DRC at a glance is a vast country with rich natural resources including rain forests, volcanos, glacial mountains, wildlife, and cultures. But, until recently it was under the clutches of civil war and corruption. DRC At A Glance will give the best guide to DRC Safaris.
DRC, officially known as the Democratic Republic of Congo, is landlocked and, located in central Africa, 25-mile (40-km) coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. Its capital Kinshasa is also the largest city in central Africa, it serves as the country’s official administrative, economic, and cultural center.
Basic Information
- Official Name: the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Area: 2.34 million sq km (905,354 sq miles)
- Capital: Kinshasa
- Population: 81.5 million
- Major languages: French, Lingala, Kiswahili, Kikongo, Tshiluba
- Major religions: Christianity, Islam
- Life expectancy: 58 years (men), 61 years (women)
- Currency: Congolese franc
Congo gained independence from Belgium in 1960. From 1971 to 1997 the country was officially the Republic of Zaire by then ruler Gen, Mobutu Sese Seko. Later, it was renamed the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Congo has seen the true horrors of devastating civil war. The conflicts officially ended in 2003. But the fighting continued in the eastern part of the country.
Congo is rich in natural resources with about half of the hydroelectric potential of the entire continent. Plus it has one of the largest forest reserves in Africa with vast deposits of industrial diamonds, cobalt, and copper.
DRC Borders
Congo is landlocked by the Central African Republic to the north and Sudan to the south.
Consequently, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania are to its eastern borders and Zambia to the southeast, Angola to the southwest.
The Short Atlantic coastline, the Angolan exclave of Cabinda, and Congo (Brazzaville) are situated to the west of the country.
DRC Climate
DRC experiences a tropical climate with generally hot and humid conditions in the equatorial river basin. The southern highlands are cooler and drier though. Whereas the eastern highlands are cool and wet.
As the country is located on the equator, it undergoes great climatic variations to the north and south.
North Of The Equator
- Rainy season: April to October
- Dry season: December to February.
South Of The Equator
- Rainy season: November to March
- Dry season: April to October.
The dry seasons are considered to be the Best Time To Visit DRC.
For more information about DRC Safaris and information regarding travel insurance or any other necessary details, visit Gazelle Safaris Africa today. Also, get the best option to explore DRC Travel Guide.
DRC Safari
Quick Facts About DRC
1 / 7
People
More than 200 African ethnic groups live in Congo; of these, Bantu peoples constitute a large majority of the country’s population. They entered the territory of modern Congo between the 10th and the 14th century from the west and north.
2 / 7
Money
US dollars are accepted everywhere and moneychangers are omnipresent in DRC's cities. Somewhat reliable, internationally linked ATMs are common in the large cities. The local currency, the Congolese franc (CDF). Credit cards are accepted in many DRC hotels, restaurants.
3 / 7
Geography
The DRC lies on the equator and has borders with 9 African countries – Congo, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia & Angola. The DRC forms part of the Congo River Basin, which covers an area of almost 1,000,000 square kilometres (390,000 sq mi).
4 / 7
Activities
DRC safaris are certainly an almighty adventure for those willing to charter new territory and discover truly magical moments. Adventurous DRC activities includes Mountain gorilla trekking, climbing an active volcano, chimpanzee trekking and hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains.
5 / 7
Weather
If you are a lover of long summer days, beautiful sunsets and perfect tanning weather, then Congo is most likely the best place for your next holiday. Located right on the equator, the Republic of Congo is well-known for its tropical weather.
6 / 7
Transport
There is no reliable public transportation system in the DRC. You should avoid all travel by public transportation. This doesn't leave a traveller with many options, but still it’s a great country to visit. International Air Travel can be possible throughout all the seasons.
7 / 7
Plan Your Trip
Want to book a vacation to DRC? A magical, wild and exciting country where gorilla treks and volcano hikes are the name of the game. Whether you're off for a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, DRC Safari packages make planning your trip simple and affordable.
1 / 7
Money
US dollars are accepted everywhere and moneychangers are omnipresent in DRC's cities. Somewhat reliable, internationally linked ATMs are common in the large cities. The local currency, the Congolese franc (CDF). Credit cards are accepted in many DRC hotels, restaurants.
