Things to Do in Congo

About Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo harbors one of Earth's last great wilderness frontiers, where the thundering Congo River carves through the planet's second-largest rainforest and volcanic peaks pierce the clouds above mist-shrouded highlands. This is a land of staggering biodiversity and untamed natural forces, home to mountain gorillas, okapis found nowhere else on Earth, and landscapes that shift from dense jungle to active lava lakes. For travelers seeking genuine adventure beyond the well-trodden path, the DRC offers an experience of nature at its most raw and magnificent.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: The Congolese franc (CDF) is the official currency, but US dollars (particularly crisp, newer bills post-2013) are widely accepted and often preferred in major cities like Kinshasa and Lubumbashi. Always carry small denominations as change can be difficult to obtain.

• Transportation in Kinshasa: Due to limited public transport infrastructure, negotiate taxi fares before departing and consider using established services through your hotel, as street taxis rarely have meters. Traffic congestion in Kinshasa is severe, so allow extra time (often 2-3 hours) for trips across the city.

• Required Documentation: You must obtain a visa before arrival (visa on arrival is not available), and yellow fever vaccination is mandatory—officials will check your vaccination card at entry and may refuse admission without it. Keep multiple photocopies of your passport, visa, and vaccination records as checkpoints are common.

• Language and Communication: French is the official language and essential for navigation, as English is rarely spoken outside of international hotels and businesses. Learning basic French phrases or hiring a local French-speaking guide will significantly improve your experience and ability to handle daily transactions.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit the Democratic Republic of Congo is during the dry season from June to September, when temperatures hover between 23-28°C (73-82°F) in most regions and rainfall diminishes significantly, making road travel more feasible and wildlife viewing in parks like Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega more productive as animals congregate around water sources. December through February offers a shorter dry window with similar conditions, though humidity remains higher at 70-85%, and this period coincides with fewer international visitors, potentially offering better availability for mountain gorilla trekking permits ($400 USD). However, the wet seasons (October-November and March-May) bring torrential rains averaging 150-250mm monthly that render many unpaved roads impassable and increase malaria risk, though budget travelers may find better hotel rates and the lush, green landscapes provide spectacular photography opportunities, particularly around the Congo River basin. Kinshasa's Fête de la Musique in June showcases the country's legendary rumba scene, while avoiding the rainy season is critical for those planning to visit eastern regions like Goma, where volcanic soil becomes treacherously muddy and landslides can block access to key destinations.