Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) is a vast and adventurous destination in Central Africa where travelers should always be ready to expect the unexpected. With its stunning variety of landscapes—including towering mountain ranges, powerful waterfalls, serene lakes, winding rivers, and dense forests—the country offers a treasure trove of natural beauty and thrilling experiences. The road from Lubumbashi to Kinshasa is particularly favored by cyclists looking for a challenging ride, while mountaineers are drawn to the dramatic peaks and active volcanoes that make DR Congo a haven for adventure seekers.

For those passionate about wildlife and nature, DR Congo offers rich opportunities for hiking, trekking, and safari holidays. The Congo River—one of the world’s longest and most powerful rivers—extends over 3,000 miles and offers the thrill of canoeing through crocodile-inhabited waters. Adventure outfitters like East African Voyage organize activities in areas such as the Virunga Mountains, which are globally recognized for their climbing potential. These mountains, consisting of eight volcanoes along the Uganda and Rwanda borders, are part of the Albertine Rift within the Great Rift Valley. Although most of the volcanoes are dormant, Mount Nyamuragira and Mount Nyiragongo remain active and offer exciting yet challenging climbs. Along these rugged trails, climbers may encounter one of the world’s rarest creatures—the endangered mountain gorilla.

Cycling across DR Congo is not for the faint-hearted, given the country’s varied terrain and unpredictable road conditions. Yet for the adventurous, it’s an exhilarating way to experience the country. Bicycle Africa offers cultural cycling tours that allow travelers to explore villages, interact with locals, and soak in authentic Congolese life. For those who prefer to explore on foot, the abundance of forests makes DR Congo ideal for trekking. Okapi Tours and Travel Company, based in Goma, provides both individual and group nature tours. Upemba National Park offers incredible walking safaris for wildlife lovers, while Virunga National Park is known for its jagged mountains and diverse animal population, including hippos, antelopes, warthogs, and lions.

For a more relaxed adventure, visitors can enjoy some of the country’s notable beaches, such as Le Beach Ngobila in Kinshasa, Caribu in Goma, and beach areas in Inongo (Bandundu region). Experiencing the mighty Congo River by boat is also a must, and one popular way to do this is by renting a pirogue (dugout canoe) from the Kinkole Fish Market, then journeying down the river for a unique and immersive view of Congolese life.