Backpacking Democratic Republic Of The Congo

Visit Democratic Republic of the Congo

Venture into the heart of Africa with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a backpacker's dream of untamed wilderness and cultural richness. Pros? Explore lush rainforests, encounter unique wildlife, and experience diverse tribal cultures. The Congo offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure. However, logistical challenges and security concerns in certain areas require careful planning. For the intrepid backpacker seeking extraordinary landscapes and cultural immersion, the DRC stands out as a truly unique destination, where the spirit of adventure thrives amidst nature's wonders and vibrant traditions.

Best known for:Known for: wildlife | uniqueness | scenery
Best time to visit: June - September

Safety warning

The current risk level for Democratic Republic of the Congo is high. Check the advice before going.

Why to go?
Why backpacking in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Wildlife

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a great destination for seeing wildlife due to its vast and diverse ecosystems. The country is home to the second-largest rainforest in the world, the Congo Basin, which is teeming with a wide variety of plant …

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Uniqueness

Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a unique and off the beaten track experience due to its vast and diverse natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the challenges it poses to travelers. The DRC is home to the second-largest …

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Scenery

The Democratic Republic of the Congo offers a diverse range of breathtaking sceneries that are worth exploring. One of the must-visit destinations is Virunga National Park, home to the awe-inspiring Nyiragongo volcano. Hiking to the summit allows …

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💡 Highlights
Top-5 things to do in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Virunga National Park: Discover the breathtaking landscapes, endangered gorillas, and active volcanoes in Africa’s oldest national park.
Kinshasa: Immerse yourself in the vibrant capital city, known for its lively music scene, bustling markets, and cultural heritage.
Mount Nyiragongo: Hike to the summit of this active volcano to witness its mesmerizing lava lake, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary: Visit the world’s only sanctuary for orphaned bonobos, and learn about conservation efforts for these endangered primates.
Maiko National Park: Embark on an adventurous safari to encounter diverse wildlife, including elephants, okapis, and the elusive eastern lowland gorillas.

But Democratic Republic of the Congo offers more...

🌆 Cities: Bukavu, Goma, Kinshasa, Kisangani, Lubumbashi

🎎 Festivals: Congo Biennale, Congo International Film Festival, Fête de la Musique, Kinshasa Fashion Week, Kisangani Cultural Festival

🏔️ Hikes: Itombwe Massif, Nyiragongo Volcano

🏞️ National parks: Garamba, Kahuzi-Biega, Maiko, Salonga, Virunga

🌤️ When to go?
Best time to go backpacking Democratic Republic of the Congo

The best time to visit the Democratic Republic of the Congo for backpacking is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant and there is less rainfall, making it easier to navigate and explore the country's natural beauty. It is important to note that the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a large country with diverse climates, so it is advisable to check the specific region you plan to visit for the most accurate weather information.JANFEBMARAPRMAYOCTNOVDEC

detailed advice per month

Risk level: high (75%)
Safety advice for Democratic Republic of the Congo

Crime rates are very high, especially in Kinshasa and in the east of the country. Risks increase after dark. Ensure your accommodation is secure. Don’t walk alone in Kinshasa, even during the day.

Protests have been occurring in Kinshasa, including outside some foreign embassies and UN offices. Avoid areas where protests are occurring. The US Embassy in Kinshasa issued a security alert on 11 February advising that protests throughout Kinshasa are likely to continue. Monitor the media for potential demonstrations or protests and follow the advice of local authorities.

Roadblocks and road closures may occur without warning. Monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.

Kidnappers often target foreigners. The risk is highest in the eastern and northeast regions. Express kidnappings in parts of Kinshasa have increased. If you're travelling to these areas, seek professional security advice. Be alert to possible threats.

The security situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is volatile. Conflict between government forces and armed groups in the east is ongoing. If it's safe to do so, leave affected areas.

There's an ongoing threat of terrorist attacks in the DRC, particularly in eastern DRC. An attack is possible at any time. Always be alert to potential threats, especially in public places.

Military administrations have replaced civilian administrations in Ituri and North Kivu until further notice. The military administrations have been granted extended security powers, and there is potential for increased armed conflict in these provinces during this time.

There's a high level of intercommunal violence in Mai Ndombe province, particularly in the territory of Kwamouth. Intercommunal violence may continue to increase and lead to further deaths and displacement.

The DRC has active volcanoes. If there's an eruption, avoid contact with ash. Seek medical help if you have breathing problems. In the rainy season, landslides and flooding can disrupt transport networks. Be prepared to change your travel plans.

source: smartraveller.gov.au

source: www.gov.uk

Democratic Republic of the Congo
My tips to get you on the way!
Does Democratic Republic of the Congo sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.

Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.

Lonely Planet

Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Democratic Republic of the Congo. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Democratic Republic of the Congo may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.

Check visa requirements for Democratic Republic of the Congo

Check vaccination requirement for Democratic Republic of the Congo

Get your travel insurance

Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Democratic Republic of the Congo, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.

Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.

Hostelworld

Expedia

My personal packing list 🎒
author

Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.

Money & Documents
Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies)
Passport photographs
Credit and debit cards (on world profile)
Cash (US$ or €)
Money belt
Vaccination proofs

Clothing
Light, quick-dry clothing
No jeans, too heavy
Ultralight rain/wind jacket
Thermo underwear
Quick-dry towel
Sunglasses

Electronics
Mobile phone + charger
Power bank
Travel adapter
Local sim card (buy it on arrival)

Health
Toothbrush
Deo
Sunscreen, lips sunburn
Anti-diarrhea
Paracetamol
Blister plasters
Anti-mosquito (DEET)
Toilet paper
Nail scissors

Others
Small number lock
Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes)
Card game(!)
Ear plugs
Travel pillow