Democratic Republic of Congo 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa

Morning

  • Arrive at N’Djili International Airport (FIH) in Kinshasa, the capital city of Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Obtain your visa upon arrival (if required; see Visa Requirements section)
  • Transfer to your hotel and freshen up

Afternoon

  • Visit the Grand Hotel du Congo, a historic hotel that has hosted famous guests like Muhammad Ali and James Brown
  • Explore the nearby Kinshasa Central Market, a bustling marketplace where you can find local handicrafts, food, and souvenirs

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of Kinshasa’s popular restaurants, such as Le Relais or L’Auberge
  • Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife by visiting a local bar or club

Things to Know

  • Kinshasa is a massive city with over 12 million inhabitants, so be prepared for traffic and crowds
  • French is the official language, but many locals also speak Lingala and Kikongo
  • The Congolese franc (CDF) is the local currency, although USD is widely accepted

Day 2: Kinshasa

Morning

  • Visit the National Museum of Congo, which showcases the country’s history, art, and culture
  • Stop by the Presidential Palace, a grand building that serves as the official residence of the President of DRC

Afternoon

  • Explore the Kinshasa Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • Take a stroll along the Congo River, which offers stunning views and opportunities to see local fishermen at work

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Congolese cuisine, such as poulet à la moambé (chicken with peanut sauce) or makayabu (grilled fish)
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife further

Day 3: Kisangani

Morning

  • Fly to Kisangani, a city located in the northeastern part of DRC (approximately 1.5 hours)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Boyoma Falls, a breathtaking series of seven cataracts on the Congo River
  • Take a boat tour to see the falls up close and spot local wildlife, such as monkeys and birds

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Le Tropicana or La Brasserie
  • Relax at your hotel or explore Kisangani’s laid-back atmosphere

Day 4: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring Kisangani’s markets
  • Fly back to Kinshasa (approximately 1.5 hours) and connect to your international flight

Transportation

  • Flights: Book flights in advance through airlines such as Congo Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, or Turkish Airlines
  • Taxis and buses are available for local transportation; however, be prepared for chaotic traffic conditions
  • Private car services can also be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of certain countries may require a visa to enter DRC; check with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s embassy or consulate in your country of residence
  • Visas upon arrival are available for some nationalities, but it’s recommended to obtain one in advance to avoid delays

Safety and Health

  • The Democratic Republic of Congo is generally considered safe for tourists, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about vaccinations and medication required for travel to DRC
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen to protect against the sun and mosquitoes