13 Days Tour Discovering DR Congo

Are you interested an Authentic off-the-beaten-path African Trip, the 13 Days Tour Discovering DR Congo is the best trip for you to do. This trip will take you to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) offering a mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural diversity. Here is the detailed itinerary for 13 Days Tour Discovering DR Congo

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa

Upon arrival in Kinshasa, our representative guide will welcome you at Ndjili International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Kinshasa is the capital city of DRCongo and the fastest-growing city in Africa with almost 20 million people. Upon arrival at the hotel introduction to the country (DRCongo) and the city (Kinshasa). Dinner and overnight Parc de NSele or similar. Depending on the time of arrival a 1-hour tour on the Congo River can be organized.

Day 2: Game drive in the park of Nsele.

The N’sele Valley Park or Kingakati Park is an animal park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Located in the commune of Maluku, it is located a few minutes from Ndjili International Airport in the rural commune of Nsele in Kinshasa, on the road to Mbanzale. Covering 20,000 hectares, it was created by former president Joseph Kabila and his wife Olive Lembe dit Sifa.

In the park, you will have fresh and pure air, more and more animals in this park are multiplying. The animals that are already in this park that we can see: lions, impalas, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, rhinoceroses… For the moment, herbivores live in freedom. The lions, the crocodiles, the monitor lizards are in an enclosure. In the parc we have many activities or services that are available to tourists: Zip line, Kayak, Pedal boat Hiking, Horse riding, Cycle tourism Mountain biking, Swimming, Mini golf Playground, Team Building, Ugunduzi (Safari), Catering, Meetings and events, these days will be for the safari’s morning and afternoon.

Day 3: Kisantu Botanical Garden

After breakfast, depart for Zongo (the waterfalls) with a 3hours stopover in Kisantu (the botanical garden) created since 1892 by the Catholic missionary. The garden is made up of plants from all the parts of D.R.Congo and other tropical countries. The exceptional garden has more than 4000 species including among others a collection of palm trees with 92 different varieties and other collections of trees, flowers, plants…. Later proceed to Zongo you where will reach around 5pm. Overnight Zongo Seli Safari or similar.

Day 4: Zongo waterfalls

Zongo Falls are located on the Inkisi river in Central Kongo province, with a height of 65m and a flow of 650m3/sec. The falls offer you a spectacular landscape with very aquatic vegetation. The discharges of water falling on the rocks create a natural shower. After the visit proceed to the village of Mbanza Ngungu where we will visit the old train with the abandoned wagons and old residences of the former rulers (1884- 1960). Overnight: Mbuela Lodge or similar.

Day 5: Dimba Cave

Dimba is located at few kilometers from the town center Mbanza Ngungu. The cave has a prehistoric workshop very well preserved with a distance of more than a kilometer long. The visit takes around 1 hour and no body reached the very end of this curious caves that are very hard to reach. After the visit you proceed back to hotel for rest and overnight. Overnight at Mbuela Lodge or similar.

Day 6: Return to Kinshasa

After breakfast, drive to Kinshasa. Visit the National Museum (interesting works of traditional Congolese Art). In the afternoon we will meet the mystical Sapeurs around Victoire Square and listen to some Suku music (Congolese Rumba). Overnight: Hotel Platinum or similar

Day 7: Flight to Goma

Early in the morning, pick and drive to Ndjili International and fly to Goma. Upon arrival in Goma, transfer to your hotel. Depending on the arrival time city tour of Goma. Goma is a city of D.R.Congo and the fastest growing city in the country with almost 2 million people. Overnight: Kivu Lodge or similar.

Day 8: Transfer to Bukavu- DR Congo

Early in the morning, after a warm breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Bukavu. Bukavu is a city located in the South Kivu Province; the boat cruiser will take 3 hours. Upon arrival, transfer to Lwiro sanctuary for primates visit. After the visit proceed to Tshivanga for rest and overnight stay. Overnight: Tshivanga Headquarter.

