Introduction:
Only Africa offers the most exceptional wildlife experiences you can get. The Democratic Republic of Congo is the heart of Africa and a unique place to spend holidays. There is a plethora of wildlife, beaches, volcanoes, mountains, and many more exciting places to experience. Though the Democratic Republic of Congo is less explored, it is among the places contributing as a spot for massive international tourism.
Formerly called Zaire, the DR Congo lies in Central Africa and is the second-largest country in Africa. The Congo is rich in natural resources. The Congo River is the world’s deepest and second largest river that flows throughout the country.
Why should you visit the Democratic Republic of Congo?
Congo is the country where you can explore the beauty of nature. The country offers a fantastic experience with wildlife and savannas. There are much more exciting and fascinating scenes that give attraction to tourism.
Places to visit in Congo:
Mount Nyiragongo
Mount Nyiragongo is the most magnificent sight with an active volcano. The Nyiragongo is one of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Region. It is a popular spot for tourists given that it is one of the few active volcanoes in Africa. During a visit to Eastern Congo, you can see the smoke from the opening of the volcano miles away in the sky. The area becomes a flaming beacon in the night. Trekking to the top gives a thrilling experience.
A hike to the top of the Nyiragongo takes two days with a one-night stay at the top of the mountain. Guided tours start daily from Kibati and can be booked through a tour operator.
For the camping supplies that you may need during the hike, you will find plenty of shops and markets near the area.
Virunga National Park
The Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park. It was created in 1925 by the Belgian Colonial Government. This is one of the only three national parks in the world that are homes to the mountain gorillas. The park is also home to chimpanzees, man’s closest cousins. If you come to visit Africa, Congo Gorillas Safaris are some of the most thrilling experiences that you should experience. You will hike into the jungles through this adventurous safari park on unforgettable gorilla trekking tours in Africa.
There are lots of things to do while in Virunga National Park;
- Go for gorilla trekking in the Virunga Mountains
- Go for chimpanzee tracking in the Tango forest
- Visit the Sekenkwe Gorilla Orphanage and interact with the orphaned and rescued gorillas.
- Visit the local community tours
- Enjoy a homestay to the Kibumba Community
- Go for hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains
Kahuzi Biega National Park
The Democratic Republic of Congo is blessed to host three of the four known gorilla species. Less known to tourists, Kahuzi National Park is becoming popular among wildlife lovers given that it is home to Eastern Lowland gorillas, a subspecies of the Eastern gorilla. Elsewhere the Eastern lowland gorilla can be seen in Maiko National Park.
Kahuzi Biega National Park is also a residence for many species of birds and animals. There are many more exciting activities that you can do, like camping, forest walks, and trekking.
Pointe Noire
Pointe Noire is the place of wildlife and beaches at the same time. Sauvage is the most popular beach in Pointe Noire. Atlantic Palace Hotel is one of the famous hotels to stay in. It is a great spot to spend your holidays.
Loufoulakari Falls and Bela Falls
Loufoulakari Falls and Bela Falls are the popular sites to visit. The perfect tourist spot for refreshment and to rejoice the nature. The tourist loves this place because of its natural beauty.
Best Lodges & Resorts in Congo:
- Mikeno Lodge in Virunga National Park
- Kibumba Lodge in Virunga National Park
- Bukima Tented Camp
- L’Orchids Safari Club at Kahuzi Biega National Park
- Pullman Kinshasa Grand Hotel
- Alima Palace Rainforest Resort
Precautions to take when visiting the Democratic Republic of Congo:
Visas
A visa is required for visitors planning to visit Congo. A tourist visa to Eastern Congo costs USD100 and can be obtained through a tour operator.
Health safety:
Health would be your highest priority. You must take complete medical care. Cholera and Ebola are prevalent in the Democratic Republic of Congo. You must take vaccinations before your trip to the middle of Africa.
- Standard vaccination – flu shots, mumps-measles-rubella, tetanus, and chickenpox vaccinations
- Yellow fever and malaria vaccinations
- Cholera vaccination
- Polio vaccination
- Other vaccinations – Hepatitis A, rabies, and typhoid.
Traveling safety:
Avoid to Travel the areas below due to criminal records in these areas:
- North Kivu and Ituri provinces
- Eastern Congo and the three Kasai provinces
Always take a guide with you wherever you are going to visit in Congo.