DRC is a vast country and rich in economic resources. But, until recently it was under the clutches of civil war and corruption. Here is all the necessary Practical Information For DRC provided by Gazelle Safaris Africa to help you gather as much info as you can before planning your DRC Safari Tours.
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
The Political Context Of DRC
The DRC is still recovering from the conflicts of the 1990s. After several postponements, Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo—the son of Etienne Tshisekedi, the country’s long-standing opposition leader—won the December 2018 election. He succeeds Joseph Kabila who had been at the country’s helm for 18 years.
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.
Border Security Of DRC
- Enter via Goma and Bukavu, If you are traveling to the DRC. It is risky to overland from Uganda, Rwanda, or Burundi. Always be extremely careful at crossing points.
- The border crossings between DRC and Rwanda at Gisenyi/Goma and Cyangugu/Bukavu are currently open between 6 am and 6 pm. But they can close on short notice. So, you shouldn’t rely on them as a point of exit from the DRC.
- Also, the border with Angola can also be subject to closure at short notice. Therefore you must have the correct documentation to enter the country.
Visa
It is no longer possible to buy a short-term pass at the border to enter the country. 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.
DRC Local Laws And Customs
- Go through updated DRC travel advice before traveling and get advice locally when you arrive
- Mind you, the local laws apply to you as a visitor. So you’re expected to follow them.
- Always show respect to the local customs, traditions, and practices as your behavior may come across as improper, hostile, or even illegal.
Health & Safety In DRC
Medical Emergency Facilities
- Maison Medicale Du Centre (MMC), 20 Avenue Kamina, Goma, DRC, Telephone: +243 80 84 20 442 or 99 77 57 226 or 80 85 92 778
- Centre Prive d’Urgence (CPU), Corner of Avenue Commerce and Bas-Congo, Kinshasa-Gombe, DRC, Telephone: + 243 89 50 302. Open 24 hours for emergency treatment.
- CMM Emergency Medical Centre, Avenue 48 de la Mongala, Kinshasa, DRC, Telephone: +243 81 884 1774, Offers general medical services.
- Centre Medical de Kinshasa (CMK), Avenue Wagenia No 168, Kinshasa-Gombe, DRC, Main Telephone: +243 89 50 300 or +243 99 82 65004, Emergency number: + 243 90 884 0277. Open 24 hours. Offers general and emergency medical services.
Travel Insurance
Gazelle Safaris Africa strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains, and legal costs. Double-check the exclusions and, in particular, coverage of the activities you wish to partake.
Additionally, we cover all our clients with AMREF flying Doctors for emergency medical evacuation. Kindly note this is not available for clients traveling to DRC Congo.
Health Certification
A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you are arriving in DRC from an infected area.
Vaccinations
A number of vaccinations are recommended before arriving in DRC.
Malaria
Malaria is endemic in tropical Africa. So take all necessary precautions and protections.
For more information about DRC Safaris and information regarding DRC Travel Guide or any other necessary details, visit Gazelle Safaris Africa today.
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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