Adventure to the Congo Africa, and enjoy the most thrilling trip in one of the most spectacular travel destinations in Africa, teeming with UNESCO world heritage sites.
There are several spectacular game parks in the country, each with its distinct features and wildlife that are popular places to visit in Congo.
The Congo’s wildlife parks are a delight for nature lovers and offer tantalizing safari experiences that showcase the country’s natural beauty.
Virunga National Park (A UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Virunga National Park is a large conservation area (8,090 square kilometers, 3,120 square miles) in the eastern DRC and is a popular tourist destination in the country. Straddling the borders with Uganda and Rwanda, the park encompasses the Rwenzori Mountains, extending southward to the Virunga volcanoes near Lake Kivu.
The protected area’s location in the incredibly rich Albertine rift, coupled with its varied landscapes makes it a biodiversity hotspot. And it is for this reason that Virunga was established in 1925, making it one of Africa’s oldest national parks.
Endangered mountain gorillas, alongside other rare primates like golden monkeys, eastern lowland gorilla species, and chimpanzees, are major tourist attractions drawing to this UNESCO World Heritage site. As a result, Virunga is the most visited national park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Attractions in Virunga National Park:
| · Mountain gorillas | · Rift Valley & Semliki River |
| · Other primates & wildlife e.g. Okapis | · Remarkable scenery |
| · Mountains (two extinct volcanoes, active volcanoes & the Rwenzori mountains) | · Tchegera island |
| · Local communities (African pygmies) | · Lakes Kivu & Edward |
Activities in Virunga Park:
| · Gorilla trekking | · Volcano climbing |
| · Chimpanzee tracking | · Bird watching |
| · Game drives | · Swimming, sport fishing, & snorkeling |
| · Nature walks | · Boat rides |
| · Community tours to the Mbuti people | |
Accommodation in Virunga ranges from Luxury, to Mid-Range, & Budget options, including:
| · Mikeno Lodge | · Tchegera Island Camp |
| · Lulimbi Tented Camp | · Ngila Lodge |
Visit Virunga National Park for exciting gorilla trekking, breathtaking views of stunning active volcanoes, and island hopping in Lake Kivu on your Democratic Republic of Congo safari.
Salonga National Park
Located in the vast central Congo basin, Salonga National Park, which is primarily dense tropical rain forest on one of the Congo River’s tributaries is one of the top tourist sites in Congo. Covering 36,000 square kilometers, Salonga bounds Africa’s largest relatively intact rainforest, and is a UNESCO world heritage site.
The extremely remote location of the park means that the area is only accessible by boat, with some regions remaining completely unexplored. Due to this isolation, species have been able to evolve undisturbed, with a variety of endemics recorded, including the rare bongo antelope, African slender snouted crocodile, endemic Salonga monkeys, and bonobos (a species of dwarf chimpanzee).
Salonga National Park Attractions:
| · Rare wildlife, e.g. forest elephants, tree pangolins, tshuapa red colobus monkeys, the Congo peafowl, etc. | · Waterfalls |
| · Riverine ecosystems | · Indigenous communities i.e. Iyaelima pygmies of Congo |
| · Hiking trails | |
Activities in Salonga:
| · Primate viewing | · Boating/Canoeing |
| · Wildlife watching | · Birding |
| · Foot safaris | · Community interactions |
| · Conservation activities e.g. volunteering | · Sightseeing |
Accommodation in Salonga is available at tented camps and lodges with basic facilities within the forest. Homestays in the community are also another option.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting Salonga National Park for an exciting birding safari in one of the finest avian wildernesses.
Garamba National Park
One of Africa’s oldest national parks, following its establishment in 1938, Garamba Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Congo, and also the country’s largest national park.
The park’s maze of ecosystems that includes vast savannahs, forests, and riparian areas creates diverse habitats for a large variety of endemic species.
Situated in the north east of the country close to the border with South Sudan, Garamba has largely recovered from the misfortunes of past armed conflict by militia groups, and now offers exclusive adventures, and the opportunity to view vast herds of wildlife without droves of tourists.