Day 9: Gorilla habituation in Kahuzi Biega – DR Congo

In the morning, you will head for the memorable experience of Gorilla habituation. The Gorilla habituation is a process where Gorillas are trained to live closer to people while they are doing their day to day lives. This experience requires more endurance since it takes more time with the Gorilla family. You will not regret the experience effort once you meet the amazing Gorillas! Later in the afternoon you will return back to the head quarter for rest and overnight.

Day 10: Tchegera Island 

In the morning after a relaxed breakfast, drive to Bukavu where you will take a boat back to Goma and be transferred to Tchegera Island for rest and overnight stay.

Day 11: Leisure and exploration of the surroundings of Tchegera Island

After a sunrise breakfast, you will have leisure time at the Island admiring a spectacular view of the two active volcano Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira while doing some kayaking and swimming. In the afternoon you will set out for a two hours cruiser boat exploring the surroundings of the Island thereafter you will return back to the Island overnight.

Day 12: Goma city tour

After a warm breakfast, boat cruise back to Goma, where you will have the time to explore the city and learn about its history. Later in the afternoon you be driven to Goma Serena Hotel for rest and overnight.

Day 13: Transfer to Goma Airport for the return flight back home.

End of the trip

Trip package for 2 people using a double room per person USD 9,950

ARE INCLUDED

DRCONGO Tourist Visa

Ground transport

Domestic flight as per itinerary

Gorilla permit

English speaking coordinator-guide

Local guides

Ferry

Food mentioned in the itinerary Full Board

Local government taxes

Mineral water

Accommodation in hotel as mentioned in the itinerary

Here are some key aspects to consider when planning this 13 Days Tour Discovering DR Congo:

1. Visa and Entry Requirements

• Visa: Most travelers require a visa to enter DR Congo. We will help you apply for this Visa, this visa costs $400-500 per person.
• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

2. Health and Safety

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, rabies, and cholera.
• Malaria: DR Congo is a high-risk malaria area, so take prophylactic medication and use insect repellent and mosquito nets.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is highly recommended.

3. Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season: The best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. These periods offer the best weather for exploring the country’s natural attractions.

4. Key Attractions

• Virunga National Park: Home to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and active volcanoes like Mount Nyiragongo.
• Kahuzi-Biega National Park: Famous for its population of eastern lowland gorillas.
• Lola ya Bonobo: A sanctuary for orphaned bonobos located near Kinshasa.
• Congo River: The world’s second-largest river by discharge, offering opportunities for boat trips and wildlife viewing.
• Kinshasa: The capital city, offering vibrant markets, music, and cultural experiences.

5. Cultural Considerations

• Language: French is the official language. Lingala, Swahili, Kikongo, and Tshiluba are also widely spoken.
• Customs: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.

6. Transportation

• Internal Flights: Due to the size of the country and the poor condition of many roads, flying is often the best way to travel long distances.
• Road Travel: If traveling by road, 4×4 vehicles are recommended. Road conditions can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
• Boat Travel: River transport is common along the Congo River and its tributaries.

7. Accommodation

• Cities: Major cities like Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Goma offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.
• Parks: Lodges and campsites are available in national parks, often providing guided tours and wildlife safaris.

8. Currency

• Local Currency: The Congolese franc (CDF). US dollars are widely accepted in major cities.
• ATMs and Credit Cards: Available in major cities but often unreliable. Carry sufficient cash for rural areas.

9. Communication

• Internet and Mobile: Internet access can be limited. Local SIM cards are available for purchase.

10. Responsible Travel

• Respect Wildlife: Follow guidelines for wildlife viewing to minimize impact.
• Support Local Communities: Purchase local goods and services to support the economy.

By planning for this 13 Days Tour Discovering DR Congo ahead and being mindful of the local conditions and customs, your trip to DR Congo can be a safe and enriching experience when you book it through the DR Congo local tour operator Eco Adventure Safaris. Or WhatsApp +256740829909