The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), located in Central Africa, was previously known as Zaire. In area it is the second largest country in Africa.

Travellers visiting the DRC will have a lot to explore including rainforests and wildlife. They can also enjoy city life as well as the historical sites. Brazzaville is a great place for tourists to visit Brazzaville Basilica, the marketplace, the Congo River Rapids and the Lefini Faunal Reserve.

If you enjoy cruises, the DRC has a tour that takes you down the Congo River. It starts from the capital of Kisangani to the city of Kinshasa. This 1750-kilometre cruise is ideal if you have a lot of free time on your hands.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a great destination for tourists. There’s so much to explore. Whether you travel by train or by air, the DRC awaits you.

Do I Need Vaccines for the Democratic Republic of Congo?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Democratic Republic of Congo. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Democratic Republic of Congo: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio and tetanus.

Yellow fever is still a problem in the DRC. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country.

Zika is present in the DRC. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to the region. Steps should be taken to prevent mosquito bites and sexual exposure to the virus.

Malaria is a serious mosquito-borne disease which is present in the DRC. Antimalarials are the best form of prevention alongside repellents and mosquito netting.

Dengue and chikungunya are also present. Both are only preventable through repellents, netting and other anti-mosquito measures.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.

 

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

Visas are required for the DRC and must be obtained before arrival. Passports are required to be valid for an additional six months at the time of entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country. If you do not have proof of vaccination, you may be vaccinated on site, quarantined or returned to your previous location.

A departure tax of about $50 USD plus 5,000 Congolese Francs must be paid upon checking into a flight out of the country.

Democratic Republic of the Congo Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to the DR Congo?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

The DRC has an equatorial and tropical climates making it hot and humid. The average temperature around 26 degrees in the low central basin and 18 degrees at altitudes of 1,500 metres. The best time to travel to the DRC is during dry season.

Here is what to expect from the climate in DRC:

• Equatorial Climate – The temperature is stable throughout the year. There is a lot of rain during the months of April-May, and October-November. The least months with rainfall are January-February and June-July.
• Tropical Climate – This occurs to the north and south of the equatorial zone. The climate becomes tropical and the rainfall averages between 100 to 170 centimetres per year. The temperature is lower in the winter dry season but higher during the summer rainy season. The spring is the end of the dry season.
• The Mountains – In the east the DRC experiences the East African Rift that has created many lakes. The mountains affect precipitation, causing the west to have more rain whilst the east remains dry.

The coast experiences fog and low clouds because of the cool sea current. Travellers exploring the southern DRC will feel the dry season is more evident.

How Safe is the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

There are some parts of the DRC travellers should not visit. The eastern part of the DRC is not stable because of rebel and military groups. Violence has occurred including hurting civilians, killing, rape, and kidnapping. Pillaging is still happening in places like North Kivu, South Kivu, Tanganyika, Haut, Lomami, Ituri, Bas-Uele and Haut-Uele. Civil unrest is ongoing.

Travellers should stay away from demonstrations and large crowds. Protests can turn from peaceful to violent at any moment. People also need to be cautious of roadblocks and security forces. When you’re motoring, you should keep doors and windows locked. Don’t let soldiers get into the car with you. It’s important not to get into a vehicle with anyone.

If you need to communicate with a legitimate officer, you should ensure your doors are locked. Only leave your window open a little bit to communicate with the officer.

You need to have your identity papers with you to show the constable if the situation calls for them. It will make things easier if you follow the officer’s commands and if threatened, don’t resist.

If a crime occurs or you’re a victim of a crime, you should report it to the British embassy in the region.

 

Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage

Travellers who want to connect with the wildlife of the DRC should visit the gorilla orphanage. This orphanage can be found on the grounds of Mikeno Lodge. The Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage was named after a silverback killed defending the Rugendo group against poachers in 2007. Four gorillas now live in the orphanage and two of them, Ndakasi and Ndeze, survived the massacre.

Travellers who stay at the hotel have access to the gorilla orphanage for free. It is open from 8am-4pm, and it’s an experience tourists should not miss out on when they travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

What Should I Take To the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

When you’re planning your trip to the DRC, there are some things you should consider taking with you.

• Packing – Sun cream, insect repellent, cotton clothing that is comfortable, good walking shoes, sunnies, and a camera with plenty of film are some of the essentials you’ll need for your trip.
• Currency/Money – International currency, especially the dollar and Euro, is widely accepted. There are also moneychangers available in many cities in the DRC. ATMS, that are internationally linked, are available in the larger cities, but they are not that reliable. When travellers tip, a 5% to 7% tip is expected. Most taxi drivers don’t expect tips but some ask for them. A good tip to have on you is CDF500, and it’s good to carry cash just in case of emergencies.
• Medicines and Supplies – Prescription medicines, medical supplies, over the counter medicines, a first aid kit, and supplies to prevent injury and illness are important things to consider on your trip to the DRC.

It doesn’t hurt to be prepared on your trip so ensure you take everything you need to travel and stay healthy.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

If you are in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy Kinshasa
83, Avenue Roi Baudouin
Gombe
Kinshasa
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Telephone: +243 81 556 6200. If the Embassy number is not available please ring +44 1908 516 666
Emergency Phone: 243 81 556 6200 or +44 1908 516666
Fax: +243 81 346 4291
Email: Kinshasa.consular@fco.gov.uk

Ready to start your next journey? Ring us up at or book online now!

 

On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
What is the Climate Like in the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
How Safe is the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
What Should I Take To the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Democratic Republic of the Congo