Attractions in Garamba National Park:
| · Unique wildlife species (Kordofan giraffe, northern white rhinos, & golden cats) | · Scenic views |
| · Exotic Birds, including squacco herons, water plover, secretary bird, etc. | · Nature trails |
Activities in Garamba Park:
| · Game viewing | · Boat safaris |
| · Bird watching | · Sport fishing |
| · Hiking | · Primate viewing |
Accommodation in Garamba is available at African Parks’ Garamba Lodge.
Take an exciting game drive and enjoy seclusion in the pristine wilderness/nature surrounded by wildlife on your exclusive Congo safari to Garamba National Park.
Other Selected National Parks in the Democratic Republic of Congo:
Listed are a few of the other popular wildlife parks, which also constitute the best tourist sites in Congo.
Kahuzi Biega National Park
Famous for its population of endangered eastern lowland gorillas, Kahuzi Biega National Park is a nature paradise and one of the top tourist sites in Congo.
The two sections of the Kahuzi Biega National Park which comprise the eastern mountainous region and the western lowland area, create a unique ecosystem teeming with endemics that are a habitat for the elusive eastern lowland gorillas (Grauer’s gorilla).
Maiko National Park
The vast Maiko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is composed of dense tropical jungle fringed by numerous rivers, creating one of the most popular tourist sites in Congo.
The park’s diverse ecosystems feature flagship species including the endangered eastern lowland gorilla species (Grauer’s gorilla), elusive okapis, and forest elephants.
The park is also a rich in avian species, making it an ornithologist’s and birdwatcher’s paradise. Some noteworthy species present include; black bee-eater, saddle-billed stork, and the Congo peafowl.
Kundelungu National Park
Situated in the southern Katanga Province, Kundelungu features open savannahs with gallery forests, dry woodland, abundant wildlife, and the dramatic 340 meter (1,120 foot) high Lofoi Falls.
Lomami National Park
Created in 2016, Lomami National Park encompasses a vast lowland area between the Lomami River and Lualaba drainage basins in central Congo. The park’s outstanding biodiversity includes sought-after species like bonobos, okapis, and the striking Congo peafowl that are major attractions.
Mangroves National Park
Despite being the smallest park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mangroves Park holds the distinction of being the only marine-centered park in the country. Situated at the mouth of the Congo River, the park supports distinctive tree species like red cedar, and African oak. It is also one of the few places in the continent to view African manatees which are major attractions.
Upemba National Park
One of the largest conservation areas in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the south-based Upemba encloses a large depression with extensive regions of marshland and shallow lakes, including Lake Upemba. These waterways are a habitat for African elephant fish, shoebills, and giant crocodiles. The park’s drier upper reaches is characterized by luxuriant Miombo woodlands and tall grasses.
Bombo Lumene National Park
This is the closest park to Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is situated just 2-3 hours west of the city, amidst scenic hills and ravines. The area provides a perfect getaway for day or overnight trips in a natural setting. Various bird species can be spotted in the park, and community interaction is also a major draw for tourists.
Republic of Congo National Parks
Odzala-Kokoua National Park in The Republic of Congo (Home of Forest Elephants)
Odzala-Kokoua National Park, established in 1935, is one of Africa’s oldest parks, spanning 13,546 km² in the Republic of Congo’s heart.
It features diverse ecosystems, protecting one of the last known populations of western lowland gorillas, forest elephants, and other wildlife that are major tourist attractions, offering gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing, and exploration of the Congo Basin’s unique biodiversity.
Visit Congo and appreciate the beauty of nature in the country’s scenic parks, as they are the best tourist sites in Congo.
Wildlife Reserves in Congo
Aside from its famous game parks, the Congo has a number of spectacular wildlife reserves that are amongst the popular tourist sites in Congo. Below are a few:
Okapi Wildlife Reserve
The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is one of the top tourist sites in the democratic Republic of Congo. Occupying a significant portion of Congo’s sprawling Ituri Forest, the Okapi Reserve in the northeast, close to Uganda and South Sudan is an ecological gem, protecting some of the rarest wildlife species, most notably, the elusive okapi.
