Democratic Republic of Congo Travel Guide

Overview

The Democractic Republic of Congo (DRC) (formerly Zaire) is the largest country in Central Africa both geographically and by population. Covered primarily in lush, green rain forest, the heart of DRC is comparable to the Amazon rain forest (the only rain forest larger than that of DRC). Due to its turbulent and tragic past, the DRC is still in a phase of recovery, so doesn’t suit travellers seeking a luxury safari experience for the time being. Those willing to brave the rustic charm of the DRC, however, will be richly rewarded as this beautiful country boasts smoking volcanoes towering above rain forests, impressive Mount Nyiragongo, an active lava lake, and the chance to view majestic gorillas in their natural habitat.

Virunga National Park, located along the Albertine Rift, is one of the oldest protected areas in Africa, as well as one of the most bio-diverse places on the planet. The park is an adventurer’s dream with its dense, green jungles, fiery lava lake, expansive savanna plains and glacier-covered mountain tops. Safari through the wilderness spotting elephants, lions, hippos, and giant forest hogs. Summit Mount Nyiragongo, an active strato volcano and watch the volcanic lake churn and bubble. If you’re brave enough, climb the 5, 109 m Rwendzori Mountain, emerging to view the largest glaciers in Africa. One of the most unforgettable experiences in Virunga is of course a visit to the peaceful, forested slopes in which fascinating and highly endangered gorillas go about their lives.

One of the largest parks in the country is Kahuzi-Biega National Park, a vast area of primary tropical forest dominated by two breathtaking extinct volcanoes, ‘Kahuzi’ and ‘Biega’. This incredible park also boasts over 250 gorillas, one of the last groups of the eastern lowland gorilla left on earth. Aside from gorillas, the park is also home to over 130 species of mammals and 340 species of birds. Expect to see wildlife such as the eastern chimpanzee, owl-faced monkey, bush elephant, civet cat and bush buffalo in these parts.

Garamba National Park, one of Africa’s oldest parks, is the last stronghold for the largest population of elephants, the last remaining white rhinos and the last remaining Kordofan giraffes in DRC. This is the land of grasslands, woodlands and expansive savanna plains, as well as forests and swamps. The park is also the home of savanna lions, antelope, chimpanzee, hyena and hippo. Enjoy bird watching, boat cruises, fishing and wildlife safaris as you explore this spectacular park.