Congo-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Kinshasa

  • Morning: Arrive at N’Djili International Airport (FIH) in Kinshasa. Go through customs and immigration.
  • Activity: Visit the Palais du Peuple, a grandiose building that serves as the seat of government. Explore the surrounding market and try some local street food.
  • Lunch: Head to a local restaurant for traditional Congolese cuisine such as Poulet Moambé or Kitoko.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Museum of National History (Musée de l’Histoire Nationale) to learn about Congo’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Evening: Enjoy live music and dance at a local nightclub in the city.

Day 2: Mbandaka

  • Transportation: Fly from Kinshasa to Mbandaka, a town located on the banks of the Congo River (approximately 1-hour flight).
  • Morning: Visit the Mbandaka Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region.
  • Activity: Take a boat tour along the Congo River to see local fishermen and spot some wildlife such as hippos or crocodiles.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Congolese cuisine at a local restaurant overlooking the river.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby village of Boko, where you can learn about local customs and traditions.

Things to Know:

  • Visa requirements: Tourists need a visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
  • Vaccinations: Consult with your doctor about necessary vaccinations before traveling to the DRC.
  • Safety: As with any travel destination, be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Day 3: Virunga National Park

  • Transportation: Fly from Mbandaka to Goma (approximately 1-hour flight), then take a private vehicle or public transportation to the park’s headquarters.
  • Morning: Visit the Park Headquarters to learn about the conservation efforts and plan your activities for the day.
  • Activity: Take a guided hike through the Virunga National Park, home to over 200 species of birds, primates, and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for endangered mountain gorillas!
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or at one of the local villages.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of Goma to explore the bustling markets and shops.

Things to Know:

  • Virunga National Park is a protected area, so be sure to follow park rules and guidelines.
  • The park offers several activities such as hiking, tracking gorillas, or visiting the lake. Choose what suits your interests!
  • Be respectful of local communities and their way of life.

Budget Breakdown:

  • Accommodation (Kinshasa, Mbandaka, Goma): $20-30 per night
  • Food: $5-10 per meal
  • Transportation: $50-100 for domestic flights; $20-30 for land transportation
  • Activities and entrance fees: $20-50 per person

Note: Prices may vary depending on the time of year, location, and other factors. Be prepared for some flexibility in your itinerary to accommodate any changes or unexpected events.