This is a detailed overview of Congo tourist activities!
Partake in Gorilla Trekking | Virunga National Park | Kahuzi Biega National Park
Gorilla trekking is one of the best things to do in Congo, offering an unforgettable experience and allowing you to encounter majestic mountain gorillas and western and eastern lowland gorillas, the main attraction in the country, in their natural habitats.
Along the way, spot other incredible attractions, including okapi, antelope species, chimpanzees, forest elephants, monkeys, and over 700 bird types.
The popular gorilla tracking spots in the DRC include Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site (200+ mountain gorillas), and Kahuzi Biega National Park (~200 eastern lowland gorillas), among other national parks that also promote the conservation of these individuals.
However, if interested in trekking with western lowland gorillas, you need to tour Odzala National Park of the Brazzaville, home to over 100,000 individuals found in the forests and other national parks for conservation purposes.
For a successful gorilla trek, plan to explore during the dry season (June-September) or shoulder season (April-May or September-November).
Book permits in advance and ensure you’re at least 15 years old and physically fit.
Pack essentials like long pants, waterproof boots, and a day pack, and be prepared for a challenging yet breathtaking experience in the forests.
Book your Congo gorilla safaris today for memorable safari experiences!
Go for a Mount Nyiragongo Hike
This is another of the famous things to do in Congo when on African safaris.
Hiking Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano in Virunga National Park in the Albertine Rift Valley in the eastern part of DRC, offers a unique safari adventure.
The 1,300-meter-high volcano features the world’s largest lava lake. Hikers can spend a night on the summit, witnessing the boiling lava.
Mount Nyiragongo is infamous for its destructive lava lake and fast-moving lava flows, which have caused devastating eruptions, including the 2002 Goma disaster that destroyed parts of the city, displaced 200,000 people, and claimed around 250 lives.
The hike is challenging due to loose rocks, steep slopes, and cold temperatures. Permits and guides are required.
Other hiking options in the Democratic Republic of Congo national parks and mountain ranges include Mikeno Volcano, Mount Nyamuragira, Mount Kahuzi, and Mount Biega. Essential items to carry include hiking boots, sleeping bags, and rain jackets.
Explore the nation today and explore the grandeur of its towering mountains on a hike!
Enjoy a Birding Tour
This interesting activity is another of the best things to do in Congo when on safari holidays, considering the huge number of birds (over 1,139 bird types) this nation has, making it a premier destination for birdwatching and a birdwatchers’ paradise.
The Congo River Basin rainforests, Virunga (Eastern Part of DRC), Kahuzi Biega (East of DRC), Salonga, and Garamba National Parks offer forests, savannahs, and wetland habitats for spotting birds like the rare Congo peafowl, Rockefeller’s sunbird, and African river martin, among other bird types.
The best time for birding is during the dry season. Essential items to carry include long pants, long-sleeved shirts, sun hats, waterproof boots, cameras, and day packs with snacks and water.
Book a Congo birding tour today and see all the rare birds of paradise firsthand on a safari trip!
Engage in Boat Tours | Lake Kivu and Congo River Cruises
This is another of the interesting Democratic Republic of Congo safari activities you can enjoy on safari holidays for unforgettable experiences.
Experience the beauty of the nation’s waterways on boat tours on L. Kivu or the R. Congo. L. Kivu offers short and long trips with opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and visiting local villages.
The Congo River Cruise takes you through the second-longest river in Africa, with stops at local tribes and attractions.
Essential items to carry include sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and comfortable clothing. The best time for a boat trip is during the dry season.
Book your boat cruises today for memorable safari experiences!
Go Chimpanzee Trekking in Congo
For memorable safaris, this outstanding safari activity is a must-do on safari holidays.
Chimpanzee trekking in the nation’s Virunga National Park (Eastern DRC), among other national parks, offers a unique experience. The park’s Mahura Forest is home to a habituated chimpanzee group, with only 6 visitors allowed per group.
Treks start early to increase sighting chances. Visitors must be 15+, healthy, and follow park rules. Essential items to carry include long pants, long-sleeved shirts, waterproof boots, cameras, and day packs.
The best time for chimpanzee trekking is during the dry season, with minimal rain and optimal forest conditions.
Book a Congo safari today and enjoy this activity to the fullest!
Join a Nature Walking Safari in the Democratic Republic of Congo
When on a safari trip, the best thing to do in Congo is immerse yourself in the nation’s natural beauty by partaking in a walking safari.
