Democratic Republic of Congo 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Kinshasa

Morning:

  • Arrival at N’Djili International Airport, Kinshasa.
  • Transfer to the hotel for check-in and freshen up.
  • Visit the Monument de la Révolution (Monument of the Revolution), a symbol of Congolese independence.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at one of the local restaurants offering traditional Congolese dishes.
  • Visit the Palais du Peuple (People’s Palace), the main political center of Kinshasa, and the nearby Marche Central for shopping.
  • Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Kimbanseke, known for its lively street life and markets.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a boat cruise on the Congo River to see the sunset over the city skyline.
  • Dinner at a riverside restaurant.

Things to Know:

  • Kinshasa is the capital and largest city of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • The official language is French, but Lingala and Tshiluba are also widely spoken.
  • It’s advisable to carry cash (US dollars or Euros) as credit cards are not widely accepted.
  • Be aware of petty crimes and always keep your belongings safe.

Day 2: Goma City & Virunga National Park

Morning:

  • Early flight to Goma, the capital city of North Kivu province.
  • Visit the Panzi Hospital, a renowned hospital for victims of sexual violence.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch in Goma and prepare for your visit to Virunga National Park.
  • Take a guided tour of the park to observe the endangered mountain gorillas. This requires prior booking.

Evening:

  • Return to Goma and have dinner at a local restaurant.
  • Overnight stay in Goma.

Things to Know:

  • The visa requirements for the Democratic Republic of Congo can vary, so it’s essential to check the current regulations before traveling.
  • Many tourists opt for a combined visa for Rwanda and DRC as they are close and share borders with Virunga National Park.
  • Transportation within the country is primarily by road or air, with flights being the quicker option for long distances.
  • Always travel with a reliable guide or tour company for safety reasons in remote areas like Virunga National Park.