01Discover · Tourism
A country that amazes
Ancient rainforests, a legendary river, active volcanoes and glistening lakes: welcome to the Heart of Africa.
Nature & Rainforests
The Congo Basin is home to the world’s second largest tropical rainforest, a vital green lung for humanity.
The Congo River
The world’s second most powerful river by discharge, an ancient 4,700 km lifeline connecting the nation.
Parks & Biodiversity
Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and legendary sanctuary for mountain gorillas.
Cities & Modernity
Kinshasa, a vibrant metropolis of over 15 million people, the musical and cultural epicenter of Africa.
Lake Kivu & Bukavu
Turquoise waters, lush peninsulas and the serene elegance of a tropical alpine lake in Central Africa.
Wildlife & Okapis
The Okapi Wildlife Reserve, in the Ituri Forest, the only place on Earth this Congo-endemic animal calls home.
Culture & Living Heritage
A vibrant way of life: UNESCO-inscribed Congolese rumba, the philosophy of La Sape and rich river cuisine.
Adventure & Volcanoes
Climbing active smoking craters, river dugout expeditions and trekking across the Great Rift highlands.
—Explore the Heart of Africa
Landmark destinations to explore
From the banks of the Congo River to gorilla conservation sanctuaries, discover the landmark destinations of the DRC.
Kinshasa
Metropolis on the river, the beating heart of creative Africa.
Congo River
The hydrographic heart and ancient backbone of the country.
Virunga & Volcanoes
Mountain gorillas, active craters and legendary peaks.
Lake Kivu & Bukavu
Tropical peninsulas, serene coves and alpine panoramas.
Okapi Wildlife Reserve
Ituri Forest, the okapi’s only home on Earth.
High Plateaus
Spectacular hiking and dramatic Rift Valley landscapes.
—Practical Guide
Plan your journey to the DRC
Everything you need to plan your stay: regions, signature experiences, weather and travel tips.
Where to go
- Kinshasa & West: The Congo River, iconic sunsets, legendary nightlife and culinary delights.
- Kivu & East: Lake Kivu, Goma, Bukavu and base camps for iconic national parks.
- North & Ituri: Primary rainforest, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve and pristine wilderness.
- Katanga & South: Lubumbashi, high-altitude plateaus and thunderous waterfalls.
What to do
- Mountain gorilla trekking in the ancient Virunga cloud forests.
- Spectacular ascent to the active crater of Mount Nyiragongo.
- Twilight cruising along the majestic Congo River.
- An authentic Congolese rumba evening in the historic venues of Kinshasa.
When to visit
- Main dry season: June to September, ideal for hiking and wildlife tracking.
- Short dry season: December to February, great for city exploration and cultural festivals.
- Pleasant year-round temperate climate around Lake Kivu and the highlands.
Travel Essentials
- Entry Visa: official consular processing with streamlined options for Virunga visitors.
- Health: Yellow fever vaccination mandatory, malaria prophylaxis advised.
- Accommodations: curated eco-lodges in conservation areas and premium urban hotels.
—Suggested Itineraries
Inspiring routes for your discovery
Great Lakes & Volcanoes
Goma · Virunga · Lake Kivu · Bukavu
Mountain gorilla tracking, volcano hiking and relaxation along the tranquil bays of Lake Kivu.
Congo River & Kinshasa Soul
Kinshasa · Congo River · Zongo · Pool Malebo
Cultural immersion, live rumba nights, river navigation and excursions to the dramatic Zongo waterfalls.