Summary
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), also referred to as Zaire, presents a complex historical narrative.
From the mismanagement during King Leopold’s reign to the corrupt governance of Mobutu Sese Seko, and the brutal conflicts known as Africa’s “World War,” the country has endured prolonged spells of instability. Nonetheless, this second largest African nation is paving its way toward recovery and is reportedly progressing positively.
While travel advisories concerning the DRC are frequent, during stable periods, the country unveils a breathtaking wilderness poised for exploration. It hosts numerous UNESCO World Heritage-designated national parks, featuring active volcanoes, roaring rivers, and an abundance of wildlife emblematic of Africa. Caution is prudent, yet the DRC stands as both the literal and figurative heart of Africa.
Let us delve into the premier destinations to visit in the Democratic Republic of Congo!
1. Kinshasa
The capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kinshasa is one of the 11 provinces and is characterized by its vibrant chaos and energy, housing over ten million inhabitants.
Initially established by Henry Stanley in the late 19th century as a trading post, it has drawn comparisons to New York City. Visitors can enjoy a boat excursion on the Congo River or indulge in a BBQ picnic along its banks.
The Marche des voleurs, or the city market, is lively, colorful, and offers a fun experience. The local street art scene thrives, and patrons can converse with artists at small cafes along the 30 Juin Boulevard, where they showcase their works for sale.
2. Lola Ya Bonobo
Lola Ya Bonobo serves as a sanctuary for orphaned bonobos and ranks among the most notable tourist attractions in the Kinshasa vicinity.
Due to hunting for bush meat, many orphaned babies are left when their mothers are killed and are often illegally sold as pets. The sanctuary endeavors to rescue these individuals, providing them with a safe haven to live out their lives. As one of the four great apes, bonobos remained relatively undisturbed until the 20th century.
Encompassing 30 hectares of forest, visitors can engage with various feeding stations utilized by the staff to monitor the apes. The sanctuary also welcomes volunteers.
3. Kahuzi Biega National Park
This national park, named after the towering Mt. Kahuzi (over 3,000 meters) and Mt. Biega (over 2,700 meters), is situated in the South Kivu Province, extending from the Congo River basin to Bukavu.
Once active volcanoes, Kahuzi and Biega now provide remarkable opportunities for hiking. Established in 1970 with the purpose of protecting Eastern Lowland Gorillas, it achieved UNESCO World Heritage status just a decade later.
As poaching of gorillas has posed challenges for numerous years, dedicated educational efforts by park management have thrived. Presently, while the gorillas remain endangered, their living conditions continue to advance yearly.
The park exhibits extraordinary biological diversity, housing endemic plants, elephants, chimpanzees, genets, antelope, and servals.
4. Nyiragongo Volcano
The skyline of Goma is prominently defined by Nyiragongo, an impressive volcano exceeding 3,000 meters. This volcano last erupted in 2011, leading to the destruction of approximately 15% of the surrounding land and displacing over 120,000 individuals.
Having erupted 34 times in the past 130 years, Nyiragongo rests at the intersection of two tectonic plates.
The surrounding landscape is captivating, characterized by extensive solidified lava flows that resemble an above-ground coal mine. An active lava lake resides within the crater, occasionally accessible to visitors.
The region has shown significant recovery since the last eruption, now featuring numerous new shops and markets awaiting exploration.
5. Virunga National Park
Situated along the borders with Rwanda and Uganda, Virunga National Park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As the oldest national park in the country, it also boasts the greatest biodiversity. Within its boundaries are expansive lava plains, savannahs, forests, valleys, active volcanoes, swamps, and the glacial peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Approximately 25% of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas inhabit this park, making it the only location to host three of the four great apes simultaneously.
The park is also home to the Okapi, an endangered species resembling a cross between a giraffe and a zebra. Visitors can observe hippos, lions, elephants, and a variety of rare, exotic birds.
Virunga encompasses three distinct regions worth exploring: the Rwenzori Mountains, the Lake Edward area, and the Mikeno volcano sector.
6. Lake Kivu
Located along the border between the DRC and Rwanda, Lake Kivu ranks as the sixth largest lake in Africa.
