Democratic Republic of Congo 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa

  • Arrival: Arrive at N’Djili International Airport (FIH) in Kinshasa, the capital city of Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • Visa Requirements: Make sure you have a valid visa for DRC. You can obtain one upon arrival or apply online beforehand.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up. Recommended hotels include Hotel Pullman Kinshasa, Hotel Royal, and Hotel du Centre.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Grand Hotel du Congo, a historic hotel that offers stunning views of the Congo River. Take a stroll along the riverfront promenade.
  • Evening: Head to the Kalamu neighborhood for dinner and drinks at one of the many restaurants and bars.

Day 2: Kinshasa

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum, which showcases the country’s history and culture.
  • Lunch: Try some local cuisine like poulet à la moambé (chicken in peanut sauce) or makayabu (fried fish).
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant markets of Kinshasa, such as the Marché Central or Marché de la Liberté. Be prepared to haggle!
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Congolese music and dance at a local nightclub.

Day 3: Kisangani

  • Morning: Fly from Kinshasa to Kisangani (approximately 1-hour flight).
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tshopo River, which offers stunning views and opportunities for boat cruises.
  • Evening: Explore the local markets and try some street food.

Day 4: Garamba National Park

  • Morning: Drive from Kisangani to Garamba National Park (approximately 3-hour drive).
  • Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the park, which is home to endangered species like the northern white rhinoceros and the Congo peafowl.
  • Evening: Return to Kisangani for dinner and relaxation.

Day 5: Departure from Kinshasa

  • Morning: Fly back from Kisangani to Kinshasa (approximately 1-hour flight).
  • Afternoon: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Evening: Depart from N’Djili International Airport.

Transportation

  • Flights: Domestic flights are available between Kinshasa and Kisangani.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to negotiate prices beforehand.
  • Private Transportation: Private cars and drivers can be hired for the day.

Things to Know

  • Language: French is the official language, but many Congolese speak Lingala or Kiswahili. English may not be widely spoken.
  • Currency: The Congolese franc (CDF) is the local currency. US dollars and euros are also accepted in some places.
  • Safety: DRC can be a challenging destination due to infrastructure limitations and security concerns. Stay informed, exercise caution, and consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group.
  • Health: Consult your doctor regarding vaccinations and medications for travel to DRC.

Other Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering homes or mosques, and use your right hand when eating or giving/receiving objects.
  • Bargain: Haggling is expected at markets, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled water throughout the day.

Remember to stay flexible, patient, and open-minded during your travels in DRC. Enjoy your journey!