Beautiful Places to Visit in Congo

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Even though the Democratic Republic of Congo was ravaged by civil war for some time, the country is now slowly transforming.  Located in Central Africainfo-icon this nation that got its name from the Congo River is also a dance nation with the popular Congolese “Lingala” dance.    

Below we have highlighted some safe areas perfect for you as a tourist. For nature and wildlife lovers then this is the trip for you.  Be adventurous and let’s discover some places to visit in the Congo.

#1 Goma

Places to Visit in the Congo

Located on the shores of Lake Kivu, this city can be toured in a day.  You can take a guided local taxi combined with a walking tour to experience the most of this city.  Visit the local markets and buy some artifacts and local fabrics, see monuments and the local restaurants, also check out the Goma port with ships usually hanging around there.

To complete your tour why not relax at the touristic restaurant with a lovely view of Lake Kivu either for a sumptuous meal or just a drink. Pass by the Kilijiwe spot which means big stone in English, this stone was formed by lava during the volcanic eruption years back, and it remained as a cultural landmark. You can also take a stroll at the public beach known as Plage de Peuple.  

As Most of the city was covered in Lava when Nyiragongo volcano erupted, you are bound to see construction still going on many years later.  To access this city, you can fly directly into Congo, or access it through one of the neighboring countries Rwandainfo-icon or Ugandainfo-icon.

One main annual event which happens up to this day is the Congo International Film Festival which brings together artists from around the world with various creative talents in regards to the film industry and to preach peace too.  Many people flock the city during this time bringing a lively vibe for eight days.

#2 Virunga National Park

Little gorilla in Virunga National park

This Africa’s oldest national park formed in 1925 has an area of 7800 square kilometers and is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in the Congo.  It is such a diverse park with forests, swamps, an active volcano, lava plains, and wildlife. This park was on the blink of closure and disappearance due to many economic factors, and though poaching is at a minimal, the government still struggles to keep poachers away completely.  

Fortunately, the government took measures to reinstate it, and it is currently well maintained ready for you to explore. The national park hosts a series of animals, such as lions, elephants, giraffes, chimpanzees and more. The parks undisputed highlight is the endangered mountain gorillas, which is the main wildlife feature here.

Gorillas are such amazing animals to spend time with, and they have human-like habits. The guides will take you on the trails for a guided tour. With its excellent biodiversity, the thick forest has a lot to offer including many bird species to watch and reptiles. This is one of the best places to see Gorillas in their natural habitat in all of Africa.

#3 Mount Nyiragongo

An active volcano called Mount Nyiragongo

This is a very active volcano about 2km in length and contains a lava lake.  It has had two devastating volcanic eruptions in recent history.  It spewed its lava into the neighboring city of other surroundings causing damage but most of the lava was directed to the forests and destruction was considerably less.  

The hike through the mountain I guess is for the real daredevils.  It is a very strenuous hike, and with the loose lava gravels, you have to be extra careful not to fall off.  There are different sections, and your guides give you information on how to tackle each.  Once you get to the top, some cabins for your overnight stay will be waiting with food and much-needed warmth available.  

The trek is so worth it when you get to see the colorful, lovely lava lake and even hear the bubbling sounds.  What an awesome experience to be added to your list of places to visit in the Congo.  If you are not the daring hiker, just take a back seat and click some photos from the designated safe ground level areas.

#4 Zongo Falls

Zongo falls

Situated 130km from Kinshasa in the city of Zongo lies the Zongo falls, a natural landscape which has become a top destination for tourists.  Please note the road leading to the falls is a bit rough and requires a powerful four-wheel drive.  

Once here be ready for a little hiking and walking to get to one of the selected viewpoints.  With the water gushing down from a 65m height forming such wonderful clouds, the sounds and the serene atmosphere are enough to make you want to stay.

Safe places to visit in Congo

You can now see this Francophone nation with English speakers too has its kind of treats to offer despite the civil wars it has gone through.  When you think of places to visit in the Congo, think culture, nature, and music, and you are good to go!

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