The Democratic Republic of Congo, formerly known as Zaire, is a landlocked country located in Central Africa.
It is the second-largest country on the continent, bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi to the east; the Central African Republic to the north; Zambia to the southeast; and Angola to the southwest.
Despite being close to the Atlantic Ocean, the country is primarily landlocked. D.R. Congo gained independence in 1960 from Belgium and, despite a history of instability, is now stable and offers magical tourism experiences.
D.R. Congo boasts numerous attractions, including national parks with exciting flora and fauna.
Among these are Africa’s largest rainforest, Salonga National Reserve, the Congo River, Zongo Falls, mountains, and rich cultural heritage.
Below are some of the destinations you can explore while visiting the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kinshasa City
Kinshasa is the capital of D.R. Congo and is worth visiting for its impressive landmarks, including the Parliament Building, National Museum, and more. As the country’s capital, Kinshasa offers a variety of sights and activities.
While in the city, you can immerse yourself in Congolese culture through performances by youth groups and purchase souvenirs, known as “gilets,” from local craft shops.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
Known for hosting the endangered Eastern lowland gorillas, Kahuzi-Biega National Park spans 2,700 meters of Mount Biega and 3,000 meters of Mount Kahuzi in the southern province of Kivu.
The park was established in 1970 to protect these lowland gorillas. Visitors have the unique opportunity to observe their behaviors. Other wildlife, including chimpanzees, antelopes, elephants, and numerous bird species, can also be seen here.
Virunga National Park
This park, located on the borders of Rwanda and Uganda but within D.R. Congo, is home to mountain gorillas, distinct from the Eastern lowland gorillas. Virunga is the oldest park in Africa and hosts a remarkable biodiversity.
Here, visitors can observe three great apes—chimpanzees, gorillas, and bonobos. Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy the rare bird species found here, along with elephants and lions.
Salonga National Park
Salonga National Park is the largest tropical rainforest reserve in Congo and Africa, covering an area of 33,346 square kilometers. Located in the heart of the Congo River Basin, this park plays a crucial role in the country’s climate. Accessible only by water, Salonga is home to endangered species such as dwarf chimpanzees, slender-snouted crocodiles, and forest elephants. It also boasts untouched forests, earning it the nickname “virgin land.”
Lola ya Bonobo
This sanctuary, near Kinshasa, provides a safe haven for orphaned bonobos. Lola ya Bonobo, which means “paradise for bonobos” in Lingala, is about a 90-minute drive from the airport.
The sanctuary was established to protect bonobos who were rescued from hunters. When a mother bonobo was killed, her young were brought here to be cared for safely.
Mount Nyiragongo
Mount Nyiragongo, located near Virunga National Park, is famous for its lava lake at the summit—the largest of its kind in the world. The volcano last erupted in 2021, marking its 35th eruption since 1984.
For those seeking adventure, a hike to the summit provides a closer look at the lava lake and offers photo opportunities for unforgettable memories.
Lake Kivu
A must-see on any D.R. Congo safari, Lake Kivu is Africa’s sixth-largest freshwater lake. This lake is shared with Rwanda and provides a range of relaxing activities, including swimming, kayaking, and canoeing, perfect after a forest trek.
Garamba National Park
Gazetted in 1938, Garamba National Park is home to various wildlife, including white rhinos. Due to poaching, the population has decreased, but a few rhinos still survive.
The park is also home to the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos—and offers game drives across its savanna grasslands. Other animals, such as antelopes, giraffes, and numerous bird species, can also be observed here.
Lomako-Yokokala Nature Reserve
Located along the Congo River in Mbandaka, a remote part of the country with no electricity, this reserve offers a unique experience for visitors. It’s recommended to leave Kinshasa with fully charged devices. The reserve is home to bonobos and other wildlife.
Boyoma Falls
Formerly known as Stanley Falls, Boyoma Falls is notable for the Wayenga people, who have developed unique fishing techniques, including tripod nets, after generations of living in this region.
While you can visit these destinations throughout the year, the dry season is ideal, as trails are more accessible and less muddy, making trekking easier. The dry season runs from June to October. Many attractions are accessible by air or water transport, though road transport is also an option for some areas.
