visit the Rock of Diogo Cão, a cliff that offers views of the Congo River.
Day 5-6: Lubumbashi Fly to Lubumbashi, the second-largest city in the country. Explore the city's museums, including the Lubumbashi National Museum and the Lubumbashi Zoo.
Day 7-8: Lake Tanganyika Take a boat ride on Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-deepest lake. Check out the beaches, soak up some sun, and go on a fishing tour.
Day 9-10: Kahuzi-Biega National Park Visit Kahuzi-Biega National Park, where you can see endangered eastern lowland gorillas in the wild. You'll also have a chance to see forest elephants, colobus monkeys, and other wildlife.
Day 11-12: Virunga National Park Travel to Virunga National Park, home to over 200 mountain gorillas, as well as chimpanzees and other primates. Go on a guided trek to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat.
Day 13-14: Goma Finish your trip in Goma, a city on the edge of Lake Kivu. Take a boat ride on the lake, hike to the Nyiragongo volcano, or visit the Goma Volcano Observatory.
Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized based on your interests and travel style. It's essential to check the current safety situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo before planning any trip.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Democratic Republic of the Congo described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aketi is a small town located in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital of the Bas-Uele Province and serves as a hub for trade and transportation in the regio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aketi
- Bafwasende is a town located in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is situated in the province of Haut-Uele, near the border with South Sudan and Uganda. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bafwasende
- Basankusu is a town located in the northern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated on the Congo River, and is the capital of the remote Mai-Ndombe province. The town has a popula... CONTINUE here for a trip to Basankusu
- Beni is a city located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated approximately 220 km north of the provincial capital, Goma, and has a population of over 230,000 pe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beni
- Boma is a port town located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on the banks of the Congo River. It is the capital of the Kongo Central province and has a population of approximately 600,000 peop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boma
- Bukavu is a city located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, adjacent to Lake Kivu. It is the capital of the South Kivu province and has a population of approximately 1.2 mill... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bukavu
- Bumba is a city located in the northwestern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically in the province of Mongala. It is situated on the east bank of the Congo River and is a major transpo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bumba
- Bunia is a city in the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is located in the northeastern part of the country and is the capital of the Ituri province. Bunia has a population of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bunia
- Businga is a small town located in the northwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated in the province of Sud-Ubangi, near the border with the Central African Republic. The t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Businga
- Buta is a town located in the northern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It serves as the capital of the Bas-Uele province and has a population of about 60,000 people. The town is situated... CONTINUE here for a trip to Buta
- Butembo is a city located in the North Kivu province of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has an estimated population of around 670,000 people and is the economic hub of the region. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Butembo
- Gbadolite is a town located in the northwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It was formerly the hometown of the late dictator Mobutu Sese Seko and was once known as "the Versailles o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gbadolite
- Gemena is a city located in the northwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated on the eastern banks of the Ubangi River near the border with the Central African Republic. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gemena
- Goma is a city located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, near the border with Rwanda. It is situated on the shore of Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes. The city has a p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Goma
- Ingende is a town located in the northern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Congo River, and is the capital of the Ingende territory in the provin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ingende
- Isiro is a city located in the north-eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital of Haut-Uele province and has a population of approximately 130,000 people. The city is sit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isiro
- Kalemie is a town located in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital of Tanganyika Province and is situated on the western shore of Lake Tanganyika. Kalemie ha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalemie
- 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 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalima
- Kananga is a city located in the Kasai-Central province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has a population of approximately 1.2 million people. The city serves as a regional center for trade... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kananga
- Kasangulu is a town located in the province of Kongo Central in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated about 100 kilometers west of Kinshasa, the capital city of the country. Kasangulu i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kasangulu
- Kasongo is a town located in the Maniema province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated on the banks of the Lualaba River and is known for its diverse array of natural resources, inc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kasongo
- Kenge is a city located in the Kwango Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the capital of the Kwango Province and it has an estimated population of around 41,000 people. Kenge is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kenge
- Kindu is a city located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital of the Maniema province and is situated on the Lualaba River. The city has a population of approx... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kindu
- Kinshasa is the capital and largest city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, located in the central-western part of the country along the Congo River. With a population of over 15 million people,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kinshasa
- Kipushi is a town situated in the Haut-Katanga province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is located near the border with Zambia, about 30 km south of Lubumbashi, the provincial capital. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kipushi
- 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... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kisangani
- Kolwezi is a city in the Lualaba province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It's located in the southeastern part of the country, near the border with Zambia. The city is known for its copper and c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kolwezi
- Likasi is a city in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is located in the Haut-Katanga province and is roughly 200 kilometers southeast of Lubumbashi, the provincial capi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Likasi
- Lubumbashi is a city located in the southern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the second-largest city in the country and is the capital of the Haut-Katanga Province. The city is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lubumbashi
- Manono is a town located in the Tanganyika Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated on the western shore of Lake Tanganyika and is the center of the Manono Territory. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Manono
- Matadi is a major port city in the southwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is located near the Congo River, and serves as a gateway to the country's interior as well as nearby co... CONTINUE here for a trip to Matadi
- Mbandaka is a city located in the northwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital of Equateur Province and sits on the banks of the Congo River. The population of Mbandaka... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mbandaka
- Mbanza-Ngungu is a town located in the southwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, roughly 150 kilometers from the capital city of Kinshasa. The town is situated in the Bas-Congo provin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mbanza-Ngungu
- 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 diam... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mbuji-Mayi
- Mwene-Ditu is a city located in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the capital of the province of Lomami and has a population of approximately 150,000 people. The cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mwene-Ditu
- Mwenga is a town located in the South Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is situated in the eastern part of the country, near the border with Burundi. The area is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mwenga
- Mweso is a town located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically in the North Kivu province. The town is situated at an altitude of about 1,982 meters and has a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mweso
- Tshikapa is a city located in the western region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, specifically in the province of Kasai. It is situated on the Kasai River and has a population of approximately... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tshikapa
- 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 dive... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uvira


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: