28 Best Places To Visit In DRC

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a great tourist destination for those who are interested in history, culture, and nature. The country has a lot to offer, from its bustling capital city of Kinshasa to its scenic national parks.

The DRC is also home to a variety of traditional cultures, which can be experienced through its music, dance, and art. Nature lovers will enjoy the DRC’s many national parks, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees, gorillas, and elephants. The DRC is also a great place to go hiking, camping, and bird-watching.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a vast and varied country with plenty to offer tourists. From the bustling capital city of Kinshasa to the natural beauty of Virunga National Park, there is something for everyone in Congo. Here are just a few of the best places to visit in this fascinating country.

Kinshasa

Kinshasa, formerly known as Léopoldville, is the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is the largest city in the DRC and one of the world’s fastest-growing megacities. A former fishing and trading village, the city has become a bustling metropolis.

In the city, tourists will find a wealth of cultural and historical sites. The National Museum of Kinshasa contains over 46,000 artifacts and exhibits on Congo’s history, wildlife, and culture. Guided tours of the exhibits are available at the museum. There is also a river tour in the city, which gives visitors a wonderful view of the river.

In the west, visitors can visit Boma, a town bordered by two rivers. Those with dreamy souls will appreciate the beautiful scenery and sumptuous sunsets that abound in this small town. A trip to Boma is also a great way to get to know the DRC’s varied ethnic groups.

A variety of handicrafts is available for sale, from local books to artisanal items made by locals. There are many places to shop for African-inspired crafts. One of the best places to buy local crafts is the Marche des Voleurs, a craft market dedicated to African crafts.

The National Museum of the DRC

Built entirely of white marble, the National Museum of the DRC is home to a collection of ancient artifacts and documents. Its dome is topped by a monument to Savorgnan. You can also visit the museum’s contemporary art gallery and see a current exhibition honoring Congolese women.

The museum is located in the capital city of Kinshasa, and it is filled with interesting information about the country’s history. It houses an archive of 46,000 pieces, including information on the country’s flora and fauna, as well as many tribes and historical eras. In addition to this, visitors can gaze at the Congo River, which flows through the city.

You can also visit the Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza mausoleum. This monument contains the remains of the Italian-French explorer who was a pioneer in the exploration of the Congo. The museum also houses many indigenous artifacts from various regions of the country.

In addition to historical artifacts, the museum’s collection includes documents and other documents of Savorgnan. The building also features landscaped gardens and a statue of Savorgnan.

Lubumbashi

Located along the Zambian border, Lubumbashi is the third largest city in the DRC. It is located in the country’s southeasternmost region. It is known for its lively nightlife, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. It is a must-see destination during your visit to the DRC.

Lubumbashi has clean, wide streets and a friendly downtown center. The city’s citizens take pride in their town and take great care to make it look good. Old colonial facades are newly painted and there are few signs of squalor. The city also has two notable religious landmarks and is well-equipped for tourists. It also offers a relaxed attitude towards foreigners, which is refreshing compared to other cities in the DRC.

A visit to Lubumbashi will give you a chance to explore the country’s landscapes and wildlife. You can visit the Virunga National Park, the country’s oldest national park, which is home to mountain gorillas. In addition, you can visit the mineral-rich Katanga Province. The city has good travel connections and a variety of restaurants.

While you’re in Lubumbashi, be sure to stop by the Botanical Gardens and visit the National Museum. Both are great options for those who are interested in history and nature.

National Museum of Lubumbashi

The National Museum of Lubumbashi is a museum with core collections in archaeology and ethnography. The museum was founded in 1946 and houses a wide variety of cultural artifacts. It is a wonderful place to learn about the DRC’s history, culture, and people.

Over the years, the museum has developed a diverse ethnographic and entomological collection. This permanent collection is complemented by the museum’s many thematic temporary exhibitions.

The museum features a collection of artifacts from different ethnic groups, cultural history, and historical legacies. It has three exhibition halls, and over 12,000 artifacts are on display. Because the DRC is located right on the equator, the weather is tropical most of the year. However, rainstorms can occur.

Virunga National Park

For a great place to hike, go trekking, or take in some scenery, you can’t go wrong with Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is located in the Albertine Rift Valley of eastern DRC and was created in 1925. Its elevation ranges from 680 meters in the Semliki River valley to 5,109 meters in the Rwenzori Mountains.

The park is accessible by air and road. You can fly into Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport and then drive to the border town of Gisenyi. You can also access the park through Rwanda’s Bukima and Bunagana borders. The total journey time is about four hours.

It is possible to see mountain gorillas in the park, which are protected by the law in the country. While the number of mountain gorillas in the park is decreasing, you can see some of the park’s other residents, including hippopotamuses, lions, pelicans, and warthogs.

Bukavu

Bukavu is located on the southern tip of Lake Kivu and is full of charming architecture. The town is the perfect base from which to tour the surrounding Parc National de Kahuzi-Biega National Park. The park is a neighbor of the Virunga Mountains and is home to habituated eastern lowland gorillas.

You can easily reach Bukavu by bus or rental car from Kisangani or Goma. One of the highlights of the town is the Our Lady of Peace Cathedral. You can also take advantage of the subtropical climate in Bukavu, which is perched 1,500 meters above sea level. You can also enjoy boating or swimming in Lake Kivu.

Zongo

If you want to see a majestic waterfall, you should visit the Zongo Falls in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These waterfalls are 65 m tall and crash through the rainforest canopy. They produce a stunning rainbow and are an excellent photo opportunity. The falls are close to Kinshasa in the Equateur province.

You can visit the waterfall in the town of Kisantu. This place was founded over a century ago by a missionary. It includes thousands of plants and trees. A school and a restaurant are part of the area. The area is also home to crocodiles.

Itombwe Mountains

The Itombwe Mountains are a natural wonder located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. They are part of the Albertine Rift range and are situated near the western shore of Lake Tanganyika. They have an unbroken progression from lowland forest to montane evergreen forest.

The Itombwe Mountains are also considered one of Africa’s most biodiverse massifs. They cover over 7 000 square kilometers and are home to more than 60 000 people, including the indigenous Batwa tribe. The mountains are a remote destination and some valleys are only accessible by motorcycle or on foot.

Mount Emin

This mountain is located in the Rwenzori mountain range and is the fourth-highest peak in the country. It is characterized by narrow ridges and rocky terrain. The mountain’s twin peaks are known as the Kraepelin and are 15720 feet high. The mountain is accessible from the Mugusu valley in the DRC.

While Mount Emin is possible to climb throughout the year, it is best to go during the dry season, when the area receives less rain. This means your trek to the summit is always shorter. You can also choose to take a mountaineering tour, which is shorter than the full summit trek.

Other high peaks include Mount Baker and Mount Speke. They are located within the Virunga National Park.

Lake Ubwari Wildlife Sanctuary

Lake Ubwari wildlife sanctuary is a park situated approximately 90 minutes outside of Kinshasa. Here you can watch bonobos in their natural habitat. These primates are peaceful and highly intelligent. Their forested enclosures offer trails for visitors to hike. Visitors are also likely to encounter bonobos hanging around the main building.

The park is home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and an active volcano called Mount Nyiragongo. The park was the subject of the Oscar-nominated documentary Virunga, which quickly sparked a tourism boom.

Mbudi Nature

Mbudi Nature is a private park located near Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the perfect destination for children, offering a play area and a cookout restaurant complete with a range of drinks. The park is a short distance from downtown Kinshasa and is well-maintained and beautifully landscaped. Visitors can enjoy a picnic under a tree, or stay in a straw hut for ten to thirty people.

During your visit, you will see bizarre sculptures and the water level in the park changes throughout the year. The park also features a cemetery. The park is open all year round, and you are welcome to bring a picnic lunch. It is also open to visitors any time of day, with water levels that vary throughout the year.

Goma

Goma lies close to Lake Kivu on the border with Rwanda. It’s considered the capital of the northern Kivu province. It’s also one of the largest cities in DRC and is home to a large number of international humanitarian organizations. It’s also close to the Virunga National Park.

The city has many attractions that appeal to tourists. Its natural landscapes are spectacular, and the Nyiragongo Volcano is a highlight. Other attractions include theaters, museums, and restaurants. While you’re here, make sure to monitor the security situation. You’ll also want to make sure that you have the right travel insurance.

Lomami National Park

Lomami National Park is a beautiful and diverse place. Its vast landscapes are home to many rare species of animals. You can spot bonobo, Congo peafowl, and Dryas monkeys. You can also catch a fish or two in the river basins.

Lomami National Park is home to more than 9,000 square kilometers of wilderness, including a wildlife reserve. You’ll be able to see endangered African forest elephants and other species, as well as a new kind of monkey. Visitors can take part in research projects that help protect this unique ecosystem.

Lofoi Falls

Located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lofoi Falls is an enchanting 340-meter-high waterfall. It’s one of the largest waterfalls in Central Africa. The falls are a tributary of the Lufira River. Visitors can hike up to the falls and explore the surrounding area.

The waterfalls are spectacular, and best seen during the rainy season. There are three main falls here: Masansa, Lutshipuka, and Lofoi. You can swim and explore the falls, and see various bird species. The waterfalls are part of the Kundelungu National Park, which is about 180km north of Lubumbashi.

This waterfall is located in the province of Katanga and is well worth the time and effort. During the peak months of December and January, the falls release a large volume of water, and during the dry season, the falls release only a small amount of water. During this time, tourists can stay overnight at the falls’ crest.

Marine Mangroves Park

The Marine Mangrove Park covers more than sixty thousand acres. Its western region covers more than one million acres. It also contains a biosphere reserve called Luki.

The park is located near the mouth of the Congo River and ends near the town of Boma. The area features water depths of thirty meters and has a rich diversity of flora and fauna depending on its water types. In addition, the park contains wetlands, humid savanna, and Atlantic seaboard ecosystems.

The park is also home to the endangered Manatee population in the DRC. The Manatees are large herbivores that live along the banks of the Congo River. This species can grow to 590 kilograms and stretch up to four meters long. The females are larger than the males, and their tails are paddle-shaped.

One of the most important features of the Mangroves National Park is its biodiversity. It is a Ramsar wetland and home to a diverse variety of plants and animals. You can spot crocodiles, hippos, and snakes in this unique ecosystem. Its mangrove forest is also home to several species of primates.

Pool Malebo

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Africa’s last great wilderness, then you should consider visiting the famous Pool Malebo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Formerly called Stanley Pool, this lakelike expanse of the lower Congo River stretches between the Republic of the Congo (Brazzaville) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Kinshasa). The watery expanse is 22 miles long and 14 miles wide and is one of the largest lakes in Africa. Its shores are home to the cities of Brazzaville and Kinshasa.

The lake is beautiful and peaceful. You can picnic by the lakeside, or swim in the nearby Chutes de Lukia. If you are interested in learning more about the history of the area, you can hire a guide for a day of sightseeing and nature excursions.

Kundelungu National Park

Kundelungu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its dense forests, savannah grasslands, and wildlife. This park is home to a diverse range of animals, including lions, leopards, and zebras. The park is also home to a variety of bird species.

Several bird species can be spotted in the thick forested forests of Kundelungu as well as near the waterfalls and lakes. This park is designated as an Important Birding Area, and birders can expect to see pelicans, marabou storks, wattled cranes, and chestnut owlets.

This park is very remote and must be reached via boat from Mbandaka or by flying to Ilebo in the south. This park is considered one of the most beautiful rainforests in Africa and is home to a wide variety of animals.

The park has stunning flora and fauna, including the Lofoi Falls, which is 384 meters tall and connected to lake Upemba. There are also several species of antelope, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, and lions. Its two waterfalls, Lofoi Falls and Masansa Falls, are the highest in Africa.

National Botanical Gardens

The Congolese National Garden, a seven-hectare green lung in the heart of the city, is home to over 100 different species of trees. It serves as a hub for environmental education and nature conservation in the DRC, as well as a relaxing, scenic setting.

Here, young Congolese take walks under the shade of the trees, and a large hall hosts cultural events. It is open seven days a week, from 9 am to 5 pm.

The Kisantu Botanical Garden, 120 km south of Kinshasa, is a great place for a day trip. The gardens are easily accessible, and there is even a gift shop and museum. Visitors can purchase tree seedlings for as little as $2, and they can also eat lunch in the garden’s restaurant. The entire experience takes about two hours, and it is a great place to go with a partner or as a family.

