Let us look into a detailed overview of the most popular tourist sites in Congo!
Incredible Wildlife Reserves and National Parks in Congo
Congo has several big game parks that are considered popular places to visit in Congo and are home to rare gorillas, okapi, and other unique wildlife species in Africa.
1) Virunga National Park—The Most Visited National Park
Virunga National Park is Africa’s oldest national park, established in 1925. It’s renowned for its incredible biodiversity, hosting 25% of the world’s remaining wild mountain gorillas, African forest elephants, chimpanzees, okapi, and eastern lowland gorillas.
Visitors can hike Mount Nyiragongo, explore lush forests, and enjoy gorilla trekking, game drives, and birding. With over 2,000 plant species and 706 bird species (Congo peafowl), the park offers stunning landscapes and diverse cultures, with various accommodations available, like Mikeno Lodge.
2) Kahuzi Biega National Park
Kahuzi Biega National Park, a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of Africa’s oldest national parks, is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Grauer’s gorilla), chimpanzees, and over 1,000 plant species.
Established in 1970 by Adrien Deschryver, the park was initially created in 1937 as the Zoological and Forest Reserve of Mount Kahuzi.
The park offers gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, hiking, and birdwatching. With 136 mammal species, 349 bird species (Congo peafowl), and 147 fish species, the park is a hotspot for biodiversity.
3) Garamba National Park-A Unesco World Heritage Site
Garamba National Park, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is a 5,200 km² protected area in the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Established in 1938, Garamba National Park is home to amazing animal life i.e 138 mammal species, including elephants, giraffes, and hippos, among other wildlife species.
Poaching has threatened the park’s wildlife, with significant declines in elephants, giraffes, and the last known population of white rhinos.
Conservation efforts are ongoing, with African Parks managing the Garamba National Park since 2005. The park is also an Important Bird Area, with 286 recorded bird species
4) Salonga National Park
A UNESCO Heritage site spans 36,000 square kilometers within the River Congo Basin.
Its dense tropical rainforests harbor remarkable creatures, including Congo peafowl, African forest elephants, bonobos, Salonga monkeys, Tshuapa red colobus monkeys, okapi, and the African slender-snouted crocodile.
Despite being listed as a World Heritage site in danger due to civil wars and poaching, Salonga remains a significant tourist destination for its extensive forests and biodiversity.
5) Okapi Wildlife Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage site covers ~14,000 sq km in the DR Congo’s Ituri forest. It’s home to the elusive okapi, found only in Congo, and offers remarkable scenery, waterfalls, and cultural encounters with Mbuti pygmies.
Other Congo National Parks and Reserves That Are Must-Visit Tourist Sites Include:
| · Kundelungu NP | · Lomami NP |
| · Maiko National Park | · Odzala-Kokoua NP |
| · Salonga National Park (36,000 km²) | · Upemba NP |
| · Bomu Wildlife Reserve (6,542 km²) | · Abumonbazi Nature Reserve (5,726 km²) |
| · Itombwe Nature Reserve (6,009 km²) | · Kisimba Ikobo Primate Nature Reserve (963 km2) |
| · Lake Tshangalele Nature Reserve (447 km²) | · Lomako-Yokokala Nature Reserve (3,602 km2) |
| · Mangai Nature Reserve (1,903 km²) | · Mangrove Nature Reserve (1,000 km²) |
| · Ngiri Triangle Nature Reserve (5,500 km²) | · N’Sele Nature Reserve (34 km²) |
| · Sankuru Nature Reserve | · Tayna Nature Reserve (893 km²) |
| · Tumba-Lediima Nature Reserve (7,412 km²) | · Lufira Biosphere Reserve (687 km²) |
| · Luki Biosphere Reserve (311 km²) | · Yangambi Biosphere Reserve (2,215 km²) |
| · Lyondji Bonobo Community Reserve (1,030 km²) | · Bili-Uere Hunting Reserve (32,748 km²) |
| · Bombo Lumene Hunting Reserve (2,168 km2) | · Bomu Hunting Reserve (4,126 km²) |
| · Bushimaie Hunting Reserve (4,369 km²) | · Gangala-na-Bodio Hunting Reserve (9,829 km²) |
| · Luama-Katanga Hunting Reserve (2,308 km²) | · Luama-Kivu Hunting Reserve (3,900 km²) |
| · Lubudi-Sampwe Hunting Reserve (3,489 km²) | · Maika-Penge Hunting Reserve (1,499 km²) |
| · Rubi-Tele Hunting Reserve (6,191 km²) | · Rutshuru Hunting Reserve (661 km²) |
| · Swa-Kibula Hunting Reserve (1,004 km²) | · Lufira Valley Biosphere Reserve (147 km²) |
| · Luki Forest Reserve (330 km²) | · Yangambi Biosphere Reserve (2,350 km²) |
| · Lufira Basin (Ramsar site, 44,710 km²) | · Mangroves NP (Ramsar site, 660 km²) |
| · Ngiri-Tumba-Maindombe (Ramsar site, 65,696 km²) | |
Book an African safari today and explore these popular places to visit in Congo for memorable safari experiences!
