Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Guide

Discover Why You Should Visit the DR Congo

Why Visit the DR Congo?

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is one of Africa’s most untamed and breathtaking destinations, rich in rainforests, wildlife, and unique cultures.

With opportunities to trek to see mountain gorillas, climb active volcanoes, and explore powerful rivers and waterfalls, it is a paradise for adventurous travelers and eco-tourists.

Ideal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, adventure travelers, off-the-beaten-path explorers, and nature photographers.

Must-Know Facts

Capital/Major City: Kinshasa

Language(s): French (official), Lingala, Swahili, Kikongo, Tshiluba

Currency: Congolese Franc (CDF)

Best Time to Visit: June to September (dry season)

Fun Fact: The Congo River is the deepest river in the world and the second largest in Africa.

Top Things to Do

Trek to see mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park

Climb Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano with a lava lake

Cruise or kayak on the Congo River

Explore Garamba National Park and its rare species

Visit Zongo Falls for a scenic natural retreat

Local Culture & Lifestyle

DRC is a mix of over 200 ethnic groups, each with its own language and traditions.

Music and dance are central to Congolese life, especially soukous and rumba.

Family and community ties are strong, and art, storytelling, and spirituality are integral to everyday life.

Food & Drink Highlights

Street Food: Chikwangue (cassava bread), grilled goat meat, fried plantains

Restaurants: La Piscine (Kinshasa), Chez Tintin, Le Roi du Cossa

Drinks: Palm wine, local beer (Primus), ginger juice

Desserts: Beignets (fried dough balls), fruit platters

Main Dish & Culinary Symbols

Signature Dish: Moambe Chicken (chicken cooked in a rich peanut and palm butter sauce)

Common Ingredients: Cassava, maize, plantains, peanuts, fish, beans

Culinary Culture: Meals are often shared from a communal bowl, with a staple starch like fufu or rice.

Symbols & Icons of the Area

Natural Icons: Congo River, Mount Nyiragongo, tropical rainforests

Cultural Icons: Kuba textiles, wooden masks, vibrant music traditions

Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path

Idjwi Island on Lake Kivu, known for peace and self-sufficiency

Kahuzi-Biega National Park for lowland gorilla trekking

Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary near Kinshasa for orphaned bonobos

Shopping & Souvenirs

What to Buy: Hand-carved masks, tribal drums, woven baskets, paintings

Where to Shop: Kinshasa artisan markets, local cooperatives, street vendors in Bukavu and Goma

Getting Around

Public Transport: Limited; informal taxis and motorbikes are common

Car Rentals: Necessary for long-distance travel; 4WD recommended

Tip: Domestic flights are often the fastest and safest option between regions

Walkability: Moderate in urban areas; less so in rural regions

Travel Tips

Travel with a guide, especially outside major cities

Vaccinations including yellow fever are required

Respect local customs and always ask before photographing people

Carry cash, as card usage is limited in most areas

Where to Stay

Budget: Hotel Pour Vous (Kinshasa), local guesthouses in Goma

Mid-range: Memling Hotel (Kinshasa), Hotel Horizon (Bukavu)

Luxury: Pullman Grand Hotel (Kinshasa), Mikeno Lodge (Virunga National Park)

Unique: Tented safari lodges or community-run eco-lodges in national parks

Sample 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Goma, relax and explore local markets

Day 2: Trek to Nyiragongo Volcano and overnight at the summit camp

Day 3: Gorilla trek in Virunga National Park or visit Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary

Day 4: Return to Kinshasa or take a nature tour near Lake Kivu

Book With Region Waze Travel

Let Region Waze Travel help you experience the wild beauty of the DR Congo. From gorilla treks to river journeys. Book today to begin your immersive DR Congo adventures