Home » Tips When Traveling in Congo, Congo Travel Tips, Travelling to Congo Guide

Tips When Traveling in Congo, Congo Travel Tips, Travelling to Congo Guide

Our official Congo travel tips are a must-read if you are planning essential travel to this amazing country. The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the largest countries on the African continent, lying in the fertile river basin of the mighty Congo River straddling the equator.

Tropical forests and steep mountains cover the country, especially in the north and west and volcanoes boom in the lake district of Kivu. Here, you find the imposing Nyiragongo Volcano in the heart of Virunga National Park, the oldest national park in Africa,

Virunga National Park is also a natural habitat for Mountain Gorillas and it is marked by many tourists as one of the best places to enjoy Gorilla trekking adventures. The Democratic Republic of Congo is thrilling with a biodiversity of wildlife species as some are common like Bonobos and Okapi.

Congo yields a bounty of mineral and agricultural wealth within a harsh and hostile African terrain. Due to much exploitation and poverty, it has led to unsettlement and bloody wars in some parts of the country.

Tourists visit areas of Goma for thrilling adventures though some parts of the country are not recommended due to the level of violence by armed groups in which civilians are targeted.

Visitors to the Democratic Republic of Congo are advised to check our latest essential travel advice before visiting.

Entry, Exit, and Visa Requirements

You need to know Congo’s current entry restrictions before you arrive in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This country decides who can enter or exit through its borders and all the information given is from the Congolese authorities, though it can change at any time.

Passport Validity

Always check your passport validity and it should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There is no additional period of validity beyond this is required.

The passport should at least have two blank pages where the immigration officials will put the stamp. Always check with your travel agent to ensure that your passport and other travel documents meet all the immigration requirements.

Passport for Official travel

You should know that different entry rules may apply. Follow our travel advice for more information.

Visas

Every traveler needs a visa to enter the Republic of the Congo and you can’t get one on arrival. You can always apply for the e-Visa and the application can take about 3 days. There is a tourist visa, Business visa, student visa, and transit visa.

Those who want to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo more than once can get a multiple-entry visa, especially those using the ferry service between Kinshasa and Brazzaville.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

Everyone needs a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to commence into the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Some airlines want proof of the yellow fever vaccination certificate before you leave.

If you are coming from other countries with a high risk of yellow fever, then immigration authorities will require proof of the Yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Border Measures

All international borders of the Republic of the Congo are open to international and domestic flights. However, border openings and other restrictions may change at short notice and you should avoid the border entry points from other countries like Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda due to insecurity in these border areas.

You may be subject to health screening and temperature checks, if you are vaccinated against Covid 19, then you are not subject to COVID-19 testing on arrival, and if not vaccinated against Covid 19, then you need a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours.

Currency Declaration

On arrival, all foreigners are required to declare all amounts of currency exceeding the equivalent of $10,000. They must also be declared when leaving the country.

Departure Tax

All air passengers departing the Democratic Republic of the Congo must pay an airport infrastructure development tax (IDEF) which is at $58. You must show proof of payment to be permitted to board your flight and you can pay at different banks or airports.

Health

This section of the travel advice has information on possible health risks and restrictions within the Democratic Republic of the Congo. You can follow our guide to lower the health risks of becoming ill when traveling.

Reach out to a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic if possible 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health care advice and recommendations and the relevant travel insurance to have.

Routine Vaccines

Make sure that your routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Congo. Some of the vaccinations include Diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, Polio, Tetanus, Influenza, Varicella, Pertussis, etc.

Pre-travel Vaccines and Medications

You can be at possible health risks for preventable diseases while traveling in this tourist destination country. Talk to a travel health professional in a travel health clinic about the medications or vaccines that may be right for you.

Below are some vaccinations you can have;

Hepatitis A and B
Yellow Fever – Country Entry Requirements
COVID-19
Polio
Measles
Rabies
Meningococcal disease
Influenza
Malaria

Safe Food and Water Precautions

Many illnesses are caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by toxins, bacteria, viruses, or parasites, or by swimming in contaminated water.

Remember to boil food before eating it, peel it, or just leave it. You should avoid getting water into your mouth, eyes, or nose when swimming in canals, lakes, or streams, especially after flooding.

Some of the diseases you can get are Travellers’ diarrhea, Cholera, Schistosomiasis, and Typhoid.

Insect Bite Prevention

Several diseases are spread by bites of infected insects like ticks, mosquitoes, flies, or fleas. When traveling to places with infected insects, use insect repellent on your skin, sleep under a treated mosquito net, and cover up with light-colored and loose clothes.

