Congo, the dark heart of Africa, a mythical name that evokes images of deep forests, mighty rivers and mysterious animals like the gorilla and the okapi. Its dark history, difficult terrain, impenetrable forests and many local factors that make travel very difficult, make it one of the least visited countries in the world and one of the last great adventures. The bad reputation of the country certainly does not help and it is indeed not easy to visit this destination.

Contrary to what most people think, there are several stable regions in Congo with a range of unique experiences. After the Belgians left, the Congo became Zaire, ruled by Mobutu, one of the most eccentric rulers our world has ever known. The country was booming, but in the mid-1970s things changed and things got worse for the country. After the reign of the Kabila, it is now the turn of Tshisekedi and his Belgian-Congolese entourage who now lead the country. Calm reigns in the capital and the region of Bas-Congo, located under Kinshasa, is ideal for exploring the country.

Our journey begins from the bustling city of Kinshasa, located next to the Congo River, which has an estimated population of between 14 and 17 million, depending on sources. We explore the bustling city life, visit the majestic Congo Rapids, the National Museum and also dive into the nightlife in search of African rhythms.

During our trip we will visit different sites such as waterfalls but also vestiges of the colonial era such as cathedrals, monasteries, old locomotives, as well as Stanley’s boat, forgotten by humanity and known to a small number of people. We walk to the Atlantic Ocean, where we visit the beach and the mangroves and look for manatees.

It will be a journey full of new impressions, ideas, wonders and experiences. A unique opportunity to experience one of Africa’s most fascinating cultures. However, be prepared mentally that traveling to Congo is not the same as traveling to Kenya, Uganda or South Africa. As well as we prepare for our trip, always expect the unexpected: sags causing serious delays; electricity going out; an overbooked hotel, which forces you to look for another hotel at the last moment, etc. In addition to your power bank, mosquito repellent and flashlight, it is also important to bring a good dose of humor and patience and go with the rhythm of the country. Malembe, malembe: slowly, everything in its time and everything will be fine.

For this formula, we advise you to arrive on a Thursday.

Day 1: Arrival in Kinshasa (Thu)

Arrival at Kinshasa airport where we will be welcomed by the team and transferred to the hotel. Accommodation at the procure (if available).

Day 2: Exploration of the capital (Friday)

After breakfast we head to the rapids and also visit the boat that Stanley used to explore the Congo (if possible). If possible, we will also visit the Belgian schools, the botanical garden, the Academy of Fine Arts, the embassy district next to the Congo river and the national museum. In the afternoon we eat a local meal at the French Institute. After our adventures in the city, we rest for a while at the hotel and in the evening we immerse ourselves in the nightlife. We start with a perfectly grilled chicken with plantains, accompanied by a good cold local beer.

Accommodation at the procure (if available). (breakfast included)

Day 3: Relaxation at the N’sele river and camping on the Batéké plateau

In the morning we go to N’sele and take a boat on the Nsele river to the Congo river where we take a tour. In the afternoon we sit down for a local buffet set on a beautiful clear blue river, perfect for swimming and relaxing. In the evening we go camping in the Bateke-Plateau, where we stay in chalets or tents for the next two nights. (all meals included)

Day 4: Batéké Plateau

Today we explore Bombo Lumene and go for a swim in the local river. We eat local dishes and there is also a campfire. We stay here one more night. (all meals included)

Day 5: Zongo

We get up at 5am to avoid the huge traffic jams around Kinshasa. We drive for about six hours to Zongo, where we visit three different sites with waterfalls. In the evening, we sleep in the charming chalets of the estate. (breakfast included)

Day 6: Kisantu

We head to the charming town of Kisantu. There you will find a beautiful cathedral built in orange brick, surrounded by various colonial buildings such as monasteries. After visiting the historic center, we head to the National Botanical Garden, a huge estate with an impressive collection of powerful trees and plants and where we will take a beautiful and long walk. In the evening we sleep in a local hotel in Mbanza-Ngungu. (breakfast included)

