Best Places to Visit in the Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains one of Africa’s most enigmatic and adventurous destinations. Vast, untamed, and richly endowed with natural wonders, Congo is a land where rainforests stretch endlessly, volcanoes rumble with fire, rivers roar with power, and wildlife thrives in some of the most remote corners of the continent. While travel here requires patience and a spirit of adventure, the rewards are immense—offering experiences that few other countries in Africa can match.
Virunga National Park – Land of Gorillas and Volcanoes
Perhaps the most famous destination in Congo is Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, making it one of the very few places in the world where travelers can trek into misty forests and sit quietly in the presence of these gentle giants. Beyond gorillas, Virunga dazzles with its active volcanoes—Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira—which dominate the horizon. Nyiragongo, with its vast lava lake (before the 2021 eruption), offered one of the most spectacular natural sights on Earth, and though its summit treks are currently paused, the mountain remains a symbol of Congo’s raw power and beauty.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park – Eastern Lowland Gorillas
For those seeking a different gorilla trekking experience, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the place to go. Located near Bukavu on the shores of Lake Kivu, this UNESCO-listed park is home to the eastern lowland gorillas, the largest of all gorilla subspecies. Trekking here is less crowded than in Rwanda or Uganda, and the forested slopes of the Mitumba Mountains provide a dramatic setting for wildlife encounters. The park is also rich in birdlife, primates, and rare plant species, making it an all-encompassing rainforest adventure.
Mount Nyiragongo – Congo’s Fiery Giant
One of the most dramatic features of eastern Congo, Mount Nyiragongo has long captured the imagination of adventurers. Its summit crater once hosted the world’s largest lava lake, a bubbling cauldron of molten fire that glowed brightly at night, creating an otherworldly spectacle. Though treks to the summit remain suspended after its last eruption in 2021, Nyiragongo continues to be a powerful presence in the region and a reminder of the geological forces that shape the Great Rift Valley.
Congo River – The Artery of a Nation
The mighty Congo River is Africa’s second-longest river and its deepest, carving a dramatic course through the heart of the country. It is both a lifeline and a wonder, with roaring rapids near Kinshasa and Brazzaville and wide, tranquil stretches where traditional fishing villages dot the banks. For travelers, boat journeys on the Congo River reveal the rhythm of life along its waters, where trade, transport, and culture have flourished for centuries.
Salonga National Park – Africa’s Great Rainforest
Deep in the central basin lies Salonga National Park, Africa’s largest tropical rainforest reserve. This vast wilderness, accessible only by river, shelters some of the world’s most elusive species, including bonobos (our closest relatives alongside chimpanzees), forest elephants, and Congo peafowls. A journey here is one of true exploration, into a landscape barely touched by tourism but rich in biodiversity and conservation importance.
Garamba National Park – Savannahs of the North
In the far northeast, Garamba National Park showcases a different side of Congo’s wilderness. This UNESCO site is a land of open savannahs, woodlands, and rivers, once home to the last wild population of northern white rhinos. Today, it remains a haven for elephants, giraffes, hippos, and lions. Its remoteness and wild character make it an exceptional destination for travelers who crave safaris far from the beaten path.
Idjwi Island and Lake Kivu – Cultural and Scenic Beauty
On Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, lies Idjwi Island, a peaceful and culturally rich destination. Known as “the forgotten island,” Idjwi offers tranquility, panoramic lake views, and opportunities to engage with local communities. It is the perfect place to slow down after the intensity of Congo’s forests and volcanoes, with warm hospitality and natural beauty defining the experience.