During your visit, you can see a variety of animals and birds in the area, including the Congo peafowl. You can also go on a canoe trip to the nearby Congo River Reserve. You can even take a picnic and enjoy the scenery. In addition to seeing the diverse wildlife, the park also offers a variety of activities and excursions for visitors.

Upemba National Park

Upemba National Park is a large national park in the southeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park is home to an enormous variety of wildlife and is a must-visit destination for wildlife lovers.

The Upemba National Park is located on a plateau in the southeastern part of the country, which is bordered by the Lualaba River and the Upper Congo River. It is home to many animals including cheetahs, lions, elephants, and the endemic Katanga Impala. This park is also home to several species of birds including the spotted ground thrush and wattled crane.

The Upemba depression is a vast area that contains a lake named Lake Upemba. It also contains more than 40 archaeological sites, of which only six have been excavated. The lake is also home to elephants, buffalo, lions, and other animals. It is also home to many aquatic birds.

Parc De La Vallee De La Nsele

The Park de la Vallee de la Nsele is huge, with an area of over 20 thousand hectares. It’s home to a wide variety of animals and offers a variety of activities that can be paid for. Some of the activities offered at the park include zip-lining, horse riding, minigolf, and swimming.

The park covers over twenty thousand acres and is home to many different kinds of wildlife. Some of the animals you can see include lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and impalas. It is also a great place to participate in activities like zip-lining and horseback riding.

During the day, you will have the opportunity to visit the local market in Muanda. You can also learn about Congolese culture and daily life. You can even take a nightlife tour, which includes a Rumba concert with famous musicians.

The park offers recreational opportunities like zip-lining and mountain biking. You can also take part in many activities through local businesses like Cap Adventures and Loisirs.

Maiko National Park

If you’re looking for a unique place to experience nature, consider visiting the Maiko National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This remote forest area is ten thousand square kilometers in size and spans three states. Here, you can explore a variety of different ecosystems.

This park is also a great place for wildlife viewing. You can see endemic species, including okapi, Congo peafowl, and leopards. You may even see an aquatic genet, which is unique to this region. While visiting this park, make sure to bring along a camera as well as binoculars!

Maiko National Park is located in the eastern portion of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is comprised of ten thousand square kilometers of rainforest and spans three provinces: Maniema, Oriental, and Nord Kivu. In addition to gorillas, this area is home to a large population of endemic animals, including African forest elephants, eastern chimpanzees, and the aquatic genet.

The park has many endemic species, including the eastern lowland gorilla, the Okapi, and the Congo peacock. These species are endemic to this area, but illegal mining and poaching have limited their numbers.

Okapi Wildlife Reserve

The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is a protected area in the DRC, home to many animal species. The reserve was originally created as prime habitat for the okapi mammal and is one of the largest national parks in the country.

The reserve is located in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, close to the borders of Uganda and South Sudan. It is accessible by road or air from the cities of Kisangani and Beni. The trip takes about eight hours.

In addition to okapis, visitors can see elephants, leopards, giant forest hogs, bonobos, and chimpanzees. The Okapi is also a great place for birdwatching – there are 376 species recorded there.

The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is one of the most diverse areas in Africa. It is home to over 1,500 types of plants. The gorilla, elephant, and bonobo are among the most common animals, and there are also over a thousand species of plants.

Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary

If you love bonobos, you might want to visit Lola ya Bonobo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Founded in 1994 by Claudine André, this is the world’s only bonobo sanctuary. It is located in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Lola ya Bonobo is a great place to see the animals that make this country so unique. Visitors can interact with bonobos and enjoy the flora and fauna of the area. The sanctuary has lodgings available for travelers, and it is operated by an NGO, which means it is run by volunteers.

The Congo Rainforest

The Congo rainforest is a large lowland tropical moist broadleaf forest that extends across the basin and tributaries of the Congo River. It is one of the few major rainforests in the world that absorbs more carbon than it releases. For this reason, it is also one of the most threatened and endangered.

The lowland forests of the Congo Basin are home to a wide range of primate species. Western lowland gorillas, colobus monkeys, and mangabeys live in this region. The region is also home to forest elephants and buffalos. Visitors will have the opportunity to spot these unique creatures during their safaris.