Mostly find out the types of insects present in the parts you are traveling to, when they are most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal Precautions

Diseases like Influenza and Rabies can be shared between humans and animals. However, certain types of activities may increase direct contact with an infected animal like traveling in rural or forested areas, hiking, camping, and visiting wet markets, especially where they slaughter animals.

You should be curious to avoid contact with infected animals like dogs, pigs, cows, monkeys, rodents, snakes, birds, and bats, and you should avoid eating uncooked wild game. The diseases you can contract are the plague and Mpox.

Person-to-person Infections

You should stay home when you are sick and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette, like sneezing or coughing into a tissue, or bend your arm. Remember to wash your hands, avoid crowded places or closed spaces, and avoid contact with people showing symptoms of illness.

There are also sexually transmitted infections like HIV and Mpox spread through blood and bodily fluids.

Always use condoms, limit your number of sexual partners, and practice safe sex. Also, be mindful of Tuberculosis and Ebola disease which is a severe disease.

Medical Services and Facilities

There are new medical facilities in Kinshasa that offer adequate care with a few exceptions, medical equipment and health care services are basic. The medical facilities or medical services are inadequate throughout the remote locations of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

If you travel beyond Kinshasa, you will need medical evacuation insurance for any serious illness, surgery, or injury though such medical evacuation insurance is expensive and requires payment upfront.

Not all medical treatment (medical equipment) is available in the Republic of the Congo and if you plan to bring medication, check if it’s legal in the Republic of the Congo. You can take enough legal medical treatment (medical equipment) for your trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Other Health Risks

Be aware of other health risks like Monkey pox and other diseases transmitted to humans from animals like rodents, monkeys, and squirrels.

Always avoid contact with rodents and primates, avoid travel in areas with people infected with monkeypox, and don’t come in touch with an infected person, especially with bodily fluids. Get the necessary vaccinations for the diseases that you may be worried about.

Ebola

Tourists should be aware that there are a few cases of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in Mbandaka city and Equateur province in northwestern DRC as it is a deadly disease.

Avoid large crowds and any people with Ebola symptoms, always follow the WHO website for updates concerning Ebola and guidance that you can follow not to be a victim of this deadly disease.

Safety and Security

The security situation in the Republic of the Congo is volatile. The situation in Congo is unpredictable and can deteriorate suddenly.

Civil Unrest and Political Tension

There are over 130 active armed groups in eastern DRC. The armed conflict situation has caused deaths and displacement of civilians and there are ongoing conflicts between local groups and government forces.

Many local non-government organizations have suspended operations in North Kivu province and South Kivu due to the security situation from armed groups with many cases of civil unrest.

Take caution against the unrest and monitor local media, avoid affected areas, follow advice from local authorities, and keep adequate supplies of food, water, food, medical treatment, and cash.

Demonstrations and Protests

These events bring large groups of people and can turn violent and security incidents can occur in Kinshasa like riots, attacks on vehicles, and demonstrations. This can lead to the closure of some roads without any notice.

Also, flights can be disrupted and you can protect yourself from demonstrations if you monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities so that you stay up to date with the latest bulletin.

Provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu

The North Kivu province remains unstable. There were peace signings with UN forces, though an armed conflict continues in some areas of this destination country. Many armed groups continue to loot and commit violent crimes against civilians like kidnapping, rape, and armed assault.

Congolese armed forces assist UN forces to fight armed groups and a joint military operation between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda is underway in North Kivu province and Ituri provinces to fight rebels in the region.

However, in Goma, authorities are on high alert and they have put an increased military presence in the city.

Eastern DRC

Travelers should avoid travel in eastern DRC as it is not a secure location as there is a continued presence of armed groups with an ongoing threat and they clash with Congolese armed forces who are backed by the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission.

The affected provinces are Maniema, Ituri, Tanganyika, North Kivu Province, and South Kivu.

Garamba National Park and Border Areas with South Sudan and Uganda

Although there are joint militia operations of the Ugandan, Congolese, and South Sudanese armed forces, the Lord’s Resistance Army continues to commit acts of violence against civilians and there is still an ongoing threat in areas at the border of South Sudan.

Many people have been displaced and killed within the region.

Points of Entry from Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda

Avoid travel in entry areas from Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda as there is continuous insecurity and lawlessness and they are not a secure location. Of now, the Republic of the Congo borders with Rwanda and Burundi can be closed on short notice due to the ongoing threat of armed groups.

Border crossings between Congo and Rwanda at Bukavu and Goma are closed from 6 pm to 6 am.

Terrorism

There are threats of terrorism in the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially towards the border with Uganda, in the vicinity of Boga in Ituri, and the region of Beni-Butembo and Goma in North Kivu province.

