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Troop of Bonobo sat on grass, Democratic Republic of Congo

Democratic Republic of Congo Travel Guide

Wildlife thrives in landscapes that span from dense jungle to snow-capped peaks

Welcome to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the mighty Congo River winds through the world’s second-largest rainforest and mountain gorillas roam misty volcanic highlands.

This DRC travel guide will help you navigate the country’s complex beauty. From tracking gorillas in Virunga to exploring the Congo Basin’s incredible wildlife, we’ll share how you can best experience this challenging yet rewarding destination.

Whether you’re planning to visit Nyiragongo’s lava lake, discover endemic species or understand local cultures, you’ll find practical DRC travel advice and insider tips throughout these pages.

Nyiragongo molten lava, Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo — Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo

Acacia Tree, D.R.Congo — Democratic Republic of Congo

Eastern lowland (Grauer's) gorilla, Kahuzi Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo — Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo

Ideas for a Democratic Republic of Congo Safari

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kahuzi-Biega, home to Grauer’s gorillas, as well as a wealth of bird and animal life
Take a helicopter safari over the Virunga Mountains, spending time on active volcanoes
Head north, into Virunga National Park’s savannah grasslands and stay at Lulimbi Camp, beside the Ishasha River
Visit Idjwi Island, located in the centre of Lake Kivu and untouched by conflict but isolated from the outside world
Meet the park’s anti-poaching bloodhounds and go chimp trekking from the beautiful Mikeno Lodge.

Bonobo with Stick, Democratic Republic of the Congo — Bonobo, Democratic Republic of Congo

Discover extraordinary in the DRC

Visit Kinshasa’s Ethnographic Museum, which includes the original boat that Stanley used to travel down the nearby rapids
Head to Lola Ya Bonobo, a sanctuary for orphaned bonobos – indigenous to the DRC
Set off deep into the DRC’s interior, heading to the Lomako Reserve in search of wild troops of bonobos

Fallen Rangers textiles women — Fallen Rangers, Congo

Sustainability

Centre for Wildlife Studies - Fallen Rangers

We support projects right across the planet. For example, in the Democratic Republic of Congo we have donated to the Centre for Wildlife Studies. The Rangers of Virunga National Park lay down their lives to protect the amazing biodiversity of the park; which means, in turn, the park has a duty to look after those who are left behind. In 2016, Virunga National Park, in collaboration with the NAT GEO Rainforest, developed the Widows Workshop to protect and empower the widows of the rangers.

When planning your trip speak to our experts about how you can also support the destinations you are visiting.

Explore Democratic Republic of Congo

Kahuzi Biega National Park
Virunga National Park

From the blog

Thoughts. Opinions. Experiences

Client Reviews

DRC: King Congo – Rear of the Year

Nicky Dunnington-Jefferson

Written and Photographed by our client, Nicky Dunnington-Jefferson. He was big, very big...the biggest of the big, in fact. And he…

Read Article

Culture and Etiquette

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to over 200 ethnic groups, with Luba, Kongo, Mongo, Tutsi and Hutu being the main ones. Each group has its own customs, traditions and languages which explains the rich cultural mosaic of the country. Although the official language is French, locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak basic phrases in the local languages, for example, ‘mbote’ (hello in Lingala and Kikongo), ‘jambo’ (hello in Swahili).

Having experienced political instability and conflict in the past, be sensitive to this and avoid discussing sensitive topics surrounding this.

On a lighter note, the DRC has a vibrant tradition of music and dance is a major part of cultural life, being home to the Congolese rumba. Traditional drumming and oral storytelling feature in day-to-day activities. Congolese people are known for their warmth and hospitality and will want to share this with you.

Dress code
Casual and outdoor attire is acceptable, but dress modestly especially when visiting religious sites. Bright colours are popular in Congolese fashion.

Photography
It is respectful to always ask permission before taking photos of local people.

Please be aware that you are travelling in a country where the services and transport structures are very different from our own western viewpoints.

Frequently asked questions about Democratic Republic of Congo

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Where can I see gorillas in DRC?

Can Steppes arrange trips to areas outside of eastern DRC?

Why Choose Steppes?

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