Congo 3 Day Itinerary

Congo 3-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Kinshasa

  • Morning: Arrival at N’Djili International Airport, Kinshasa. Complete necessary immigration and customs formalities. Get your taxi or arrange for a pre-booked private car to take you to the city center.

  • Lunch: Visit La Belle Ville, one of the most popular restaurants in Kinshasa known for its Congolese and international dishes.

  • Afternoon: Head to Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (Monument of African Renaissance) for a panoramic view of the city. Then, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Kimbanseke, known for its lively markets and street art.

  • Evening: Experience local Congolese music and dance at La Villette, a popular nightclub in Kinshasa.

Things to Know:

  • Kinshasa is the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo, known for its rich culture, vibrant music scene, and delicious food.
  • The official language is French, although Lingala and Kikongo are also widely spoken.
  • Always carry small denominations of local currency (Congolese Franc) as change can be hard to come by.

Day 2: Goma City Tour

  • Morning: Take a flight from Kinshasa to Goma, the capital city of North Kivu province. This journey typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Goma Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the 2004 Goma volcanic eruption. Then, head to the shores of Lake Kivu for a relaxing boat ride.

  • Evening: Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy the unique flavors of North Kivu cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Goma is situated near the active Nyiragongo volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. However, guided tours are available for those interested in exploring it safely.
  • The city is located near the border with Rwanda and can be a gateway to visit the gorillas in Virunga National Park.

Day 3: Visit Virunga National Park

  • Morning: Early morning departure for Virunga National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The drive takes approximately 1 hour from Goma.

  • Afternoon: Spend the day on a guided gorilla trek within the park. This unforgettable experience offers an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect their natural habits.

  • Evening: Return to Goma for a well-deserved rest, followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Things to Know:

  • Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s oldest national parks.
  • It is essential to hire an experienced guide for the gorilla trek, as the terrain can be challenging and navigating the park requires specific knowledge.

Visa Requirements: Travelers from most countries require a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo. Tourist visas can be obtained at the embassy or upon arrival at the airport. Ensure you have a valid passport, proof of yellow fever vaccination, and sufficient funds for your stay.

Transportation: Taxis and private cars are widely available in both Kinshasa and Goma. For traveling between cities, flights are the most convenient option. When organizing your itinerary, keep in mind that roads can be poor quality and travel times may vary due to road conditions or checkpoints.

Enjoy your trip to Congo!