Government targets occur frequently like on government buildings, places of worship, other transportation hubs, and public areas like bars, markets, major hotels, restaurants, and other sites.

You need to always be aware of your surroundings when in public areas, monitor local media, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Crime

There is violent crime and pickpocketing in both urban and rural areas, particularly after nightfall in crowded public areas and on public transportation. Be cautious, as there are locals who pose as local police (security personnel) and stop motorists to extract money.

You should avoid walking alone and getting in vehicles with strangers even if they identify themselves as local police officers. Always keep your vehicle doors and windows locked at all times.

Keep on main highways, don’t park in unsupervised areas, and do not stop at the scene of an accident or crowded area as there are always cases of violent crime.

Kidnappings

There are kidnappings for ransom in the provinces of Maniema, North Kivu province, and South Kivu, like Goma and other rural areas, occur regularly. Foreigners can be targeted and you need to be cautious about where you travel.

Curfews

These can be imposed without notice and you need to comply with the directives issued by local authorities.

ATMS

There are ATMs in the major cities where you can withdraw money and they are very high as you can withdraw significant amounts in one transaction. Be careful as thieves target foreigners who withdraw money from ATMs.

Checkpoints

Expect to meet several increased checkpoints at night, particularly in Gombe, around Camp Kokolo, and in Kintambo, Mont Ngafula, Limete, Ngaba, Ngaliema, and N’Djili.

Carry government-issued identification like a driver’s license at all times and comply with local authorities’ instructions. If an officer approaches you, then you can show him/her credentials. Do not move until the security forces permit you.

Piracy

There can be pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships in coastal waters and this is why mariners should take full precautions. If you suspect any piracy, report to the International Maritime Bureau.

General Security Information

Tourism facilities are limited in Kinshasa and do exist outside the capital city, and this is why you need to plan your vacation in time to reduce the risk to your safety. If you are landing at the airport, ensure that someone is waiting for you on arrival. You should know that telephone communication in Congo is poor.

Local Travel

This section of our travel advice helps you know how to keep safe when traveling in the Republic of the Congo and the possible ways to travel.

Road Safety

You should know that most roads in the Republic of the Congo are in poor maintenance and some are impassable, especially in the rainy season. Our travel advice is that you will be required to have a 4×4 vehicle even in some parts of Kinshasa.

Some roads are paved and there is an increased risk of being in an accident as the vehicles are poorly maintained. You should know that some drivers are aggressive and local authorities may try to confiscate your identity documents in an attempt to extract a bribe.

You need to check with the authorities to see if you need to get prior authorization in the Republic of the Congo.

Public Transportation

When traveling in the Democratic Republic of Congo, avoid the public transportation system as the routes are not noticeably posted and the vehicles are mostly overcrowded. There are many old vans in poor conditions and they are still in circulation, especially in rural areas.

Not all taxis are marked and they don’t meet the road safety measures and this means that you should only use officially recognized taxis. You can always hire private transportation services from some hotels.

Many tourists can enjoy self-drives when they rent a car from travel agencies without a driver.

Avoid all travel by train as the rail services are unsafe, there are many delays because of the poor state of the rail lines and mechanical issues, and the trains of rail services are also overcrowded and can be occupied by thieves.

The ferry links are mostly used by the local population and you should avoid it as it is mostly overcrowded and you need to line up early to secure a spot. There are options for using smaller motorboats.

Official Motorcades

Presidential and other official motorcades pose risks to road users like motorists and pedestrians. When on the road, you should pull over when sirens or security forces specify a convoy.

Avoid taking photographs of convoys using communication devices that are not registered in the Republic of the Congo like walktalkies and cell phones. Only continue with your journey when security forces permit you to do so.

Airport Access

If there is any crisis, N’Djili International Airport in Kinshasa capital city can be closed without notice. Government buildings like the parliament building are situated on the road to the airport and when there are demonstrations, the road can be blocked off making it hard to access the airport.

Boat Travel

River crossing in Kinshasa can be closed without any notice. You should know that the ferry stops running in late afternoon and expect on services of the ferry on Sundays. Before traveling, check the situation.

Road Travel

The road conditions are usually poor and worsen during the wet season. If you are going for overland travel off the main roads, you will require a 4×4 vehicle. Always lock the doors and windows of your vehicle and watch out for armed gangs who may target you. Avoid driving off the main routes and avoid unsupervised areas, especially rural areas.

Expect frequent vehicle checkpoints throughout the Republic of the Congo, though they can be poorly marked. When the officials ask for your documents, you need to produce these documents for inspection through a closed window keeping the vehicle doors locked.

