Country guides
Africa
Things to do in Democratic Republic of the Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo isn't a typical holiday destination, but its natural beauty continues to attract travellers looking for unique and adventurous experiences. Indeed, the country has great potential as a tourist spot, thanks to its vast rainforests, active volcanoes, the Congo River, Lake Kivu, and diverse wildlife, including the rare mountain gorillas.
Many visitors fly into Kinshasa to enjoy the city's culture and explore the Congo River area, or head to Goma near the Rwandan border, which is a gateway to Lake Kivu, Mount Nyiragongo, and Virunga National Park.
As some parts of the country can be difficult to reach and travel can be challenging, most visitors arrange trips through tour operators. There are hopeful signs that the country will become more accessible and welcoming to tourists in the future.
Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park was established in 1925 as Africa's first national park and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It stretches from the Virunga Mountains in the s…
Virunga National Park
Virunga National Park was established in 1925 as Africa's first national park and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It stretches from the Virunga Mountains in the south to the Rwenzori Mountains in the north, encompassing around 7,800 km². Its wide range of altitudes supports an extraordinary mix of habitats, from rainforest and volcanic plains to alpine meadows, making it one of the continent's most biodiverse protected areas. More than 218 mammal species (including 22 primates), 706 bird species, 109 reptiles, and 78 amphibians inhabit the park. The main attraction is the mountain gorilla population in the southern rainforest. Thanks to conservation efforts, their numbers are showing signs of gradual recovery, offering hope for this critically endangered species.
Kinshasa
Kinshasa, home to about 17 to 18 million people, serves as a bustling gateway to the mighty Congo River. While the city contrasts affluent districts with informal settlements, curi…
Kinshasa
Kinshasa, home to about 17 to 18 million people, serves as a bustling gateway to the mighty Congo River. While the city contrasts affluent districts with informal settlements, curious and independent travellers often find the cultural energy rewarding. The lively Matonge neighbourhood offers music, nightlife, and local cuisine.
A short drive, around 30 kilometres from Kinshasa, brings travellers to Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary, the only place in the world dedicated to orphaned bonobos. Visitors can take guided tours through the semi-wild forest enclosures and observe these endangered great apes. On the river, they can embark on scenic boat rides or view local rapids. Though Kinshasa itself has limited wildlife experiences, it provides an intriguing introduction to Congo's natural and cultural landscape.
Mount Nyiragongo
Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano in the Virunga National Park, about 12 miles (20km) north of Goma. The main crater contains a boiling lava lake that is one of the Congo's mos…
Mount Nyiragongo
Mount Nyiragongo is an active volcano in the Virunga National Park, about 12 miles (20km) north of Goma. The main crater contains a boiling lava lake that is one of the Congo's most mesmerising attractions. The hike up Mount Nyiragongo begins in Goma and is guided by armed park rangers, with porters to carry provisions. Most people prefer to stay overnight on the mountain, in the newly built cabins just beyond the crater rim. Staying overnight allows visitors to see the dramatic red glow of the lava in the darkness, which is a magical experience. Visitors should remember that Nyiragongo is an extremely dangerous volcano.
Goma and Lake Kivu
Situated on the northern shore of Lake Kivu, close to the Rwandan border, the eastern city of Goma is not particularly safe or prosperous, but does offer some dramatic landscapes. …
Goma and Lake Kivu
Situated on the northern shore of Lake Kivu, close to the Rwandan border, the eastern city of Goma is not particularly safe or prosperous, but does offer some dramatic landscapes. Nature lovers who visit the destination will find themselves on the doorstep of the active Nyiragongo Volcano and the Virunga National Park, which is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The city is also close to Lake Kivu, where there are some lovely beaches and plenty of lakeside accommodation, particularly near Gisenyi. Sailing and fishing on Lake Kivu are priceless experiences.