Outstanding Wildlife Sanctuaries in Congo
These sanctuaries, as listed below, provide a haven for rescued and orphaned animals and play a crucial role in conservation efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
| . Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary—A sanctuary for orphaned bonobos, located near Kinshasa. |
| . Okapi Wildlife Reserve’s Okapi Breeding Centre—A sanctuary for elusive okapis |
| . Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage—The only mountain gorilla orphanage for orphaned mountain gorillas, located in Virunga Park. |
| . J.A.C.K Sanctuary (Jeunes Animal Confisques au Katanga)—a sanctuary dedicated to stopping the illegal trade of great apes, especially western lowland gorillas hunted for bushmeat, located in the Virunga Mountains. |
| . Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary—A home for orphaned chimpanzees and monkey species |
| Tchimpounga Sanctuary—A haven for orphaned chimpanzees rescued from bush meat hunters and the black market by the Jane Goodall Foundation, offering rehabilitation and sanctuary |
| . Kokolopori Bonobo Reserve – Home to 1,000-1,800+ orphaned bonobos, making it one of the highest-known populations supporting scientific research on bonobo behavior. |
| . The Dian Fossey Gorilla FundSanctuary—aal Congo Sanctuary– A sanctuary for eastern lowland gorilla orphans, located in the Virunga Mountains. |
| . Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE)—Sanctuary for rescued Grauer’s gorillas from bush meat poachers |
Book an African safari and visit these best places to visit in Congo for unique safari experiences!
Fascinating Waterfalls, Lakes, and Rivers in Congo
The nation boasts an abundance of water bodies that are considered good places to visit in Congo, including the Congo River and Lake Kivu, with 62% of the Congo Basin and one of Africa’s highest volumes of fresh water when on safari tours.
1) Lake Kivu
Kivu Lake, a freshwater lake in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, is a unique ecosystem with 28+ fish species, e.g., Nile tilapia, and diverse natural resources.
It offers scenic drives, water sports, fishing, and relaxation, and is a vital source of food and income for local communities.
Visitors can enjoy boat tours, island-hopping, water sports, and outdoor activities when visiting Congo on safaris.
There Are Over 70+ Additional Lakes in Congo, Including:
| Lake Albert | Lake Edward |
| Lake Mai-Ndombe | Lake Tanganyika |
| Lake Tumba | Lake Upemba |
| Lake Mweru | Over 60 other smaller lakes. |
2) Congo River
The Congo River, formerly the Zaire River, is Africa’s second-longest river and the world’s deepest recorded river.
The Congo River stretches 4,700 km through six countries, supporting incredible biodiversity and hydroelectric power.
The Congo River tributaries include the Lualaba, Kasai, Ubangi, Lomami, Aruwimi, Itimbiri, Mongala, and Lulonga rivers.
The Congo River crosses the equator twice and is home to over 713 species of fish, crocodiles, hippos, and birds.
Other 98+ Rivers in Congo Include:
| Aruwimi River (1,030 km) | Chiloango River (160 km) |
| Ikelemba River (200 km) | Kasai River (2,153 km) |
| Kwango River (1,100 km) | Lomami River (1,280 km) |
| Lulonga River (200 km) | Loile River (227 km) |
| Sankuru River (1,200 km) | Ubangi River (1,060 km) |
| Uele River (1,210 km) | Lualaba River (upper Congo River) among several others |
| |
3) The Incredible Waterfalls in Congo
| 1. Boyoma Falls | Stanley Falls—A series of seven falls on the Congo River that stretch over 100 km, with a total drop of about 60 meters |
| 2. Inga Falls – The largest waterfall in the world by volume |
| 3. Livingstone Falls—A series of cataracts on the Congo River |
| 4. Lofoi Falls—A scenic waterfall in the Virunga Park |
| 5. Loufoulakari Falls—Abreathtaking waterfall in the Congo River basin |
| 6. Mambatuta Falls—A picturesque waterfall in the Kivu region |
| 7. Mambilima Falls—A tranquil waterfall in the Kivu region |
| 8. Petites Chutes de la Lukaya—A series of small waterfalls on the Lukaya River |
| 9. Yellala Falls – A stunning waterfall on the Congo River |
| 10. Zongo Falls—A notable waterfall near the Congo River |
Contact a reputable safari operator to customize your safari package to most of these amazing places to visit in Congo when on African safaris!