2 / 7
People
More than 200 African ethnic groups live in Congo; of these, Bantu peoples constitute a large majority of the country’s population. They entered the territory of modern Congo between the 10th and the 14th century from the west and north.
3 / 7
Geography
The DRC lies on the equator and has borders with 9 African countries – Congo, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia & Angola. The DRC forms part of the Congo River Basin, which covers an area of almost 1,000,000 square kilometres (390,000 sq mi).
4 / 7
Activities
DRC safaris are certainly an almighty adventure for those willing to charter new territory and discover truly magical moments. Adventurous DRC activities includes Mountain gorilla trekking, climbing an active volcano, chimpanzee trekking and hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains.
5 / 7
Weather
If you are a lover of long summer days, beautiful sunsets and perfect tanning weather, then Congo is most likely the best place for your next holiday. Located right on the equator, the Republic of Congo is well-known for its tropical weather.
6 / 7
Transport
There is no reliable public transportation system in the DRC. You should avoid all travel by public transportation. This doesn't leave a traveller with many options, but still it’s a great country to visit. International Air Travel can be possible throughout all the seasons.
7 / 7
Plan Your Trip
Want to book a vacation to DRC? A magical, wild and exciting country where gorilla treks and volcano hikes are the name of the game. Whether you're off for a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, DRC Safari packages make planning your trip simple and affordable.
1 / 7
Geography
The DRC lies on the equator and has borders with 9 African countries – Congo, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia & Angola. The DRC forms part of the Congo River Basin, which covers an area of almost 1,000,000 square kilometres (390,000 sq mi).
2 / 7
People
More than 200 African ethnic groups live in Congo; of these, Bantu peoples constitute a large majority of the country’s population. They entered the territory of modern Congo between the 10th and the 14th century from the west and north.
3 / 7
Money
US dollars are accepted everywhere and moneychangers are omnipresent in DRC's cities. Somewhat reliable, internationally linked ATMs are common in the large cities. The local currency, the Congolese franc (CDF). Credit cards are accepted in many DRC hotels, restaurants.
4 / 7
Activities
DRC safaris are certainly an almighty adventure for those willing to charter new territory and discover truly magical moments. Adventurous DRC activities includes Mountain gorilla trekking, climbing an active volcano, chimpanzee trekking and hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains.
5 / 7
Weather
If you are a lover of long summer days, beautiful sunsets and perfect tanning weather, then Congo is most likely the best place for your next holiday. Located right on the equator, the Republic of Congo is well-known for its tropical weather.
6 / 7
Transport
There is no reliable public transportation system in the DRC. You should avoid all travel by public transportation. This doesn't leave a traveller with many options, but still it’s a great country to visit. International Air Travel can be possible throughout all the seasons.
7 / 7
Plan Your Trip
Want to book a vacation to DRC? A magical, wild and exciting country where gorilla treks and volcano hikes are the name of the game. Whether you're off for a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, DRC Safari packages make planning your trip simple and affordable.
1 / 7
Activities
DRC safaris are certainly an almighty adventure for those willing to charter new territory and discover truly magical moments. Adventurous DRC activities includes Mountain gorilla trekking, climbing an active volcano, chimpanzee trekking and hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains.
2 / 7
People
More than 200 African ethnic groups live in Congo; of these, Bantu peoples constitute a large majority of the country’s population. They entered the territory of modern Congo between the 10th and the 14th century from the west and north.
3 / 7
Money
US dollars are accepted everywhere and moneychangers are omnipresent in DRC's cities. Somewhat reliable, internationally linked ATMs are common in the large cities. The local currency, the Congolese franc (CDF). Credit cards are accepted in many DRC hotels, restaurants.
4 / 7
Geography
The DRC lies on the equator and has borders with 9 African countries – Congo, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia & Angola. The DRC forms part of the Congo River Basin, which covers an area of almost 1,000,000 square kilometres (390,000 sq mi).