Consisting of sections of dense forests, extensive marshland, and regions open savannah, the protected area contains big populations of large mammals including African bush elephants, buffalos, and various antelope species.
Despite a past period marked by instability and rampant poaching for bush meat, Okapi Wildlife Reserve is now a refuge for endangered wildlife, courtesy of interventions such as the Okapi Conservation Project.
Today, the reserve is thriving with revamped animal populations. Of particular mention are rare species like the Bates’ pygmy antelope, bongo animals, and the Congo peafowl, which have rebounded.
Attractions in Okapi Wildlife Reserve:
| · Abundance of Ituri rainforest animals, notably, okapis | · Mount Mbiya |
| · Unique terrain, featuring waterways, various vegetation zones, & granite outcrops | · Okapi Conservation Center |
| · Other wildlife species e.g. chimpanzees, African forest elephants, leopards, etc. | · Indigenous pygmies i.e. Mbuti pygmies & Efe people |
| · Nature trails | · Game tracks |
Activities in Okapi Wildlife Reserve:
| · Game viewing | · Sightseeing |
| · Hiking | · Community visits |
| · Boat rides | · Volunteering at the conservation center |
| · Camping | · Primate watching |
There is basic lodging at the reserve’s headquarters at Epulu, otherwise alternative accommodation can be found at Plaza Hotel, Hotel Kisangani, & Vuvuke Guest House nearby.
Other Wildlife & Nature Reserves in the Congo include;
- Bomu Wildlife Reserve
- Itombwe Nature Reserve
- Sankuru Nature Reserve
- Ngiri Triangle Nature Reserve
Adventure to the Congo’s diverse wildlife and nature reserves for an exclusive Congo safari.
Congo Mountains
Congo’s vast landscape also features various mountains and ranges. Mostly concentrated in the east along the rift system, there a string of towering massifs flanking the Albertine lakes, which are some of the most popular tourist places to visit in Congo. They include;
Soaring to a majestic 3,470 meters (11,384 feet), Mt. Nyiragongo is a highly active volcano in the Virunga Mountains, and a top tourist site in Congo.
The Nyiragongo volcano is known for its periodic violent eruptions, nightly spectacular light shows, and also for having the world’s largest lava lake within its crater.
The slopes of the mountain, together with the adjoining volcanoes including Nyamuragira, Sabyinyo, Bisoke, Mikeno, and Karisimbi are a habitat for animal life including some of the world’s last known populations of wild mountain gorillas and other rare primates like golden monkeys and chimpanzees.
Mt. Nyiragongo Attractions:
| · Crater & lava lake | · Unique wildlife |
| · Spectacular views of adjacent active volcanoes | · Lake Kivu |
| · Hiking trails | · Goma City |
Activities Around Mt. Nyiragongo:
| · Volcano climbing | · Sightseeing |
| · Nature walks | · Biking |
| · Gorilla trekking | · Cultural tours |
| · Bird watching | · Chimpanzee tracking |
Mt. Nyiragongo Accommodation:
| · Lake Kivu Lodge | · Kibumba Tented Camp |
| · Hotel Cap Kivu | |
Other Congo Mountains:
- Rwenzori Mountains
- Blue Mountains
- Mitumba Mountains
Congo’s mountains are a marvel of nature, teeming with wildlife and fun activities, including gorilla trekking, to excite you on your trips to Congo.
Congo Cities (Considered Top Sites and Tourist Attractions in Congo Republic)
Considering the country’s vast size, numerous large urban centers are found across its regions, and they are among the premier tourist sites in the Congo. They include;
Kinshasa
Kinshasa, also the Congo’s capital and main hub is an African megacity that showcases some of the most popular tourist sites in the country. The city is a cultural melting pot, with a vibrant arts scene, featuring musicians, artists, and filmmakers.
Situated in the west of the country on the banks of the Congo River, Kinshasa sits across from Congo Brazzaville, the capital of the neighboring Congo Republic. One of the Kinshasa facts is that together with Brazzaville, the twin cities are the closest capitals in the world, with only the Congo separating them by a 4 kilometer wide stretch.
