ISO: CD
Note: It is not advised to travel here for safety concerns
The Democratic Republic of the Congo, often referred to as Congo-Kinshasa, is a vast and diverse country in Central Africa known for its dense rainforests, iconic wildlife, and tumultuous history. The capital, Kinshasa, is a vibrant city along the Congo River, where music, dance, and culture thrive. Explore the lively neighborhoods, visit the National Museum, and enjoy Congolese music performances.
Congo’s natural beauty shines through its national parks, including Virunga National Park, home to mountain gorillas, and Garamba National Park, known for its elephants and rhinos. The country’s landscapes feature the stunning Congo River and the cascading waterfalls of Boyoma Falls. Congolese cuisine features dishes like fufu (cassava dough) and maboke (grilled fish). Despite its challenges, the resilience and warmth of the Congolese people make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural experiences.
Cities in Congo (Democratic Republic of the)
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Travel Risk Levels Congo (Democratic Republic of the)
Overall Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
DR Congo offers breathtaking landscapes from jungles to the mighty Congo River, but it also grapples with political instability and pockets of conflict, especially in the eastern regions.
Transport and Taxi Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
Medium
While cities like Kinshasa offer taxi services, it's advisable to use reputable companies and avoid night travels. Road conditions vary, and many roads become impassable during the rainy season.
Pickpocket Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
Medium
Busy markets like Marché Central in Kinshasa are vibrant but be vigilant as pickpocketing incidents, especially targeting foreigners, are not uncommon.
Physical Crime Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
The Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Congo-Kinshasa, has regions with ongoing conflicts and significant security concerns. Violent crimes, including kidnappings, can occur. Travelers should remain highly alert, avoid travel to certain areas, and stay informed about local situations.
Natural Disaster Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
The country is prone to natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions near Goma, with Mount Nyiragongo being active. Flooding can also occur during heavy rains.
Terrorism Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
Various armed groups operate, especially in the east (North Kivu, South Kivu). These groups can pose security threats including kidnappings and ambushes.
Scams Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
Medium
Travelers should be wary of unofficial 'fees' or 'taxes' imposed at checkpoints or borders. There are also reports of fake tour guides offering services.
Women Travelers Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
Women travelers should exercise caution, particularly in isolated areas. There have been reports of gender-based violence especially in conflict zones.
Tap Water Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
It's advisable to avoid tap water and instead opt for bottled or boiled water. Cases of cholera and other waterborne diseases have been reported.
Public Behavior Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
Medium
DR Congo has diverse ethnic groups and cultures. While locals are generally hospitable, it's important to respect local customs and avoid political discussions.
LGBTQ Acceptance Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
Homosexuality is not widely accepted, and there is no legal protection against discrimination. Discretion is strongly advised for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Police and Officials Corruption Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
Corruption is pervasive, and encounters with officials seeking bribes are not uncommon. Always ensure you have proper documentation when traveling.
Business Risk Congo (Democratic Republic of the):
High
The business environment can be challenging due to bureaucracy, corruption, and infrastructure issues. However, sectors like mining offer lucrative opportunities, emphasizing the need for thorough local knowledge and due diligence.
An example of something bad that can happen travelling to Congo (Democratic Republic of the)
A Lost Passport in Kinshasa
Elaine had always been an adventurer at heart, and her travels had taken her to the bustling city of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Vibrant markets, the energetic pulse of the city, and the welcoming locals had made her trip memorable. But, as every seasoned traveler knows, adventures can sometimes come with unexpected challenges.
After a day of exploring, Elaine returned to her hostel only to find her backpack missing from the common area. The sinking realization hit: her passport, among other valuables, was in that bag. Panic set in. In a foreign land, the loss of a passport can be a traveler's worst nightmare.
Elaine reported the theft to the local police and was directed to her country's embassy in Kinshasa. Navigating the intricate web of bureaucracy, she began the process of obtaining an emergency travel document. During her extended stay, she connected with other travelers and locals who offered support, guidance, and even a place to stay.
While the ordeal was stressful, Elaine's misadventure turned into an opportunity to experience the warmth and generosity of the Congolese community. Her story serves as a reminder that even in challenging circumstances, human connection can turn a dire situation into a memorable journey.
Safe Places
Be advised this list does not advise the cities/towns are safe for all tourists, safety is still relative to the country itself.
What are the safest places to visit in Congo DR?
Note: It is not advised to travel here for safety concerns
- Kinshasa: The capital features the Ma Vallee lake, Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary, and vibrant nightlife.
- Goma: Located on the northern shore of Lake Kivu, it’s a gateway to Virunga National Park.
(Note: Congo DR can have varying safety conditions. Always check recent travel advisories.)
Travel Tips
Useful Tips When Travelling in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Currency: The official currency is the Congolese Franc (CDF). It's recommended to have a mix of US dollars (in good condition) and local currency for smaller transactions. Few places accept credit cards.
Language: The official language is French. Four indigenous languages – Lingala, Kikongo, Tshiluba, and Swahili – are also widely spoken. Basic French phrases can be very useful during your stay.
Historical Sites: The Ruins of Empires in Goma and the statues in Lubumbashi offer glimpses into the country's colonial past. Also, the Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary provides a unique look at bonobo conservation.
Visas: Most visitors require a visa to enter the DRC. It's crucial to check the visa requirements before traveling, as obtaining one can sometimes be a lengthy process.
Local Etiquette: Respect and politeness are highly valued. Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas. Photography can be sensitive; always ask for permission before taking pictures, especially of military or government buildings.
Top Attractions: Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gorillas. Other attractions include Mount Nyiragongo, Lake Kivu, and Okapi Wildlife Reserve.
Connectivity: Internet access is improving in urban areas with several internet cafes. Mobile coverage is relatively good in cities but can be patchy elsewhere. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more reliable connectivity.
Weather
Annual weather in Kinshasa, Congo (Democratic Republic of the)
Congo (Democratic Republic of the) has a diverse climate, with tropical weather in the lowlands and temperate weather in the highlands. The average temperature in the Congo (Democratic Republic of the) ranges from 25°C (77°F) in the lowlands to 10°C (50°F) in the highlands. The wettest months vary depending on the region, but in general, the wettest months are April to June and October to December. The weather in the Congo (Democratic Republic of the) can feel hot and humid in the lowlands and cool and crisp in the highlands. It is important to pack for all types of weather when visiting the Congo (Democratic Republic of the).
| Month |
Avg Temp (°C) |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Avg Rain (mm) |
| January |
25.8 |
78.4 |
163 |
| February |
26.0 |
78.8 |
147 |
| March |
26.5 |
79.7 |
221 |
| April |
26.6 |
79.9 |
238 |
| May |
26.3 |
79.3 |
128 |
| June |
24.7 |
76.5 |
6 |
| July |
24.0 |
75.2 |
3 |
| August |
24.8 |
76.6 |
3 |
| September |
25.8 |
78.4 |
49 |
| October |
26.2 |
79.2 |
119 |
| November |
26.0 |
78.8 |
247 |
| December |
25.7 |
78.3 |
185 |