5 / 7
Weather
If you are a lover of long summer days, beautiful sunsets and perfect tanning weather, then Congo is most likely the best place for your next holiday. Located right on the equator, the Republic of Congo is well-known for its tropical weather.
6 / 7
Transport
There is no reliable public transportation system in the DRC. You should avoid all travel by public transportation. This doesn't leave a traveller with many options, but still it’s a great country to visit. International Air Travel can be possible throughout all the seasons.
7 / 7
Plan Your Trip
Want to book a vacation to DRC? A magical, wild and exciting country where gorilla treks and volcano hikes are the name of the game. Whether you're off for a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, DRC Safari packages make planning your trip simple and affordable.
1 / 7
Weather
If you are a lover of long summer days, beautiful sunsets and perfect tanning weather, then Congo is most likely the best place for your next holiday. Located right on the equator, the Republic of Congo is well-known for its tropical weather.
2 / 7
People
More than 200 African ethnic groups live in Congo; of these, Bantu peoples constitute a large majority of the country’s population. They entered the territory of modern Congo between the 10th and the 14th century from the west and north.
3 / 7
Money
US dollars are accepted everywhere and moneychangers are omnipresent in DRC's cities. Somewhat reliable, internationally linked ATMs are common in the large cities. The local currency, the Congolese franc (CDF). Credit cards are accepted in many DRC hotels, restaurants.
4 / 7
Geography
The DRC lies on the equator and has borders with 9 African countries – Congo, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia & Angola. The DRC forms part of the Congo River Basin, which covers an area of almost 1,000,000 square kilometres (390,000 sq mi).
5 / 7
Activities
DRC safaris are certainly an almighty adventure for those willing to charter new territory and discover truly magical moments. Adventurous DRC activities includes Mountain gorilla trekking, climbing an active volcano, chimpanzee trekking and hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains.
6 / 7
Transport
There is no reliable public transportation system in the DRC. You should avoid all travel by public transportation. This doesn't leave a traveller with many options, but still it’s a great country to visit. International Air Travel can be possible throughout all the seasons.
7 / 7
Plan Your Trip
Want to book a vacation to DRC? A magical, wild and exciting country where gorilla treks and volcano hikes are the name of the game. Whether you're off for a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, DRC Safari packages make planning your trip simple and affordable.
1 / 7
Transport
There is no reliable public transportation system in the DRC. You should avoid all travel by public transportation. This doesn't leave a traveller with many options, but still it’s a great country to visit. International Air Travel can be possible throughout all the seasons.
2 / 7
People
More than 200 African ethnic groups live in Congo; of these, Bantu peoples constitute a large majority of the country’s population. They entered the territory of modern Congo between the 10th and the 14th century from the west and north.
3 / 7
Money
US dollars are accepted everywhere and moneychangers are omnipresent in DRC's cities. Somewhat reliable, internationally linked ATMs are common in the large cities. The local currency, the Congolese franc (CDF). Credit cards are accepted in many DRC hotels, restaurants.
4 / 7
Geography
The DRC lies on the equator and has borders with 9 African countries – Congo, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia & Angola. The DRC forms part of the Congo River Basin, which covers an area of almost 1,000,000 square kilometres (390,000 sq mi).
5 / 7
Activities
DRC safaris are certainly an almighty adventure for those willing to charter new territory and discover truly magical moments. Adventurous DRC activities includes Mountain gorilla trekking, climbing an active volcano, chimpanzee trekking and hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains.
6 / 7
Weather
If you are a lover of long summer days, beautiful sunsets and perfect tanning weather, then Congo is most likely the best place for your next holiday. Located right on the equator, the Republic of Congo is well-known for its tropical weather.
7 / 7
Plan Your Trip
Want to book a vacation to DRC? A magical, wild and exciting country where gorilla treks and volcano hikes are the name of the game. Whether you're off for a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, DRC Safari packages make planning your trip simple and affordable.
1 / 7
Plan Your Trip
Want to book a vacation to DRC? A magical, wild and exciting country where gorilla treks and volcano hikes are the name of the game. Whether you're off for a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, DRC Safari packages make planning your trip simple and affordable.