Mikeno Volcano

One of the best things to do in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is to visit the mountain Mikeno. This mountain stands at an elevation of 4,437 meters and is surrounded by the mountain peaks of Nyamulagira and Bisoke. It is located within Virunga National Park.

If you are planning to visit the mountain, make sure to book a tour package with a tour operator. You should also make sure to pack the proper hiking equipment to make the trek easier. You should also hire porters if you plan on carrying large amounts of luggage.

Other volcanic areas in the DRC include Mount Karisimbi and Mount Mikeno. While DR Congo is home to two active volcanoes, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has six dormant ones. Other notable ones are Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabinyo, and Mount Gahinga. The highest peak is Mount Karisimbi.

The Virunga Mountains are an extensive volcanic chain spanning parts of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Virunga names are Swahili and have a variety of descriptive meanings.

Salonga National Park

This UNESCO world heritage site is home to many unique wildlife species. You can see a variety of species of chimpanzees, Congo water civets, leopards, elephants, and tree pangolins. The park also supports Angolan mongoose, wolf monkeys, and potto monkeys. You’ll also get to see a white rhinoceros and a red colobus.

Salonga National Park is located in the Central Basin of the Congo River. It is one of the largest conservation areas in Africa and is also one of the most remote. The park is accessible only by water transportation, and it is located in the middle of a vast area.

Garamba National Park

Garamba National Park is a nearly two-thousand-square-mile national park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. You will find it located in the country’s northeastern region. The park is an excellent place to spot wildlife and discover the country’s rich culture and history.

This park is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. The park is also home to white rhinos, which are critically endangered species. You can also see bush pigs, leopards, and African Forest elephants. In addition to wildlife, there are also a number of endemic plants and trees.

Garamba National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Africa. It covers a massive 5200 square kilometers and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park has diverse ecosystems that range from tropical forests to extensive savanna grasslands. It is also home to endemic species, including the northern white rhinoceros, spotted hyenas, and hippopotamus.

Boat cruises along the Garamba River provide a great opportunity to observe wildlife up close. The park also features a variety of aquatic creatures, including hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and snakes.

Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Kahuzi-Biega National Park is a protected area located near the western bank of Lake Kivu, close to the Rwandan border. Here you’ll be able to witness the most beautiful species of wildlife. There are more than 200 species of birds to see, including the rare black-headed colobus monkey.

Bird watching is particularly rewarding here, as you’ll see a variety of bird species in the trees. The best time to view birdlife in Kahuzi-Biega is during the early morning and evening hours. Birders can also enjoy forest walks to spot some endemic species.

The park is home to the endemic lowland gorillas, which are one of the 13 primates that are indigenous to the region. Besides birds, you’ll find a wide variety of other plants and animals. The park’s primary tropical forest provides shelter to a wide range of species, including more than 1,170 species of plants.

Mount Sabyinyo

Mount Sabyinyo is about eight kilometers long and fairly vertical in both directions. The trail is difficult, so prepare yourself for an intense hike. The hike can take between seven and ten hours. The summit is 3,669 meters high, and it marks the border between Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The area is home to over 115 species of birds. Many of these birds can be seen while hiking on Mount Sabyinyo. Common birds include the grey-capped warbler, Kivu ground thrush, and white-naked raven. The trail to Mount Sabyinyo can be challenging, so be prepared to spend a day or two on the mountain.

A visit to Mount Sabyinyo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a worthwhile adventure. You’ll see beautiful landscapes and get a breathtaking view of the surrounding areas. The mighty Sabyinyo is part of the Virunga mountain range, which is bordered by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Climbing this mountain is challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Conclusion

DRC is a country that has great people, beautiful landscapes, and fascinating culture. There is so much to see and do in DRC. You can enjoy the cultural diversity of DRC by exploring its varied regions and trying the local cuisine.

The DRC remains one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. Much of the country’s forest is still intact, and ecotourism has the potential to provide employment for local people and generate income for conservation.

The Congo’s rain forest, with its gorillas, elephants, and mountain gorillas, is among Africa’s best-kept secrets. With few tourists visiting, the country’s ethnic diversity continues 650 languages and over 800 tribes. That diversity, combined with its dramatic scenery, makes it the country’s top tourism destination.