Safari walks in the Democratic Republic of Congo are often done in Virunga and Kahuzi Biega National Parks (Eastern DRC), among other places to visit, and national parks offering immersive safari experiences with nature.
Guided walks allow for close encounters with flora, fauna (elephants, okapis, chimps, etc.), and primates while learning about local culture and herbal remedies.
Trails vary, and rangers advise on designated routes based on interests. Essential items to carry include long pants, long-sleeved shirts, waterproof boots, cameras, and day packs.
The best time for walking safaris is during the dry season, with minimal rain and optimal forest conditions.
Explore the nation today and enjoy this activity for fascinating views!
Join In Cultural Tours in Congo
These are some of the favorable things to do in Congo to understand the ways of the Congolese people.
Cultural tours in the Democratic Republic of Congo reveal the country’s rich heritage. Tour the Mbuti Pygmies in Virunga National Park (Eastern DRC) to learn about traditional hunting and gathering.
Explore Goma’s vibrant markets and streets and tour the R. Congo to see traditional fishermen.
Must-see things include traditional villages, local markets, artisanal crafts, music and dance performances, and historical sites like colonial-era buildings and museums.
The dry season (June to September) is ideal for cultural tours, with dry and comfortable weather.
Book your cultural tour today and get a glimpse of the ways of the people up close!
Partake in Fishing in Congo
The nation’s vast waterways, including Kivu Lake and the R. Congo, boast over 1,000 fish species, making fishing a thrilling tour activity and a vital source of income and protein for locals.
Various fishing methods are employed, such as pond fishing, drift netting, and gill nets. Top fishing spots include Lake Kivu, R. Congo, and Lake Tanganyika, among other water bodies, with the dry season (June to September) being the best time to cast a line.
Guided fishing tours offer unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking scenery. So, book your fishing tour now!
Partake in Photography Safaris in Congo National Parks
Photography, as one of the popular Congo safari activities, captures the country’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and incredible fauna.
Document the majestic mountain gorillas and chimps in Virunga National Park (Eastern DRC), colorful bird types in Kahuzi Biega NP, and vibrant markets in Kinshasa capital and Goma.
The dry season (June to September) offers optimal photography conditions. Note that permits are required to photograph governmental buildings, and it’s recommended to work with a fixer and a police officer when shooting on the streets.
Tour the nation today and capture all its beauty with the lens!
Additional Solo Congo Tourist Activities to Add to Your Safari Bucket List on Democratic Republic of The Congo Safaris
These are some of the safari activities you can enjoy as a solo traveler in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
1) Tour Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
Explore Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, the only home for orphaned mountain gorillas in Africa. Found near Mikeno Lodge in Virunga National Park (Eastern DRC), the center cares for gorillas rescued from poaching and conflict.
Observe these wonderful animals up close and support conservation efforts led by Andre Bauma and the Virunga National Park team, along with the Gorilla Doctors.
2) Explore Lwiro Primates’ Rehabilitation Centre
Tour Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Centre, a sanctuary for orphaned primates rescued from poaching and pet trade. Established in 2002, the center cares for 92 chimps and 108 monkeys from 13 different species.
Located near Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Lwiro plays a crucial role in conservation, education, and law enforcement, providing a haven for confiscated animals.
3) Visit the Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary
Explore Lola ya Bonobo, a sanctuary for orphaned bonobos, a species threatened with extinction. Located west of Kinshasa, the capital city, the sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates, and cares for orphaned bonobos until they return to the wild.
With only 50,000 remaining in the wild, this conservation effort helps protect these peaceful primates from habitat loss, poaching, and animal trafficking.
4) Explore The Marche Central
Explore Kinshasa’s vibrant Marche Central, a bustling marketplace in Matonge. Safari to experience local culture, observe daily life, and interact with vendors.
Buy fresh produce, herbs, grains, Congolese fabrics, and second-hand clothes. For a safe and authentic experience, tour with a local guide and leave valuables behind.
5) Journey to the Palais De La Nation
Tour the Palais De La Nation in Kinshasa, the capital, which is the official residence and workplace of the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Built in 1956, it was initially intended as the residence of the colonial Belgian Governor-General.
After the nation gained independence in 1960, the palace became a symbol of the new state, hosting key events like Patrice Lumumba’s speech denouncing colonialism.
6) Tour the National Museum of Kinshasa | Musée National de Kinshasa
Discover the nation’s rich history and culture at the Musée National de Kinshasa. Explore the vast archive of 46,000 objects, showcasing the country’s heritage, wildlife, and tribal diversity. Guided tours are available, followed by a scenic view of the R. Congo.
