Is it safe to travel in Congo?

Congo has been dealing with a series of civil wars and banditry for decades. It is mainly the Kivu region and Ituri that are plagued by violence. Unfortunately, this is also the most beautiful region in Congo. The Virunga Park is therefore sometimes closed for months or years. It is therefore difficult to predict whether your trip can continue. Gorilla viewing in Kahuzi Biega is almost always possible and the cities of Bukavu and Goma are generally safe to visit.

The Salonga Park and Garamba Park are currently (2022) safe to visit and travel in Bas-Congo, Kinshasa, Katanga as well as the pygmy visits and bonobo safaris are also possible. Congo-Brazzaville and the Dzanga-Sangha Park are also ok to visit, as well as Rwanda and Uganda. In war-free zones, security can be compared to Nairobi or South-Africa. 

Keep in mind that you keep a close eye on your belongings and always deal with intrusive corrupt authorities in a friendly, yet firm way.

Can I drink tap water in Congo?

Tap water in Congo is NOT drinkable. Always drink bottled water.

What power outlets does Congo Use?

Congo uses the same sockets as in Western-Europe. It is a good idea to bring a multiple plug, as sometimes there is only 1 socket in a room. Be sure to bring a power bank, enough batteries and a flashlight as the power often goes out.

What should I bring for my trip to Congo?

Be sure to bring sunscreen, a cap and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Also bring DEET and long pants and closed shoes to protect yourself from the mosquitoes. In some cases it is best to bring a mosquito net. If you go into the jungle, it is good to also bring a pair of boots, in addition to your walking shoes. Be sure to bring a flashlight, enough batteries and a power bank. Do not forget your basic medication, as well as your yellow booklet with proof of vaccination against yellow fever. A mouth mask is mandatory for visiting gorillas and bonobos.

Is Congo a Malaria-zone?

All of Congo is a malaria zone. It is important to take preventive measures.

What vaccinations do I need for Congo? Do I need malaria pills for Congo?

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. It is recommended to repeat your injection against DTP and typhoid fever. Hepatitis A and B is also recommended. It is best to talk to your doctor about this, also for malaria pills.

Do I need a PCR-test for Congo?

As of July 2022, non-vaccinated people still need a PCR-test to enter Congo.

Do I need a visa for Congo?

You need a visa for all countries on our website: Congo-Brazzaville, Congo-Kinshasa, Central African Republic, Rwanda and Uganda.

Why is traveling in Congo so expensive?

It is often mistakenly believed that when a country is poor, prices are also low. Many people think that traveling in Africa is cheap, but this is far from the truth. Congo, together with Gabon, Central African Republic and Angola is one of the most expensive destinations in Africa. This is because there is almost no infrastructure in the country; cars need regular repair and maintenance; local fuel prices are expensive; there are very high taxes on everything: as well as extremely expensive prices for hotels, planes and boats. We realize that these trips are very expensive and unfortunately it is only the happy few who can visit Congo. Be careful with websites that offer cheap travel in Congo, there is a very real chance that you will be scammed.

Is Virunga open for visitors? Can I go gorilla tracking in Virunga?

As of August 2022, Virunga is still not open for visitors due to insecurity in the region. It is not possible to visit Virunga or to go on a gorilla safari in Virunga the normal way. We can however get special permission to go climb the Nyiragongo or go track gorillas in Virunga as we have good relations with the park. This would require at least two – three weeks notice and the prices will be easily 3 times higher.

Is the Nyiragongo Volcano open for visitors?

As of August 2022, the Nyiragongo Volcano is closed for tourists and it is not possible to climb the Nyiragongo Volcano or to visit Virunga National Park to see mountain gorillas. We can get a special permission for you to climb the Nyiragongo. As this normally is a scheduled group activity and this would be private and with armed guards and special permits, the price would be very steep. We would need at least two to three weeks notice.