DRC Travel Guide: Volcanoes, Wildlife & Remote Adventures

Few places on Earth remain as raw and untamed as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Located in Central Africa, this massive country is home to dense rainforests, boiling lava lakes, rare wildlife, and vibrant local cultures that have endured for centuries.

The DRC isn’t a polished tourist hub — it’s a place of extremes. From the thundering Congo River in Kinshasa to the lava-crusted slopes of Mount Nyiragongo, this is a destination for travelers who crave depth, discovery, and unpredictability.

Here, you don’t just visit — you witness, you listen, you feel. The DRC doesn’t offer surface-level attractions. It invites you to experience the wild pulse of Central Africa.

Must-See Attractions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Virunga National Park

Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through misty forests to see endangered mountain gorillas, or trek to the lava lake at Mount Nyiragongo for a surreal volcanic experience.

Kinshasa

The DRC’s capital on the banks of the Congo River is noisy, chaotic, and full of life. Explore art galleries, lively music scenes, and colorful markets like Marché de la Liberté.

Zongo Falls

Located about 130 km from Kinshasa, these powerful waterfalls are surrounded by lush greenery and make a perfect day trip escape from the city.

Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary

Just outside Kinshasa, this rescue center protects endangered bonobos — a great place to see these rare great apes up close in a protected habitat.

Garamba National Park

Located in the northeast, this remote park is one of the last strongholds for wild elephants, giraffes, and hippos in the region. Best visited with a local guide or through conservation-focused tours.

What to Eat in the DRC

Moambe Chicken

The country’s national dish, made with chicken in a sauce of palm butter, spices, and peanuts. Rich, flavorful, and served with rice or plantains.

Fufu

A starchy side made from cassava or maize flour. Soft and stretchy, it’s used to scoop up soups and stews.

Saka Saka

Made from cassava leaves slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and palm oil. It’s earthy, comforting, and often paired with rice or fish.

Makayabu

Salted fish that’s rehydrated and cooked in tomato-based sauces. Found in homes and street stalls alike.

Chikwangue

Fermented cassava wrapped in leaves and steamed. Dense and filling — a local staple that travels well.

Congo’s cuisine is unfiltered and nourishing, rooted in what the forest, river, and land provide.

Why Travel to the DRC? What to Know About Safety and Experience

Is it safe to travel to the DRC? The short answer: yes — with care, preparation, and the right guidance. While some regions in the east face ongoing conflict and are not safe for visitors, there are several areas that are stable, welcoming, and open to tourism, such as Kinshasa, Zongo Falls, and Virunga National Park.

In these zones, you'll find trained park rangers, licensed guides, and community-run eco-lodges focused on safety and conservation. Planning ahead, traveling with a reputable operator, and staying updated on official travel advisories is essential.

So why go?

Because few places offer such raw, untouched beauty and profound encounters with both nature and humanity. Watching gorillas in the wild, peering into an active lava lake, or simply walking a Kinshasa street alive with rhythm and resilience leaves an impression that polished destinations often can’t.

The DRC is not for the casual tourist. But for the curious, open-minded traveler, it’s a place of deep connection, challenge, and unforgettable moments.

Essential Travel Tips for the DRC

Visas

All travelers must apply for a visa in advance, typically through a DRC embassy. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry.

Best Time to Visit

Dry seasons: June to September and January to February
Ideal for gorilla trekking, hiking, and wildlife tours.

Currency & Payments

Currency: Congolese Franc (CDF)
US dollars accepted in some cities
Cash is preferred — ATMs are unreliable
Carry small denominations and avoid damaged bills

Getting Around

Domestic flights link cities
Taxis and motorbike taxis (“wewa”) in Kinshasa
Riverboats are still used in rural areas

Staying Safe

Stick to safe regions, use licensed guides, and register with your embassy before arriving. Avoid traveling at night, and always carry ID.

Staying Connected in the DRC

Public Wi-Fi is rare, and mobile signal can be weak in rural areas. Getting a local SIM requires ID and often long waits — and coverage varies across networks.

JetSet eSIM makes it easy.

Activate your Democratic Republic of the Congo JetSet eSIM before you go and stay connected from the moment you land.