Kinshasa is a fascinating place, its architecture a mix of colonial, contemporary, and ultra-modern influences. Wide tree-lined boulevards dotted with quaint cafes, cinemas, boutiques, and art galleries contrast with the lively urban sprawl of the suburbs.
Its vast size and huge population of over 17 million inhabitants makes Kinshasa one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas, as well as the world’s largest francophone city.
Attractions in Kinshasa, the Largest City in Congo
| · Congo River | · Kinshasa National Museum |
| · Palais du Peuple (Houses of Parliament) | · Kinshasa Fine Arts Academy |
| · Religious sites e.g. Paroisse Sainte Anne – A Roman Catholic cathedral near central station | · Kinshasa music scene |
| · Boulevard du 30 Juin (iconic tree-lined avenue) | · Nsele Valley Park (urban nature park) |
| · Lola ya Bonobo (the only sanctuary in the world for orphaned bonobos) | · Jardin Zoologique (botanical gardens) |
| · Historical monuments e.g. Patrice Lumumba & Laurent Kabila monuments | · Texaf Bilembo (for cultural performances) |
Activities in Kinshasa
| · Kinshasa City Tour | · Visit local markets e.g. Le Grand marche (one of Africa’s largest central market) |
| · Nature walks in urban parks | · Dining out (street food, local cuisine, & fine dining restaurants) |
| · Visit art galleries, schools & exhibitions | · Boat rides/Cruises |
| · Visit the Kinshasa symphony orchestra | · Community tours to fishing villages |
| · Explore Zongo & Livingstone Falls | · Attend sporting events like football at Stade de Martyrs (80,000 pax staduim) |
| · See orphaned bonobos at the Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary | · Visit Congo Brazzaville nearby |
Hotels in Kinshasa:
| · Marriott Kinshasa | · Hilton Kinshasa |
| · Fleuve Congo Hotel (Blazon Hotels) | · Beatrice Providence |
| · Pullman Kinshasa | · Novotel Kinshasa la Gombe |
Other Cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo
- Lubumbashi
- Goma
- Kisangani
- Kindu
- Mbuji-Mayi
Visit Kinshasa and revel in the lively Congolese music, culture, and arts scene of one of the most exciting cities on your tour of the Democratic Republic of Congo Africa.
Pointe Noire
Pointe-Noire is a coastal city in the Republic of Congo. Located on the Atlantic Ocean, it’s a major economic hub and port.
Pointe-Noire attractions include the stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and the city’s colonial architecture.
Pointe-Noire activities include snorkeling, diving, and exploring the nearby Tchimpounga Sanctuary for chimpanzees and other wildlife, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Take a day trip to Pointe-Noire and marvel at the beauty of the Republic of Congo!
Other republic of Congo cities worth visiting on a day trip include Dolisie, Niari, Nkayi, Bouenza, Ouésso, Sangha, Kintélé among others.
Visit the Republic of Congo now and see all these firsthand!
Congo Landmarks – Historical & Religious Sites
Given the country’s rich background from antiquity, fascinating landmarks exist in Congo, and are among the most popular tourist sites in Congo. There are historical locations which hold significant importance, as well as religious establishments. Below are a few outstanding mentions:
Kinshasa Cathedral
The imposing Kinshasa Cathedral, also known as Notre Dame du Congo, is among the best tourist sites in Congo. The towering gothic structure is a Roman Catholic Cathedral situated in the downtown section of the city, and is the seat of the Archdiocese of Kinshasa.
Attractions of Kinshasa Cathedral:
| · Striking gothic architecture | · Iconic location on the historic Boulevard du 30 Juin intersection |
| · Massive size of the building | · Religious events |
Activities at Kinshasa Cathedral:
| · Guided tours of the buildings & grounds | · Opportunities for interacting with locals |
| · Visit the library & resource center/Congo museum | · Attend mass |
Palais De La Nation Kinshasa
This is the current presidential palace, official residence and workplace of the Congolese president, and one of the top tourist sites in Congo.
