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View of a volcano in the Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Things to do in  Democratic Republic of Congo

A country of contradictions

Some joke that the Democratic Republic of the Congo (the largest country in Africa, after Algeria) is a continent-pays—a country that acts more like a continent. Home to over 200 spoken languages, thick jungles and volcanic summits, Indigenous groups, and urbanites, there’s no way to sum up this nation of 105 million people that doesn’t sound like an oversimplification. Unsurprisingly, foreign visitors will find plenty of things to do in the DRC. While unrest has plagued the east in recent years, other swathes of this massive country remain safe and welcoming.

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Time Zone
CAT (+2)
When to visit

Climates vary considerably, so when to visit depends on where you’re headed. Generally speaking, you’ll want to aim for one of two dry seasons. The longer one lasts from May or June until September, while many parts of the DRC, including Kinshasa, experience a shorter dry-weather window from December to February. Rain may still hit, but on the whole, you’ll experience less precipitation then—which means fewer flooded-out roads or other travel delays.

Getting around

Considering the vast distances and the poor state of many roads outside major cities, most travelers opt to get around by domestic flight: A handful of carriers operate short flights around the country. While the DRC has only a narrow coastline, it boasts stunning rivers and lakes, and getting around by ferry or speedboat is an exciting thrill—destinations include Lake Tanganyika (shared with Tanzania), the Congo River, and Lake Kivu on the Rwandan border.

Traveler tips

Do your homework and reduce risks to stay safe. Check the latest travel advisories, as the security situation—particularly within the conflict-plagued North and South Kivu provinces, where armed rebel groups are active and populations are frequently displaced—is likely to change quickly. Drink boiled or bottled water, bring a reliable insect repellent, and consider taking anti-malarial medication; you’ll also want to make sure that your vaccinations are up to date.

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People Also Ask
Q:Is visiting the Democratic Republic of Congo worth it?
A:

In a word, yes. While such an off-the-beaten-track destination might not be to everyone’s liking, there’s little doubt that a trip here will not soon be forgotten. We are talking about one of the most culturally vibrant and biodiverse countries in Africa, after all, and that’s a high bar for comparison.

Q:Can you visit the Democratic Republic of Congo on your own?
A:

Yes, although it is recommended that first-time visitors travel with a reputable tour operator. While many parts of the country are safe, it takes local know-how to get around and understand the cultural and historical significance of what you’re seeing. Hotels can also be expensive for solo travelers.

Q:How long should I spend in the Democratic Republic of Congo?
A:

That depends. If you’re just visiting Kinshasa, then anywhere from four days to a week will be enough to see the main sights and go on a day trip or two. Those planning to explore national parks like Virunga or participate in a community-led project should count on several weeks or a month.

Q:What languages do they speak in the Democratic Republic of Congo?
A:

While French is the official language in the DRC and is used within cities, don’t expect to encounter many French speakers within rural areas. Spoken languages vary considerably by region. In Kinshasa, it’s mainly Lingala, while in the eastern DRC, people commonly speak Swahili. In the south, you'll hear Tshiluba or Bemba.

Q:What should I eat in the Democratic Republic of Congo?
A:

Eat anything you can get your hands on. The rich and varied food scene is one of the many delights of visiting the DRC. Staple meals include carbohydrates like fufu, plantains, or rice alongside meat or fish. Other dishes range from fragrant stews to banana fritters and spicy meat kebabs.

Q:Can I visit the Democratic Republic of Congo on a guided tour?
A:

Yes. In fact, guided tours are a great way for travelers to stay safe while visiting and better understand the country’s tangled—and often tragic—history as a former Belgian colony. Many focus on gorilla trekking in the lush east, while others concentrate on the DRC’s vibrant arts scene.

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