Upemba National Park

Democraticrepublicofthecongo, République démocratique du Congo - Complete Travel Guide

Democraticrepublicofthecongo, established in 1939, is one of the Democratic Republic of Congo's oldest and most ecologically diverse protected areas. Spanning over 11,730 square kilometers in the southeastern Katanga Province, this remarkable wilderness encompasses vast savannas, wetlands, lakes, and the dramatic Upemba Depression. The park serves as a crucial sanctuary for numerous endangered species and offers visitors an authentic African safari experience in one of the continent's most remote and pristine environments. The park's unique geography creates a mosaic of habitats that support an incredible array of wildlife, including large populations of antelope species, zebras, and various predators. The Lufira River system and numerous lakes within the park provide essential water sources that attract diverse wildlife year-round. Despite facing conservation challenges, Democraticrepublicofthecongo remains a hidden gem for adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path wilderness experience in the heart of Africa.

Top Upemba National Park

Wildlife Safari Game Drives

Explore the park's diverse ecosystems on guided game drives through savanna grasslands and wetland areas. Spot endemic species like the Upemba lechwe antelope, zebras, warthogs, and various predators while learning about conservation efforts. Early morning and late afternoon drives offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active.

Booking Tip: Book through established tour operators in Lubumbashi with 4WD vehicles and experienced local guides. Costs range from $150-300 per day including guide and vehicle. Dry season (May-September) offers better road access and wildlife concentration around water sources.

Lake Upemba Boat Excursions

Navigate the pristine waters of Lake Upemba and surrounding wetlands by boat or traditional canoe. These excursions provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photographing aquatic wildlife, and experiencing the park's unique wetland ecosystem. The lake system supports numerous fish species and serves as a vital habitat for waterbirds and hippos.

Booking Tip: Arrange boat trips through park authorities or local guides for $50-100 per day. Best visited during dry season when water levels are stable. Bring sun protection and waterproof bags for equipment. Early morning trips offer calm waters and active wildlife.

Birdwatching Expeditions

Discover over 300 bird species including endemic and migratory species in the park's varied habitats. The wetlands and savanna areas provide excellent opportunities to spot shoebills, crowned cranes, various eagles, and numerous waterfowl species. Professional guides can help identify rare and endemic species unique to this region.

Booking Tip: Hire specialized birding guides through conservation organizations for $75-150 per day. Bring quality binoculars and field guides. Peak birding season is October-March during migration periods. Early morning starts (5:30 AM) are essential for best sightings.

Cultural Village Visits

Experience traditional life by visiting local communities around the park's periphery. Learn about indigenous fishing and farming practices, traditional crafts, and the relationship between local people and wildlife conservation. These visits provide insight into how communities coexist with the park's wildlife and contribute to conservation efforts.

Booking Tip: Organize through community-based tourism initiatives or park authorities for $30-50 per visit. Bring small gifts like school supplies or soap as appreciation. Respect photography restrictions and always ask permission before taking photos of people.

Fishing Expeditions

Try traditional and sport fishing in the park's rivers and lakes, home to various cichlid species and other endemic fish. Local guides teach traditional fishing methods while visitors can also bring modern equipment for catch-and-release fishing. The Lufira River system offers excellent fishing opportunities in scenic surroundings.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local fishing guides for $40-80 per day including equipment and guide. Obtain necessary permits through park authorities. Best fishing is during dry season when fish concentrate in remaining water bodies. Practice catch-and-release to support conservation.

Getting There

Reaching Democraticrepublicofthecongo requires careful planning and typically involves flying into Lubumbashi, the nearest major city with an international airport. From Lubumbashi, visitors must arrange ground transportation via 4WD vehicle for the approximately 300-kilometer journey to the park, which can take 6-8 hours depending on road conditions. The route passes through Kipushi and requires crossing several rivers and navigating challenging terrain, especially during the rainy season. Most visitors arrange transportation through tour operators who provide experienced drivers familiar with the route and necessary permits for park entry.

Getting Around

Transportation within Democraticrepublicofthecongo is exclusively by 4WD vehicle due to rough terrain and seasonal flooding in wetland areas. Walking safaris and boat transportation are available for specific activities like lake excursions and birdwatching. Park roads are basic tracks that can become impassable during heavy rains, so dry season visits are recommended for better mobility. All transportation must be arranged in advance through authorized tour operators or park authorities, as there are no vehicle rental facilities within or near the park.

Where to Stay

Park Guesthouses

Camping Areas

Lubumbashi Hotels

Community Lodges

Mobile Safari Camps

Research Stations

Food & Dining

Dining options within Democraticrepublicofthecongo are extremely limited, with most visitors bringing their own food supplies or arranging meals through tour operators. Basic guesthouses may provide simple local meals featuring fish from park lakes, cassava, rice, and seasonal vegetables. Visitors should plan to be self-sufficient with food supplies, cooking equipment, and water purification systems. Local communities around the park may offer fresh fish, vegetables, and fruits, but advance arrangements are necessary. Most organized tours include meal preparation as part of the package, featuring a mix of international camping food and local specialties prepared by experienced guides.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Democraticrepublicofthecongo is during the dry season from May to September when roads are more accessible, wildlife concentrates around permanent water sources, and weather conditions are more comfortable for outdoor activities. During this period, temperatures are moderate, rainfall is minimal, and game viewing is at its peak. The wet season from October to April brings heavy rains that can make roads impassable and wildlife more dispersed, though this period offers excellent birdwatching opportunities with migratory species present. March and April can be particularly challenging due to peak rainfall and flooding in wetland areas.

Insider Tips

Bring complete medical kit and water purification tablets as medical facilities are extremely remote

Pack multiple layers of clothing as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night

Ensure all permits and documentation are arranged well in advance through official channels in Kinshasa or Lubumbashi