7) Adventure the Other Historical Buildings in Kinshasa, the Capital City
Alternatively, travelers can explore the iconic landmarks in Kinshasa, the largest French-speaking city in sub-Saharan Africa and globally, surpassing Paris. These include:
- Nôtre Dame Cathedral: A stunning brick and glass church built in 1947 under Belgian rule and one of Kinshasa’s most important religious landmarks.
- Église Ste Anne: Kinshasa’s main Catholic church, situated within a large missionary compound, showcasing beautiful architecture and rich history.
- Académie des Beaux-Arts: Explore this renowned art school’s scenic grounds, featuring numerous sculptures, and witness students and professors at work.
- Laurent Kabila’s Tomb: Explore the tomb of the nation’s former president, featuring a unique North Korean-made statue, but be prepared for strict security checks.
8) Go To the Snake Farm | Serpents du Congo
Tour Serpents du Congo, a snake farm 28 km from Kinshasa, for a unique day out. Meet owner Franck and get up close with poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, with the option to hold some. Book ahead for a guided tour.
9) Explore The Zongo Falls
Experience the breathtaking Zongo Falls, a 65m-high waterfall in the western Democratic Republic of Congo. Located 130 km from Kinshasa, the falls are surrounded by lush, beautiful scenery, offering stunning photo opportunities, especially during the rainy season from November to March.
10) Go Island Hopping on Idjwi Island
Discover Idjwi Island, a hidden gem in L. Kivu, the second-largest lake island in Africa and the tenth largest globally. Boasting stunning landscapes and untouched beauty.
Discover the island’s lush landscapes, encircled by pristine waters, and immerse yourself in the warmth of its hospitable communities.
11) Enjoy the nightlife in the Congo
Experience Kinshasa’s vibrant nightlife at popular spots like Jardin d’Eden, Kwilu Bar, and Fiesta Club. Enjoy live music, rumba, and dancing, or explore Matonge’s bars, restaurants, and nightclubs for an unforgettable night out.
12) Attend Cultural Events and Shows
Immerse yourself in Kinshasa’s rich culture at Texaf Bilembo, a hub for cultural performances, art exhibitions, and film screenings. Explore the gallery, shop for local handicrafts and books, and experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
13) Savor Local Congolese Food | Local Congo Cuisine
Savor Kinshasa’s culinary delights, from traditional Congolese dishes like Poulet à la Moambé to international flavors. Popular eateries include Chez Flore, A Casa Mia, Limoncello, and Eric Kayser, offering a range of options to suit every taste.
14) Explore the art galleries, schools, and shops
Discover Kinshasa’s vibrant art scene by visiting Symphonie des Arts, Académie des Beaux-Arts, and Je Gagne Ma Vie. These galleries and schools showcase local artisans, students, and disabled artists, offering a unique glimpse into Congolese creativity.
Journey to Kinshasa and surrounding cities and partake in some of the interesting safari activities they offer avenues to!
Other Top Things to Do in Pointe Noire and the Republic of Congo, Central Africa
Besides the safari activities done in the Democratic Republic of Congo, you can partake in other popular and interesting activities in the other parts of Congo (the Republic of Congo), like Pointe Noire and these include.
1) Discover Congo’s Rich History at Diosso
Tour the Loango and Diosso villages, 20 km from Pointe Noire, to uncover the nation’s poignant history. Explore the Gorges of Diosso, stunning cliffs shaped by sea and wind erosion, and relax on picturesque palm-fringed beaches, once a major slave trade port.
2) Immerse Yourself in Vibrant Brazzaville
Discover vibrant Brazzaville, the Republic of the Congo’s capital city, situated on the nation Riverbanks. Explore pulsating markets, a thriving arts scene, colonial relics, and memorials. Enjoy stunning views of Kinshasa across the river and soak up the city’s infectious energy.
3) Visit the Other Areas in Brazzaville
Besides touring these places and attractions above, travelers can explore these other stunning things and places in the capital city—Brazzaville.
- Palais du Peuple | People’s Palace: The heavily guarded residence of President Denis Sassou N’Guesso, best admired from a distance due to security restrictions.
- La Corniche: Stroll along this modernized embankment, enjoying stunning views of the R. Congo and Kinshasa, the capital city, and marvel at the impressive Pont du 15 août 1960 bridge.
- Hôtel de Ville: Admire the modernist architecture of Brazzaville’s city hall, strategically located by the R. Congo and featuring a distinctive French-inspired design.