Air Travel

Get the right airlines that fly to the Democratic Republic of Congo though foreign domestic airlines should meet the international safety standards. Ndjili International Airport in Kinshasa the capital city receives all flights though in case of any civil unrest, it can lead to flight cancellations.

The local immigration and customs at the airport are difficult and you may require help and assistance from people familiar with the process. Arrange pickup on arrival at the airport and pay attention to your safety and security when in and around the airport.

Most local airlines have poor maintenance and international safety standards.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

You should abide by the local laws of the Republic of the Congo so that you are not arrested or detained.

Identity Checks

The local authorities can ask you to present your passport and visa at any time and you are advised to remain calm and cooperative. If you fail to comply, it may result in detention or deportation.

You should always keep your original passport in a secure place or carry a copy with you.

Drugs

Expect heavy fines and prison time if convicted of possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs.

Photographs

You should avoid taking photographs in public areas like N’Djili International Airport in Kinshasa. If convicted, you can be detained for questioning or arrested since you would have broken a local law.

Driving

Travelers in the Republic of the Congo who are driving should always carry an International Driving Permit and follow all the local traffic laws.

Other Traffic Laws

Pedestrians and motorists are required to stop for the raising and the lowering of the national flag at 7:30 am and 6 pm every day. If you fail to comply, military personnel or local police (security personnel) can detain you and you can receive heavy fines for breaking the local law.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in the Democratic Republic of Congo. If local authorities know that you are a citizen of Congo, yet you have other citizenship, then different entry requirements may apply.

Money

The national currency of the Republic of the Congo is the Congolese franc (CDF). However, many payments can be made in foreign currency, especially US dollars. All foreign currency should be in good condition and dollars should be printed after 2009.

Certain shops, major hotels, restaurants, and major stores accept credit cards though some parts of the country don’t accept credit cards. You should always move with some money with you so that you use it for tips and buying a few souvenirs.

There are also ATMs where you can withdraw cash in advance using your credit cards. However, you need to contact your bank to see if the card works in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Natural Disasters and Climate

You should know the weather in the Republic of the Congo is unpredictable.

Rainy Season

The rainy season extends from April to October in the north and from November to March in the south. Landslides and flash flooding can occur in some periods and can harshly disrupt essential services or emergency services.

In case you are traveling in affected areas, exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Volcanoes

Expect volcanic eruptions in some parts of the Republic of the Congo. Mount Nyiragongo is located on the edges of Goma and it is one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

This volcano last erupted in May 2021 leading to the destruction of infrastructure and resulting in many casualties.

In case you are moving near an active volcano, exercise caution, respect official warnings, monitor local broadcasts so that you stay up to date with the latest developments and volcanic activity levels, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Best Places to Visit in Congo

There are many amazing places you can visit in the Republic of the Congo though most of these are national parks having thrilling attractions and offering many remarkable activities.

Virunga National Park

Virunga Park is a top destination in Congo known for having Mountain Gorillas.

It offers Gorilla trekking safaris among the habituated gorilla families. Virunga National Park also has the famous Nyiragongo Volcano, an active volcano with a boiling lava lake that you can see on the volcano’s summit.

Kahuzi Biega National Park

Kahuzi Beiaga Park is situated in eastern DRC and it is the best place for trekking the Eastern Lowland Gorillas. This means that the Republic of the Congo has two subspecies of gorillas. This park also has other wildlife species, especially primates and bird species in their natural beauty.

Mount Nyiragongo (active volcano) is situated in the heart of Virunga National Park and it is an active volcano having the world’s largest Crater Lake. Tourists can hike the volcano for great adventures and amazing sightings, especially the natural beauty of Virunga National Park.

Salongo National Park holds many rare species of wildlife rarely seen in other parts of the world.

Other destinations to visit in Congo include;

Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary
Kahuzi Beiga National Park
Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Center
Garamba National Park
Livingstone Waterfalls on the Congo River
Lake Kivu Shared with Rwanda

Safari Activities to Do in Congo | Things to Do in the Democratic Republic of Congo?

Tourists on Congo safaris can enjoy many activities when in the country and these are mostly enjoyed within the national parks and other designated places in eastern provinces.

Below are some of the top activities to enjoy in DRC;

Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park
Hiking Mount Nyiragongo Volcano in Virunga National Park
Lowland Gorilla trekking in Kahuzi Biega National Park
Bird watching in most national parks
Boat cruises on Lake Kivu
Visiting Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
Exploring the Lwizo Primate’s Rehabilitation Centre
Exploring the Congo River

Accommodation in Congo | Where to Stay in Congo?