The main Attractions to the Palais de la Nation are the building’s unique neo-classical architecture (beaux-arts style), expansive grounds, dramatic riverside setting, and rich history.
An experienced private guide can aid you on how to visit the Kinshasa Presidential Palace.
More Democratic Republic of Congo Landmarks:
| · Kinshasa Mosque | · Limente Tower |
| · St. Peter’s Cathedral, Mbandaka | · Statue de Kasavubu |
| · St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Lubumbashi | · Central Station Square |
| · Congo Hindu Temple | · Marble Palace |
Experience history with an excursion to exciting historical places, then take a relaxing and inspirational tour of the Congo’s religious sites, alongside fun activities like visiting the rare bonobos.
Lakes in Congo
There is an impressive array of picturesque lakes in the Congo, which are some of the most popular destinations in the country. Some of them include;
Lake Tanganyika
Shared with Tanzania, Burundi, and Zambia, Lake Tanganyika in eastern Congo is the world’s second deepest lake, and a favorite tourist site whilst on safari in the Congo.
The ancient rift valley lake, which is also holds the second biggest fresh water volume in the world, offers spectacular views, punctuated by steep forested escarpments with plunging waterfalls, expansive sandy beaches, amazing wildlife, and thriving communities.
Attractions of Lake Tanganyika:
| · Diverse wildlife (including endemic cichlids) | · Lakuga River |
| · Spectacular scenery | · Bustling lakeside settlements |
| · Hiking trails | · Waterfalls |
Lake Tanganyika Activities:
| · Foot safaris | · Sightseeing |
| · Beachside activities & nightlife | · Mountain biking |
| · Boat cruises | · Sport fishing |
Accommodation at Lake Tanganyika:
| · TCHAM Hotel Kalemie | · Victoria Palace Hotel |
| · Emeraude Hotel | · Hotel Beau-vent |
Other significant lakes in the Congo include;
- Lake Kivu
- Lake Edward
- Lake Albert
- Lake Mweru
The Congo’s lakes are guaranteed to delight tourists with refreshing turquoise waters on a Congo adventure tour.
Congo Rivers
The Congo’s vast network of rivers creates spots which are some of the tourist sites in Congo. Below are a few:
Congo River
The Congo River, which cuts through much of the central basin of the Democratic Republic of Congo, before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean is another of the top tourist sites in Congo. It is the world’s deepest river, plunging to over 200 meters (656 feet) at some sections, and also the third largest in the world by discharge volume.
River Congo Attractions:
| · Spectacular cataracts e.g. Livingstone waterfalls, Stanley falls, & Boyoma falls | · Large cities e.g. Kisangani |
| · Species richness (including prized species like the giant tiger fish, & Nile tilapia) | · Historical buildings sites in Banana & Matadi (Bas Congo) |
| · Wildlife parks, e.g. Salonga NP | · Indigenous communities i.e. pygmies |
Congo River Activities:
| · Boat cruises | · City excursions |
| · Game park visits | · Cultural tours |
| · Forest walks | · Conservation activities |
Congo River Accommodation is available in settlements along the river in Kisangani, Kinshasa, etc., and within the protected areas.
Other Rivers in Congo
- Lualaba River
- Lakuga River
- Semliki River
Escape into a world of tranquility and nature by exploring Congo’s Rivers on an African adventure safari.
Other Interesting Places to See in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Besides the mentioned locations, there are several other exciting places to tour in the Congo on safari. Among these are Wildlife Sanctuaries and Museums all over the country.
Congo’s sanctuaries offer up-close encounters with wildlife, while the various museums give visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich history. Both the sanctuaries, and the Congob museum are among the top tourist destinations in the country. Highlighted below are a few.
- Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
Established in 2010 within the Virunga Park, close to the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage is one of the outstanding tourist sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The center is a sanctuary for captured animals, and is notable as the only mountain gorilla orphanage in the world.
