Congo 6 Day Itinerary

Congo 6-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa

  • Arrive at N’djili International Airport in Kinshasa, the capital city of Congo.
  • Check-in at a hotel and rest from your journey.
  • Visit the Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (Monument of African Renaissance), a grand statue symbolizing the unity and strength of Africa.
  • Explore the vibrant MarcheCentral, Kinshasa’s main market for local food, crafts, and textiles.
  • Evening: Enjoy Congolese music and cuisine at a local restaurant or bar.

Day 2: Exploring Kinshasa

  • Visit the Basilique du Sacre Coeur de Kinshasa, an impressive Catholic church overlooking the city.
  • Wander around the Parc National, home to a variety of bird species and monkeys.
  • Learn about Congolese history and art at the Institut Mondial des Arts et Traditions Congolaises (IMATRAC).
  • Take a boat trip on the Congo River for sunset, offering stunning views of Kinshasa’s skyline.

Day 3: Transfer to Kisangani

  • Morning: Depart for Kisangani by plane. (Note: Flights can be irregular due to weather conditions; consider allowing extra time.)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Musee Sire Samba, showcasing Congolese art and cultural artifacts.
  • Evening: Explore the local markets and try regional dishes such as fufu and mpekua.

Day 4: Bonobo Sanctuary & Garamba National Park

  • Travel by car or boat to the Lola Ya Bonobo sanctuary, home to orphaned bonobos (pygmy chimps). Learn about this critically endangered species and their conservation efforts.
  • Afternoon: Transfer to Garamba National Park for an overnight safari. Experience the unique wildlife, including northern white rhinos and forest elephants.

Day 5: Virunga National Park

  • Morning: Depart from Kisangani to Virunga National Park, home to the world’s last mountain gorillas.
  • Afternoon: Go on a guided gorilla trek for an unforgettable experience with these gentle giants.
  • Evening: Stay overnight at one of the park’s lodges or campsites.

Day 6: Virunga National Park & Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before visiting other attractions in Virunga, such as Nyiragongo Volcano or Lake Edward.
  • Afternoon: Bid farewell to the park and transfer back to Goma for your onward journey.
  • Evening: Depart from Goma’s Gisenyi International Airport.

Things to Know Before You Go:

  • Visa requirements: Most visitors need a visa to enter Congo. Apply well in advance through the Congolese embassy or consulate.
  • Health precautions: Yellow fever vaccination is required, and malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Consult your doctor before travel.
  • Safety: Exercise caution when traveling in Congo, particularly in Kinshasa. Always keep a low profile, avoid displaying valuables, and be mindful of your surroundings.
  • Money: The official currency is the Congolese franc (CDF), but US dollars are also widely accepted. Bring sufficient cash as ATMs may not always be available.
  • Accommodation: Book hotels in advance, especially for popular destinations such as Garamba National Park and Virunga.
  • Transportation: Taxis and shared taxis (moto-taxi or zebu-taxi) are common modes of transportation within cities. For intercity travel, consider flying due to the challenging road conditions.