The Glorious Forest of Congo
The jungle in Congo is another of the mesmerizing places to visit when on African wilderness safaris for a memorable experience, e.g.,
The Congo Rainforest
The Congo River Basin Forest, spanning 2 million square kilometers across six central African countries, including Congo Brazzaville, DRC, etc., is the world’s second-largest tropical rainforest. It’s home to incredible biodiversity, including western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and okapi.
With over 10,000 plant and animal species, the Congo Basin rainforest supports local livelihoods, regulates the climate, and produces oxygen, which has been termed the ‘lungs of Africa.’.
However, it’s threatened by deforestation, prompting conservation efforts by organizations like WWF and initiatives like CAFI to protect this vital ecosystem.
Additional Awe-Inspiring Forests in Congo Include:
- The Ituri Rainforest in the northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo covers 63,000 km², home to diverse wildlife, Mbuti pygmies, and the Okapi Wildlife Reserve.
- Mayombe Forest spans four countries on the wild coast, hosting diverse wildlife amidst lush mountains, including chimps, gorillas, and manatees.
- The Bili Forest, a vast ecosystem in northeastern DRC, spans over 40,000 square kilometers and includes diverse wildlife like chimpanzees, elephants, and lions.
Visit the Democratic Republic of Congo today and explore these good places to visit when on African wilderness safaris!
Towering Mountains in Congo
Discover the nation’s unique mountains on safari, such as the Virunga’s active volcanoes, Rwenzori’s highest peaks, Mitumba’s rugged landscapes, and Crystal’s geological wonders, each offering breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and hiking opportunities, which makes them some of the best places to visit in Congo. These include:
Mount Nyiragongo Volcano
Mount Nyiragongo, a 3,470m active volcano in Virunga National Park, features the world’s largest lava lake. With 34 eruptions since 1882, it’s a closely monitored site.
Visitors can hike to the summit, explore lava tubes, and witness the breathtaking lava lake, with tickets costing $300 per person for a two-day climb, including overnight cabins.
Other Notable Mountains in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Congo Brazzaville
| Mount Stanley (5,109 m) – Rwenzori Range | M.t Speke (4,890 m) – Rwenzori Range |
| M.t Baker (4,844 m) – Rwenzori Range | Mount Emin (4,798 m) – Rwenzori Range |
| Mount Ngaliema (5,071 m) – Rwenzori Range | M.t Karisimbi (4,507 m) – Virunga Mountains |
| Nyiragongo Volcano (3,470 m) – Virunga Mountains | Mount Nyamuragira (3,058 m) – Virunga Mountains |
| Mount Bisoke—Virunga Mountains | M.t Mikeno—Virunga Mountains |
| M.t Sabyinyo—One of the two extinct two volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains | Mount Gahinga—Virunga Mountains |
| Mount Kahuzi | M.t Hoyo |
| M.t Mangengenge | Mount Mohi |
| Mount Hehu | Mitumba Mountains |
| Crystal Mountains | |
Contact a reputable safari operator to book a safari trip to Congo and explore these tourist places today!
Remarkable Tourism Cities in Congo
The top tourist cities that complement the Congo tourism industry by hosting some of the most outstanding tourist destinations include Kinshasa, Goma, and L. Kivu towns, Bas Congo cities, and wild coast towns, among others.
These cities provide avenues for tourists to, for example, visit Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake, trek gorillas (the great apes) in Virunga National Park, and explore the National Museum in Goma.
They offer a mix of culture, adventure, and natural wonders, and they are listed below.
1) Kinshasa
Kinshasa, the vibrant capital city of Congo, offers a mix of cultural, natural, entertaining (Congolese music bases), and historical attractions, including the National Museum of Kinshasa, Palais de la Nation, Marché Central, Musée National de Kinshasa, Académie des Beaux-Arts, among other historical buibuildings.
Others include the Nôtre Dame Cathedral, Église Ste Anne, Jardin Botanique de Kisantu, Chutes du Zongo, Chutes de Lukaya, Kinkole Fish Market, Lola Ya Bonobo, Serpents du Congo, Laurent Kabila’s Tomb, and Palais du Peuple that are worth visiting when on Congo safaris.
2) Goma City
Goma, located on Lake Kivu’s shores, offers vibrant local markets, the Goma Cathedral, lake boat tours, water sports, and stunning views, while also serving as a gateway to Virunga National Park and Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake.
Additional Key Cities in Congo Brazzaville and DRC
| Lubumbashi: Second-largest city, with a rich cultural heritage and fascinating sites like the Valle de La Lufira. |
| Kisangani: A historic city with colonial architecture, Kisangani Cathedral, and scenic Congo River views. |
| Mbandaka: A fascinating town on the Congo River, with nearby game parks and reserves. |
| Bukavu: A beautiful town on Lake Kivu, with nearby Kahuzi Biega National Park. |
| Uvira: A lakeside town with beautiful views of Lake Tanganyika. |
| Matadi: A historic port city with colonial architecture and scenic river views. |
| Tshinga: A picturesque village in the Kivu region with stunning views. |
| Pointe-Noire: Famous for the Conkouati-Douli National Park, Diosso Gorge, and stunning beaches |
Book a safari tour today and explore these must-visit tourist cities in Congo today!