Attractions at Senkwekwe Center:
| · Orphaned gorillas | · Scenic views of volcanoes |
| · Various exotic birds | · Forest trails |
| · Viewing platform | |
Activities at Senkwekwe
| · Observing gorillas | · Learning about gorilla behaviors |
| · Taking part in gorilla feeding | · Community interaction (with the wives of fallen rangers who died due to the civil wars) |
Accommodation at Senkwekwe is available at Mikeno Lodge, within Virunga Park, and in Goma City.
- Kinshasa National Museum
This is the national museum of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Kinshasa, and it is the premier destination for history enthusiasts.
Boasting an expansive exhibition area, the museum can showcase up to 12,000 cultural artefacts in their natural settings.
The main Kinshasa Museum Attraction is its extensive collection of Congolese Art, and Accommodation is available in Kinshasa.
Tourist Sites in Congo: Useful Information
For purposes of trip planning to the tourist sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the following guide can help you with organization to ensure a seamless African vacation.
Getting There
- Overland: The Democratic Republic of Congo can be accessed through border crossings at:
- Bunagana & Mpondwe (Uganda)
- Goma/Gisenyi (Rwanda)
- Bukavu/Cyangugu (Rwanda)
- Kavimvira (Burundi)
- Sakania, Pweto (Zambia)
- Luvo (Angola)
- Brazzaville (Congo Republic)
- Bangui (Central African Republic)
- By Air: Major airports in the Congo include;
- N’djili International Airport – Kinshasa Airport (FIH)
- Lubumbashi International Airport (FBM)
- Goma International Airport (GOM)
- Kisangani International Airport (FKI)
Internal flights are operated to these and numerous other airports across the country by Congo Airways and CAA.
- 3. By Water: There are ferry services across Lake Tanganyika from Mpulungu (Zambia), and Kigoma (Tanzania).
Once you’ve arrived, travel to your preferred Congo safari destination…
Tourist Sites in Congo: Packing List
The following checklist will aid in selecting what to pack for your unforgettable Congo vacation.
| Travel Documents | Passport, visa, tickets/boarding pass, yellow fever & COVID vaccination certificates (with copies) |
| Clothing | Light fabrics (cotton or linen) t-shirts, shirts, pants, jeans/khakis, vests, shorts, swimwear, jackets/sweaters, scarves, and socks |
| Footwear | Wellingtons, sturdy boots, sneakers, sandals/slippers |
| Toiletries | Toothbrush & toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hand sanitizer, wipes, insect repellent, sunscreen, lotion/moisturizer, lip balm |
| Devices | Power bank, phone charger, travel adapter, earbuds |
| Additional Items | Camera, binoculars, sunglasses, hat, small bag, face masks, cash, water bottle, snacks, flashlight, critical medications/prescriptions, GPS tool |
Tourist Sites in Congo: FAQs
What are two famous attractions in Congo?
Congo is famous for wild mountain gorillas, UNESCO world heritage sites, and eastern lowland gorilla orphans at GRACE (Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center).
What is the DRC most famous for?
The Democratic Republic of Congo is most famous for its incredible biodiversity and a wealth of natural resources, including precious minerals such as rare earths. The country is also known for its varied landscapes studded with volcanoes, lakes, and the famous Congo River.
Can US citizens go to Congo?
Yes, US citizens can go to Congo, provided the requisite documentation is obtained. They include;
- Visa (which should be applied for in advance through the Democratic Republic of Congo Embassy in Washington DC)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Valid Passport
Is Congo tourist friendly?
Congo is tourist friendly, and welcomes tourists from all over the world. The Congolese people are famously hospitable, and the country’s law enforcement agencies are top notch in ensuring a pleasurable stay on safari in Congo.
Is Congo good for Tourists?
Whilst some areas of the Congo may not be safe destinations due to an unstable security situation, most of the country and its attractions can be enjoyed with assurance. However, it is advisable to make inquiries regarding your intended destination beforehand.
Is the US friendly with Congo?
The DRC and the US enjoy a cordial relationship with each other, with both countries maintaining diplomatic missions in either country’s capital.
Visit Congo today for an exciting trek up an active volcano, see Africa’s great apes, and enjoy city delights in one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world.
