Democratic Republic of Congo 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Travelling in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa

  • Arrive at N’djili International Airport (FIH) in Kinshasa, the capital city of DRC
  • Obtain your visa upon arrival (more information below)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the Grand Hotel du Congo for a stunning view of the Congo River
  • Explore the nearby markets for a taste of local culture

Things to Know:

  • Kinshasa is a bustling city with a population of over 12 million people
  • Be prepared for traffic congestion and occasional power outages
  • French, Lingala, Kiswahili, and Kikongo are the main languages spoken in DRC; English is not widely spoken

Day 2: Kinshasa

  • Visit the Congo River, one of the longest rivers in Africa
  • Explore the Kinshasa National Museum to learn about Congolese history and culture
  • Stop by the Cathedral du Sacré-Cœur, a beautiful Catholic church built in the early 20th century
  • Enjoy local cuisine for lunch, such as poulet à la moambé (chicken with peanut sauce) or makayabu (grilled fish)
  • Visit the Kinshasa Central Market for a vibrant shopping experience

Day 3: Kisangani

  • Fly to Kisangani, a city located in the northeastern part of DRC (approximately 1-hour flight)
  • Visit the Tshopo River and explore its tranquil surroundings
  • Stop by the Kisangani Cathedral, a stunning example of colonial architecture
  • Enjoy water sports or take a boat ride on the river

Things to Know:

  • Kisangani is a smaller city with limited infrastructure; be prepared for basic accommodations and amenities
  • The city is surrounded by lush tropical forests and offers opportunities for outdoor activities

Day 4: Garamba National Park

  • Drive to Garamba National Park (approximately 3-hour drive), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth
  • Go on a guided safari tour to spot endangered species, such as the northern white rhinoceros and the Congo peafowl
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park’s stunning scenery

Things to Know:

  • Garamba National Park is located in a remote area; be prepared for rugged terrain and limited amenities
  • The park is home to many endangered species, so respect the environment and follow your guide’s instructions

Day 5: Bukavu

  • Fly to Bukavu (approximately 1-hour flight), a city located on the shores of Lake Kivu
  • Visit the beautiful beaches of Lake Kivu, such as Plage Tembo or Plage des Pirates
  • Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery

Things to Know:

  • Bukavu is a popular tourist destination with many amenities and activities available
  • Be prepared for cooler temperatures in the evenings due to the high altitude

Day 6: Departure from Bukavu

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring the local markets
  • Depart from Kavumu Airport (BKY) for your onward journey

Visa Requirements:

  • A visa is required for most nationalities; it can be obtained upon arrival at N’djili International Airport
  • The cost of a visa is approximately $100-$150, depending on the duration of stay
  • Ensure you have at least six months’ validity on your passport and two blank pages

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights are available between major cities; book in advance to ensure availability
  • Road travel can be challenging due to poor infrastructure; consider hiring a driver or guide
  • Taxis and motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas) are widely available, but negotiate prices before embarking on your journey

Other Things of Interest:

  • The DRC is home to many active volcanoes, including Mount Nyiragongo near Goma
  • The country has a rich cultural heritage, with over 450 ethnic groups and more than 700 languages spoken
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages and limited internet connectivity

Remember to stay informed about local conditions, respect the environment and culture, and enjoy your trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo!