For over two decades, the media have talked about the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) only in terms of wars and insecurity, political instability and poverty. In short, they have stressed the image of the Congo as ‘the heart of darkness’, according to Joseph Conrad’s novel. It is important to not generalize about safety because the Democratic Republic of Congo is a huge country.
Democratic Republic of Congo safety
Is it safe to travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo? Above this destructive media effect, there is the other face of the Congo-Kinshasa; the light side of the Democratic Republic of Congo that remains to be discovered. The Congo-Kinshasa has tourist attractions that are located in places considered as havens on peace and easy to access.
Among these attractions there are Kahuzi-Biega National park, Lwiro Primates Sanctuary, Idjwi Islands in the eastern part. Congo River expedition, Wagenia waterfall, Garamba National park in the north-eastern part of the country. The western part: Kinshasa, Mbombo Lumene Forest Reserve, N’sele National Park, Lola Ya Bonobos, Zongo waterfall, Kisantu Botanical garden, etc.
Getting there:
You can access the attractions located in the eastern part via Goma International Airport. Or via international airports of neighboring countries such as Kigali International Airport and Bujumbura International Airport.
For instance, it is interesting to combine Lowland gorilla trek in Kahuzi-Biega NP with a safari in eastern Africa countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, etc. Those attractions located in the western part can be accessed via N’Djili International Airport (Kinshasa).
Visa information
Foreign nationals wishing to obtain DRC visas have to submit their application to the Congolese Embassies; or diplomatic missions of their country of residence. It is also possible and easier to get a tourist visa valid for 7 days through a Trusted tour operator. However for this category of visa, you need to book an attraction in one of the national parks; like Kahuzi-Biega National park or Virunga National park (when it’s open).
It is recommended to visit the country with an experienced tour company that will know how best to keep you safe, give you genuine information about visa process and keep you updated with travel health guidelines and recommendations.
Ubuntu Voyages offers you a stress-free travel to the DRC by taking in charge your bookings (permit, accommodation, transportation) and visa inquiry.