Ceremonial Museums, Religious Cultural and Historical Sites in Congo
These listed below are some of the tourist sites in Congo you can visit when on a safari tour for a memorable safari experience.
| RELIGIOUS SITES | MUSEUMS |
| · Nôtre Dame Cathedral or The Roman Catholic Cathedral | · National Museum of the Democratic Republic of Congo |
| · Église Ste Anne | · National Museum of Lubumbashi |
| · Goma Cathedral in Goma | · Kinshasa National Museum |
| · Chapel of the American Baptist Missionary Society | · Institute of National Museums of Congo |
| · Mosque of Kinshasa | · Museum of Modern Art |
| · Grand Mosque of Kisangani | · Goma Museum |
| · Catholic Archdiocese of Lubumbashi | · Kisangani Museum |
| CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL SITES |
| Grand Marché |
| Académie des Beaux-Arts |
| Palais de la Nation |
| Jardin Botanique de Kisantu |
| Marché Central |
| Kinkole Fish Market |
| Goma Cathedral |
| Kisangani’s Belgian colonial-era architecture |
| Lubumbashi’s colonial architecture |
| Tomb of Patrice Lumumba |
| Laurent Kabila’s Tomb |
| Leopold II’s statue |
| Grottes de Dimba et Ngovo (caves) |
| Grottes de Matupi (caves) |
| Dépression de l’Upemba (Upemba Depression) |
| Parc National de la Lomami |
Contact a reputable operator today to customize an itinerary for you to see these unique places to visit in Congo when on safari!
Popular Tourist Beaches and Islands in Congo
WheIf you’re seeking a relaxing and hilly atmosphere to bask in the sun and appreciate the beauty of the Democratic Republic of Congo, it’s essential to include an island and beach on your list of must-see tourist destinations in Congo.These are listed below.
Idjwi Island
Idjwi Island, Africa’s second-largest lake island, offers a tranquil escape from modernity. With a rich culture, stunning Lake Kivu scenery, and opportunities for island hopping, hiking, and biking, the island is a hidden gem accessible by speedboat from Bukavu or Goma.
Other Famous Islandislands,hegera Island, Île deÎleeba, Sumba Island, Kavala Island, Eboro Island, and Elima Island Island,others others,ffer opportunities for sightsesightseeing,boastinboostingongo safaris.
Discover The Stuthenstunningsbeaches Democratic Republic of Congo, featuring popular spots like Plage Mondaine, Plage Du Peuple, Mvassa Beach, Muanda Beach, and Pointe Indienne, among others others,ng a range of experiences from surfing and family-friendly activities to relaxing on pristine white sand shores.
Don’t miss out on the fun, bofun; tour to these fascinating tourist destinations in Congo for an amazing experience!
1. Where Is Congo (DRC)?
The nation is located in central Africa, bordered by the Republic of the Congo to the west, the Central African Republic and South Sudan to the north, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania to the east, and Zambia and Angola to the south.
Virunga National Park and Nyiragongo Volcano are two of the most famous attractions found only in Central Africa.
3. Is Congo Good for Tourists? | Can US Citizens Go to Congo? | Is Congo Tourist Friendly? | Is the Congo Safe?
The Democratic Republic of Congo is a challenging yet rewarding tourist destination, offering breathtaking nature’s beauty and rich cultural heritage, with the warm hospitality of the Congolese people making it a potentially safe and enjoyable experience for tourists.
However, if visiting Eastern Congo wCongo,militia groups exist, it is important to take necessary precautions and hire an experienced private guide or armed ranger.
4. What Is Congo Most Famous For? |What Is DRC Most Famous For?
DR Congo is most famous for its incredible natural wonders, including its active volcanoes, forests, and wildlife, as well as its rich cultural heritage.
5. Why Do Tourists Visit the Congo?
Tourists primarily visit the Congo (Democratic Republic of Congo) to experience its unique wildlife, particularly the opportunity to trek and see endangered gorillas in their natural habitat, as well as other rare animals like the Okapi and eastern lowland gorillas, alongside its diverse rainforests and stunning landscapes.
6. Which is the tourist center in Congo?
Kinshasa, the capital city, is a hub for tourists, with many attractions and facilities.
In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of Congo is a country with exciting tourist places to visit, encompassing rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking natural wonders.
From the Virunga National Park to the shores of Lake Kivu, there are countless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and discovery. Book your Congo safari now and experience all these firsthand!