2 / 7
People
More than 200 African ethnic groups live in Congo; of these, Bantu peoples constitute a large majority of the country’s population. They entered the territory of modern Congo between the 10th and the 14th century from the west and north.
3 / 7
Money
US dollars are accepted everywhere and moneychangers are omnipresent in DRC's cities. Somewhat reliable, internationally linked ATMs are common in the large cities. The local currency, the Congolese franc (CDF). Credit cards are accepted in many DRC hotels, restaurants.
4 / 7
Geography
The DRC lies on the equator and has borders with 9 African countries – Congo, the Central African Republic, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia & Angola. The DRC forms part of the Congo River Basin, which covers an area of almost 1,000,000 square kilometres (390,000 sq mi).
5 / 7
Activities
DRC safaris are certainly an almighty adventure for those willing to charter new territory and discover truly magical moments. Adventurous DRC activities includes Mountain gorilla trekking, climbing an active volcano, chimpanzee trekking and hikes in the Rwenzori Mountains.
6 / 7
Weather
If you are a lover of long summer days, beautiful sunsets and perfect tanning weather, then Congo is most likely the best place for your next holiday. Located right on the equator, the Republic of Congo is well-known for its tropical weather.
7 / 7
Transport
There is no reliable public transportation system in the DRC. You should avoid all travel by public transportation. This doesn't leave a traveller with many options, but still it’s a great country to visit. International Air Travel can be possible throughout all the seasons.
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DRC Safari
DRC Travel Guide
DRC Safari
Frequently Asked Questions
The dry seasons of December, January, and February are the Best Time To Visit DRC.
You must produce a visa issued by the nearest DRC Embassy to your country of residence. The easier way is to apply at the DRC embassy in your home country or country of residence.
Alternatively, you can let us process the visa on your behalf prior to commencement of your DRC Safaris.
Even though the official language Democratic Republic of Congo is French, there are a number of indigenous languages prevalently spoken in all parts of the country including Swahili, Lingala, Kikongo, and Tshiluba.
The DRC lies in two various time zone which is the West Africa Time (UTC+2) as well as the Central Africa Time (UTC+1)
Yes, though you have to be above eighteen years of age. You can purchase alcohol from the various supermarkets, food hubs, and bars.
Yes, tipping is accepted in DRC, though it’s not mandatory. The locals consider it as a polite way of appreciating the good service rendered to you. The amount however solely depends on you. Bear in mind that a 10% service charge is included in all your restaurant and hotel bills.
We do not recommend trying to obtain cash in DRC at this time. Instead, you can bring your cash. (either Uganda Shillings, Rwandan Francs, or US Dollars). Travelers’ cheques are not recommended as well.
It’s possible to visit parts of the DRC safely. Long gone those days when DRC was known to have a “heart of darkness”. Now DRC has opened its door to the whole world with open arms. DRC offers beautiful countryside and some of the continent’s most exciting trekking. But what will appeal you most is the warmth and genuine affection you’ll receive from its local people. However, the eastern region of the DRC is still a little troubled, so tour operators will arrange armed escorts to accompany travelers at all times.
DRC Safari
DRC Safari Itineraries
1 Day Entebbe Tour
Ziika Forest | Mabamba Wetland |Reptile Village
Uganda Day Trips
1 Day From $190
Half-day Entebbe Tour
Mabamba Wetland | Kigungu | Botanical Gardens
Uganda Day Trips
Half Day $ 115
Kampala Full Day Tour
Kampala City
Uganda Day Trips
Full Day Tours $170
Uganda Chimps, Wildlife & Fishing Safari
Entebbe | Murchison Falls National Park | Kibale Forest National Park | Kampala
Uganda Fishing Safaris
8 Days From $3135
8 Days Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti To Manyara
Arusha | Tarangire | Ngorongoro | Lake Manyara
Tanzania Wildlife Safari
8 Days From $ 4448
4 Days Explore Ngorongoro, Serengeti & Manyara
Arusha | Ngorongoro Conservation Area | Serengeti | Lake Manyara National Park
Tanzania Wildlife Safari
4 Days From $ 2030
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