Tourists should not worry about where to stay when on Congo safaris and there are accommodation facilities near most tourist destinations offering amazing facilities and services.

They are categorized into budget, midrange, and luxury accommodation.

Below are some of the accommodation facilities in Congo;

Orchids Safari Club
Mikeno Lodge
Lulimbi Tented Camp
Bukima Tented Camp
Lac Kivu Lodge
Kibumba Camp
Nyiragongo Summit Shelter
Ihusi Hotel
Mikeno Lodge
Tchengera Island Camp

What Should I Pack for Congo?

Our official Congo travel advice helps you with the essential items that you can pack for your travel. There are many things to pack though be cautious and travel light so that you don’t have much baggage.

Below are some of the things to pack when traveling to Congo;

Valid Passport
A good camera with extra batteries and memory cards
A pair of Binoculars
Insect repellent
Daypack
Sunscreen
Personal Medical treatment supplies
Flashlights
International plug adapter
Toiletries
Swimsuit
First aid kit

What to Wear When Traveling in Congo?

When in the Congo, you need to wear decently depending on the weather conditions.

Below are some of the clothes or wear you can pack for your safari in Congo;

Khaki/neutral-colored clothing
Comfortable hiking shoes
Shoes for evening wear
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Casual clothes for evenings
Warm jumper – so good in cool evenings
A hat or cap
Sunglasses
Lightweight wool socks
Gloves

Best Time to Visit DR Congo

Tourists can visit the Democratic Republic of Congo at any time of the year though the best to visit depends on your interests and the activities to engage in. The Republic of the Congo has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

The dry season is from June to September and also from December to February and this is the best time for those going for Gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing, and hiking as the tracks are dry and easy to access.

Tourists should know that the rainy season is from March to May and from October to November and this is the best time to enjoy bird watching and watching the waterfalls to the fullest.

However, when there are heavy rains, the roads can become impassable leading to delays in reaching your destination. All in all, our travel advice suggests the best time to visit would be in the dry season especially if going for Gorilla trekking and hiking.

What Do I Need to Know Before Going to Congo?

Before traveling to the Republic of the Congo, you should know the entry and exit requirements.
Know about the local laws and special circumstances.
You should get the right vaccinations for your trip.
It is better to purchase travel insurance inclusive of medical insurance.
Avoid crowded places for your safety.
Do not travel in unsupervised places especially when alone.
Always drink bottled water only, you should avoid tap water.
Carry a copy of your passport and visa for identification at all times.
Keep the doors of your hotel locked at all times so that your valuables are safe.
Always carry contact information with you

Can US citizens go to Congo?

Yes, US citizens can go to the Republic of the Congo as long as they have a valid passport and a valid visa like a tourist visa, and also the required vaccinations. US citizens should use consular assistance to know all the entry requirements to Congo.

How Can We Stay Safe in Congo?

You can stay safe in the Republic of the Congo by avoiding crowds and protests near government buildings.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent, follow the local laws, avoid displaying cash and other valuables as they call for thieves, never leave food and drinks unattended to, avoid walking in isolated places, and always follow instructions from your guide and read our travel advice.

It is also better to purchase travel insurance to guide you in travel emergencies and you should have direct contact with the embassy for consular assistance.

Is Congo Tourist Friendly?

The eastern province of Congo near Lake Kivu is tourist friendly though there can be volatile security situation issues and an increased risk of kidnapping. If careful, you can enjoy Gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park and hiking Nyiragongo volcano without any inconveniences.

Read more of the security situation and safety section for more information on our travel advice.

What Is the Biggest Problem In Congo?

The biggest problem in the Republic of the Congo is the violent crime from armed groups like armed robbery, armed home invasion, and assault. The Republic of the Congo has nearly 7 million people who have been internally displaced due to threats of violent crime, poverty, and mining expansion.

Is It Safe to Travel to the Congo Now?

Eastern DRC parts are safe to travel to on an African safari as per our travel advice. However, tourists should avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo due to the current political and security situation and keep caution of personal security.

Is Congo Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Congo is generally taken to be safe for solo female travelers, though, it is important to take certain precautions. Our essential travel advice guides Female travelers to avoid walking at night alone on isolated streets and they should dress decently to avoid unwanted attention and be cautious of personal security.

Also, they should be aware of their surroundings and trust their instincts.

In summary, our Congo travel advice will give you all the necessary information that you need to know when planning your essential travel to the Republic of the Congo.

You get to know the best places to explore in the Republic of the Congo, the entry and exit requirements, local laws, health care requirements, security situation, and safety, and the necessary clothes to pack before you travel.

Reach Out to Us If You Have Any Inquiry Concerning Our Congo Travel Advice