- Marché Touristique: Browse the vibrant travel market for unique souvenirs, including traditional weavings and woodcarvings amidst the eclectic stalls.
- Brazza Memorial: Pay respects to Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, the founder of Brazzaville, at this memorial, featuring a statue and his final resting place.
4) Relax in Pointe Noire
Unwind in Pointe Noire, the Republic of the Congo’s coastal gem worth visiting. This laid-back city boasts a charming, underdeveloped beachfront, perfect for seaside sundowners. Explore the bustling market, savor local cuisine, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this seaside town.
5) Take a Ride on the “La Gazelle”
Embark on a scenic journey aboard “La Gazelle,” a historic train connecting Brazzaville and Pointe Noire. This slow yet immersive ride offers breathtaking views but also serves as a poignant reminder of the over 17,000 Congolese lives lost during its construction.
6) Tour the Stunning Loufoulakari Falls
Discover the breathtaking Loufoulakari Falls, where the Congo and Loufoulakari rivers converge. Enjoy panoramic views of the lush countryside on a day trip from Brazzaville, and marvel at the region’s most impressive waterfalls, nestled 80 km from the capital.
7) Stroll Around Linzolo
Explore Linzolo, a charming city worth visiting just 30 km from Brazzaville, the capital. Explore the historic Catholic church, built in 1882, and browse the vibrant market. Linzolo is also home to the regional World Health Organization office, adding to its cultural significance.
8) Track Gorillas in Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park
Venture into Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to track lowland gorillas, elephants, and chimps. This vast, remote park in northern Congo, dubbed “The Last Eden,” boasts incredible biodiversity amidst its swampy rainforests.
9) Unwind at Les Rapides
Relax at Les Rapides, where the mighty R. Congo unleashes its power. Enjoy a cold beer in the leafy garden of the riverside bar, a popular spot for locals and travelers. Witness the river’s raw energy up close.
Tour Pointe Noire and surrounding cities and take part in some of the fascinating tour activities they offer platforms for!
Things To Do in Congo FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is Congo Safe? Is It Safe to Travel to Congo?
The Congo is safe for travelers to travel to, however, with the guidance of reputable tour operators and professional armed rangers.
However, just like in any safari country, you need to keep informed of the current security situation, exercise caution, and keep your personal belongings safe on Congo safaris.
2. Is Congo Good for Tourists?
Yes, Congo is a beautiful country good for tourism from all over the world seeking remarkable safari experiences.
3. What Is the Congo Famous For? | What Is the Congo Most Famous For?
This nation in central Africa, is famous for several things, e.g.,
- Diverse wildlife like the endangered mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas, elusive okapis, rare bonobos, etc.
- Magnificent national parks, such as Virunga and Salonga.
- The Congo River, a vital transportation route and source of hydroelectric power.
- Mineral wealth, including diamonds, gold, copper, and cobalt.
- Vibrant music and dance, including rumba and soukous.
- Unique cuisine, blending African, European, and Asian influences.
- Rich cultural heritage, with over 200 languages spoken and a complex colonial history.
- Home to indigenous groups, such as the Pygmies.
- Mount Nyiragongo, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
4. Is the US friendly with Congo?
Yes, the US is friendly with the nation, and this is seen from the investments they make in the country for the Congolese people through investing in their well-being through humanitarian aid, public health programs, economic development initiatives, democracy promotion, human rights advocacy, and capacity-building tools.
5. Can You Drink Alcohol in Congo?
Drinking alcohol is allowed in the nation, with most beverages found from the biggest to the smallest shops, but be mindful of local customs and safety, especially in volatile areas.
6. Why Do Tourists Visit the Congo?
Travelers visit the nation because it is a unique travel destination, offering vibrant culture, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Top things to see include mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park (Eastern DRC) offering avenues for gorilla tracking, Mount Nyiragongo for volcano hiking, and the R. Congo and L. Kivu for scenic boat tours and relaxation.
The country also boasts a rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure travel worth seeing when on Congo safaris.
7. What Do They Spend in Congo?
The nation’s official currency is the Congolese franc (CDF), but the US dollar (USD) is widely accepted.
Prices vary, but expect to pay $10-2500 USD for accommodation, $3-20 USD for meals, and $5-500 USD for transportation and tourism activities.
Discover Congo today and immerse yourself in the captivating activities the country offers.
Don’t hesitate to contact our team of professionals for a customized safari package for your memorable Congo safari!
