Democratic Republic of Congo-7-day-itinerary

7-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
  • Transfer to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the Grand Hotel du Congo for a stunning view of the Congo River
  • Explore the local markets, such as the Marché Central or Marché de la Liberté

Day 2: Kinshasa

  • Visit the National Museum of the Democratic Republic of Congo to learn about the country’s history and culture
  • Take a stroll along the Boulevard du 30 Juin, a scenic waterfront promenade
  • Explore the Kalamu neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and street food
  • Try some local cuisine, such as poulet à la moambé (chicken in peanut sauce) or makayabu (grilled fish)

Day 3: Kisangani

  • Fly to Kisangani, a city located in the northeastern part of DRC (approximately 1.5 hours)
  • Visit the Tshopo Falls, a breathtaking waterfall on the Congo River
  • Explore the Kisangani Market, where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs

Day 4: Garamba National Park

  • Take a morning flight to Garamba National Park (approximately 1 hour)
  • Go on a guided safari tour to spot some of the park’s iconic wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park

Day 5: Bunia

  • Fly to Bunia, a city located in the northeastern part of DRC (approximately 1 hour)
  • Visit the Bunia Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic church built in the 1950s
  • Explore the local markets and try some street food

Day 6: Lake Kivu

  • Drive to Lake Kivu, a stunning lake located on the border with Rwanda (approximately 4 hours)
  • Take a boat tour of the lake and enjoy the scenic views
  • Relax at one of the many beach resorts in the area

Day 7: Departure from Goma

  • Drive back to Goma, a city located on the shores of Lake Kivu (approximately 2 hours)
  • Fly out of Goma International Airport (GOM) or continue your journey by land

Things to Know

  • The DRC is a vast country with limited infrastructure, so be prepared for long journeys and occasional delays
  • French is the official language, but many people also speak Lingala, Kiswahili, and Kikongo
  • The local currency is the Congolese franc (CDF), although USD is widely accepted
  • Malaria and other diseases are prevalent in the DRC, so take necessary precautions and consult your doctor before traveling

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of certain countries may need a visa to enter the DRC, which can be obtained at the embassy or consulate of the DRC in their home country
  • A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is required for all travelers
  • A yellow fever vaccination certificate may also be required

Transportation

  • Domestic flights are available between major cities, such as Kinshasa, Kisangani, and Goma
  • Road travel can be slow and uncomfortable due to the poor state of roads
  • Boats are a common mode of transportation on the Congo River and other lakes

Safety

  • The DRC has experienced periods of instability and conflict in recent years, so it’s essential to stay informed about local conditions and take necessary precautions
  • Avoid traveling at night and keep valuables secure
  • Register with your government’s travel advisory department before embarking on your journey