Day 7: The old trains of Mbanza-Ngungu

We start our day by exploring some caves where we find blind fish, followed by a visit to the Mbanza-Ngungu station where we find several trains from the colonial era. We also visit the center and also some historical buildings. We spend the night in Mbanza-Ngungu in the same hotel. (breakfast included)

Day 8: Inga

We continue our route towards Inga, where we find the huge dam of the power station. We have a complete tour with a beautiful view of the river. This is a very unique visit that requires special permission. Overnight in the houses of the power station. (If not available, we will sleep in Matadi, which will increase the price by 120 usd per room)

Day 9: Muanda

We drive a few more hours to the ocean and have a free afternoon at the beach. With the surrounding greenery and the many palm trees, this beach is very different from what we are used to in other countries. It is ideal for a walk or to lie in the sun. In the evening, we enjoy a plate of grilled local prawns or fresh fish. We sleep in a local hotel. (breakfast included)

Day 10: Mangrove National Park

The mangroves are a protected national park and are home to countless birds and animals. This is where the Congo River empties into the ocean. A vast area with countless streams meandering through the greenery. We leave by boat at the bottom of the park and also visit a number of islands inhabited by local people. In the afternoon, we eat a delicious lunch: soup made from local shellfish, something you’ve probably never had! In the afternoon, we return to our hotel. (breakfast and lunch included)

Day 11: Boma

In the morning we visit the ancient capital. We visit the baobab, the church and a number of old houses and residences and also have a drink at the Auberge du Vieux Port, a relic of better times, and with a beautiful view of the Congo River. In the evening we spend the night in Matadi. (breakfast included)

Day 12: Kimpese Falls

After breakfast we leave for Kimpese. While our tents are set up, we head to the falls and take a short hike. In the evening, we make a campfire and enjoy the barbecue prepared for us. (dinner and breakfast included)

Day 13: Return to Kinshasa

Today, we still have a long way ahead of us. In the afternoon, it is already time to return to Kinshasa, where we will arrive in the evening, tired but satisfied. We will return to the same hotel. (breakfast included)

Day 14: Visiting the bonobos

After our PCR test, we head to Lola Ya Bonobo, a successful rehabilitation project for bonobos just outside Kinshasa. It’s an oasis of tranquility and the perfect opportunity to get to know these fascinating animals that can only be found in the Congo. We take a nice walk and receive an explanation from the enthusiastic employees. We return to Kinshasa in the afternoon. If you wish, you can join us this evening in the capital to discover the local popular districts.

Day 15: Return flight 

Today it is time to say goodbye and we will return to N’Djili airport.

*** If another PCR test is needed to return , you will have to stay an extra day in Kinshasa!!

We offer two formulas for this trip: midrange and budget. In Kinshasa we stay in a simple but clean budget hotel in the middle of the city. If you want a more comfortable and luxurious hotel, we can suggest Rotana or Elais (Belgian property) which are the best hotels in town. You can also opt for an upgrade in Muanda and Zongo. However, budget hotels are all good, clean and safe.

Make sure that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever and that you have your vaccination card with you, that you have also been vaccinated against COVID and that you have the necessary PCR test results with you if necessary if the airline takes you Ie ask. We are not responsible for delayed or canceled flights. We try to follow the program as best we can, but keep in mind that this can always change and some flexibility is needed.

Included:
– Accommodation
– All activities and entrance fees
– Professional guide
– Transportation
– Breakfast and meals at Bombo Lumene

Not included:
– All other meals
– PCR test
– Airport tax
– Drinks
– Visa
– Flights

Traveling to Congo is very expensive due to poor infrastructure. Many of our trips only become affordable from 3 to 4 people. We also offer group visits for several formulas. You can also request a group visit yourself, please contact us. Our prices are based on current circumstances, but these are subject to change and are primarily target prices. All prices are based on a shared room. If you want a single room, there will be an additional charge. Please note that it is not allowed to share a room with a person of the same sex in Congo. We are of course sorry for this and do not agree with this, but have no influence on this. We are not responsible for the consequences if our customers do not comply.

Accommodation is in budget and midrange hotels. If you want a more luxurious formula, let us know.

Check out our group trips to Congo to see if this trip (or a similar trip) is also listed as a group trip with a fixed departure.