Democratic Republic of Congo 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa

Places to Go:

  1. Brazzaville River: The river that separates DRC from its neighboring country, Republic of Congo. You can take a ferry for an incredible view.
  2. Museum Jadotville: Learn about the historic events of the Battle of Monusco (United Nations Operation in DR Congo).
  3. Monument de la Révolution: A significant monument commemorating the country’s independence.
  4. Le Marche Central: Experience local life and shop for souvenirs at this bustling market.

Things to Know:

  • Kinshasa is the capital city of DRC with a population of over 10 million people. It’s also the largest French-speaking city in the world.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring less touristy areas.

Visa Requirements:

  • Visas are required for most nationalities. You can apply online or at the embassy.

Transportation:

  • Taxis and motorbike taxis (known as “taxi-motos”) are common modes of transportation in Kinshasa. Be sure to negotiate prices beforehand.

Day 2: Goma City & Virunga National Park

Places to Go:

  1. Virunga National Park: Home to the endangered mountain gorillas and other wildlife like hippos, elephants, and lions.
  2. Lake Kivu: One of Africa’s Great Lakes with beautiful views and opportunities for boat trips.
  3. Goma City Market: Experience local life in this bustling market city.

Things to Know:

  • Goma is near the active Nyiragongo Volcano, but it’s not safe to visit due to potential eruptions.
  • The security situation in eastern DRC can be unstable, so always check travel advisories and travel with a reputable tour company.

Visa Requirements:

  • Visas are required for most nationalities. You can apply online or at the embassy.

Transportation:

  • Flights from Kinshasa to Goma are available, but road transportation is also an option. The journey can be long and potentially dangerous due to the security situation.

Day 3: Bukavu & Kahuzi-Biega National Park

Places to Go:

  1. Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Another home for mountain gorillas, as well as eastern lowland gorillas and other wildlife like elephants and chimpanzees.
  2. Lake Kivu: Enjoy the beautiful views and possibly take a boat trip.
  3. Bukavu City Centre: Explore this peaceful city with its picturesque lakefront.

Things to Know:

  • Kahuzi-Biega National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • The security situation in eastern DRC can be unstable, so always check travel advisories and travel with a reputable tour company.

Visa Requirements:

  • Visas are required for most nationalities. You can apply online or at the embassy.

Transportation:

  • Flights from Goma to Bukavu are available, but road transportation is also an option. The journey can be long and potentially dangerous due to the security situation.

Day 4: Kisangani & Tshopo National Park

Places to Go:

  1. Tshopo National Park: A large national park known for its diverse wildlife, including gorillas, hippos, and crocodiles.
  2. Musee de la Révolution: Learn about the local history in this museum.
  3. Kisangani City Centre: Explore this vibrant city with its bustling markets and friendly locals.

Things to Know:

  • Kisangani is a major transportation hub for the Congo River and its tributaries.
  • The security situation in northern DRC can be unstable, so always check travel advisories and travel with a reputable tour company.

Visa Requirements:

  • Visas are required for most nationalities. You can apply online or at the embassy.

Transportation:

  • Flights from Bukavu to Kisangani are available, but road transportation is also an option. The journey can be long and potentially dangerous due to the security situation.

Day 5: Rest & Prepare for Bonobo Sanctuary

Places to Go:

  • Spend a relaxing day in Kisangani, prepare for your visit to the Bonobo Sanctuary.

Things to Know:

  • The Bonobo Sanctuary is home to around 100 bonobos, an endangered species of great ape.
  • Be aware that the sanctuary is located in a remote area and travel can be challenging.

Visa Requirements:

  • Visas are required for most nationalities. You can apply online or at the embassy.

Transportation:

  • Flights or boat transportation to the Bonobo Sanctuary are available, but road transportation is also an option. The journey can be long and potentially dangerous due to the security situation.

Day 6: Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary & Departure

Places to Go:

  1. Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary: Spend a day observing these fascinating great apes in their natural habitat.
  2. Departure: Return to Kisangani for your departure from DRC.

Things to Know:

  • The Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of bonobos.
  • Always follow the sanctuary’s rules to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the bonobos.

Visa Requirements:

  • Visas are required for most nationalities. You can apply online or at the embassy before departure.

Transportation:

  • Flights from Kisangani to your final destination.