Africa > Democratic Republic of Congo: Weather, Map, Costs and Travel Guide

Kinshasa, the capital, is located on the banks of the Congo River, and this position gives it a special atmosphere and a lot of charm. You will discover the water hyacinths on the river while strolling on the Promenade de la Racquet. Then, climbing Mount Nglaliema, where the presidential residence and its park are located, you can see the zoo overlooking the city. Not to be missed, the four major markets that animate the city and participate in its dynamic rhythm.

East side, several sites are to visit from Kinsagani. This is a city on the Congo, modern and lively. You will observe the work of the wagenia fishermen who throw their traps in the rapids, as well as the floating villages where the lokele fishermen live. In this region, there are also several remarkable waterfalls, and it is in the Ituri forest that the last okapis survive.

 Another site, the border of Sudan, the park of Garamba with its white rhinoceros of the Nile, which are the last specimens.

In the region bordering Rwanda, you can admire Lake Kivu, where you can swim, but also discover the interesting sites of the north shore, such as the hot springs of Mai-ya-Moto and the falls of Rutshuru. There are also beautiful towns built on the lake and you can practice various water sports.

In the south of the country, you will discover Mount Hoyo, its waterfalls and caves, and a deep and extensive forest inhabited by the Bambutis. These are pygmies who live by hunting and are very attached to their traditions. In no way prevent travelers from receiving an excellent reception. The Ruwenzori Range, which rises more than 5,000 meters, offers stunning scenery of glaciers surrounded by small lakes, known as "Mountains of the Moon".

To the east you will not miss Virunga National Park or Kahuzi-Biega National Park, with their breathtaking wildlife: antelopes, warthogs, buffalos, lions, hippos and mountain gorillas, not forgetting the birds and the sublime landscapes where Stand out the 8 volcanoes of the chain, two of which are still active and whose climb can be undertaken.

A visa is required to enter the country.

The current currency is the Congolese Franc (CFD).

Transport: There are direct flights to Paris-Kinshasa, and you will land at Ndilili International Airport, about 20 km from the city center. To move around the country, the easiest way is to rent a car with a driver (preferably a 4WD if you drive out of town). Public transport is to be avoided. You can also use the inland airlines, but it is not advisable to take the train or the bus.

Health: Malaria is a significant risk, so you need to protect yourself effectively from mosquitoes. It is compulsory to be vaccinated against yellow fever, and it is recommended that conventional vaccines be added to those against typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and possibly rabies. Drink only bottled water, avoid ice cubes, peel your fruit and cook food well. Do not walk on wet soil and do not bathe in stagnant water.

Security: there is no security for the moment on the territory, even in the national parks, because of the civil war. Avoid going to this country without consulting the site of France Diplomatie.

Shopping: you will find many handicrafts to bring back markets of big cities, bracelets, traditional paintings, ebony statuettes, basketry, sculptures.