This freshwater lake is part of a series of lakes in the area, offering picturesque drives that connect the various towns along its shores. The scenic route from Cyangugu to Gisenyi features gently winding roads that provide breathtaking views.
Along the way, abundant banana and eucalyptus trees adorn the landscape, and local residents are often seen greeting passersby with waves. Gisenyi, a notable town once recognized as a colonial beach resort, features charming old mansions and inviting spots for enjoying evening cocktails.
7. Garamba National Park
Garamba National Park is characterized by vast grasslands and savannahs populated by elephants, giraffes, hippos, and both black and white rhinos.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park serves as a vital sanctuary for numerous endangered species.
It is a rare experience to witness such diverse large mammal species coexisting within the same environment, making a visit to this park essential.
8. Salonga National Park
Salonga is the largest tropical rainforest in both the DRC and Africa at large. Within this UNESCO World Heritage Site, one can find various endangered species, including the Congo peacock, dwarf chimpanzees, forest elephants, and the slender-snouted crocodile.
This tranquil park is relatively isolated, necessitating travel by boat for access.
The extensive ecosystem plays a vital role in climate regulation for the entire nation.
9. Okapi Wildlife Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage Reserve is distinguished by its rich diversity of primates and exotic birds.
The reserve offers exceptional opportunities for trekking to remarkable waterfalls amidst striking landscapes along the Epulu and Ituri rivers.
Additionally, the reserve is inhabited by the Efe and Mbuti nomad tribes, fostering the chance to observe the endangered Okapi (approximately one-sixth of the global population resides here).
10. Maiko
Within a landscape characterized by remote areas and national parks, Maiko represents the DRC’s most challenging national park to access.
It is the only park where all three endemic species can be found: the Okapi, the Congo peafowl, and the Grauer gorilla. Visitors may also encounter chimpanzees, elephants, leopards, and bongos.
Although not widely recognized or frequented, the forest serves as an enormous carbon sink, and sustaining its protection is globally significant in combating climate change. The area is home to the Simba Mai Mai people, who sought refuge here during the political turmoil of the 1960s.
Current government efforts aim to resettle the approximately 700 residents to ensure forest preservation.
11. Falls of Zongo
Positioned in Bas-Congo, approximately 130 kilometers from Kinshasa, the Falls of Zongo exemplify the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
For those seeking a brief escape from urban life, this destination provides excellent opportunities for camping or renting a bungalow while exploring the area.
Visitors can engage in hiking and enjoy refreshing swims beneath the falls.
12. Boyoma Falls
Previously known as Stanley Falls, Boyoma Falls consists of an extended series of cataracts along the Lualaba River.
After a total decline of 61 meters and at the conclusion of the seventh cataract, the river converges with the Congo River. The Wagenya fishing tribe resides in the area and, having inhabited this unique river for generations, have developed specialized methods for catching fish.
Their wooden tripods can be observed in the rapids, strategically placed in naturally formed holes in the rocks by the flowing water. These tripods hold baskets designed to function as nets for the fishermen.
13. Idjwi
A two-hour boat journey from Bukavu takes you to Idjwi, an island replete with lush green mountains and remarkable biodiversity.
This island presents a distinct atmosphere within the DRC; newcomers are frequently welcomed with fresh fruit, and transportation is primarily via motorcycle or on foot. Hiking across the island offers tranquility and beauty.
Inhabitants take pride in their history of peace, having never experienced warfare on their territory, creating a palpable sense of difference for visitors.
Accommodation options are limited, yet for adventurous explorers, the island’s natural gifts compensate for any shortages.
14. Kisangani
Kisangani, historically known as Stanleyville, ranks as the third largest city in the DRC and is entirely encompassed by tropical forests.
The city’s new designation derives from the adjacent Boyoma Waterfalls, denoting “the city on the island.” Kisangani features vibrant shopping options, particularly along Avenue de l’Eglise, and excellent local dining experiences.
The city is also recognized for its impressive architecture and has emerged as a favored venue for conventions.
Visitors should explore numerous museums, botanical gardens, and the local zoo. The Rasaire of Notre-Dame Cathedral, located in the central market area, particularly captivates visitors. Additionally, the University of Kisangani houses an impressive collection of East African and Congolese archaeological artifacts.
