UK
Untamed and Unforgettable
From volcanic peaks and rainforest treks to gorilla encounters and vibrant cities, the DRC offers raw, breathtaking adventure. It’s a destination for UK travellers who crave off-the-beaten-path exploration and cultural depth.
Air Travel
Flights from London to Kinshasa typically take 10–12 hours with one stop. Domestic flights are essential for reaching cities like Goma, Lubumbashi, and Kisangani.
Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Brussels Airlines operate international routes. Domestic travel is covered by Congo Airways and CAA.
Cheap flights to Democratic Republic Of The Congo
Democratic Republic Of The Congo
Untamed and Unforgettable
Landmark
Travel Season
- June–September: Dry season, best for trekking and wildlife
- October–May: Rainy season, lush but muddy and humid
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Congolese Franc (CDF)
- Cash is essential; cards rarely accepted outside major hotels
- ATMs are unreliable—bring US dollars for exchange
- Exchange money at banks or trusted bureaus
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi available in hotels and cafes in Kinshasa and Goma
- Local SIM cards (Vodacom, Airtel) available at airports
- Internet speeds are slow; pocket Wi-Fi is rare
Getting Around
- Domestic flights are vital for long distances
- Shared taxis and motorbike taxis (boda-bodas) in cities
- Overland travel is challenging—roads may be poor or unsafe
- No reliable rail network for tourists
Time Zone
- Central Africa Time (CAT) – GMT+2
Etiquette & Culture
- Greet with respect; French is widely spoken
- Photography may require permission—especially of people
- Respect local customs and dress modestly
- Tipping is appreciated in hotels and restaurants
Top Destinations
- Kinshasa: Urban energy and Congolese culture
- Virunga National Park: Gorillas, volcanoes, and biodiversity
- Lake Kivu: Peaceful retreats and scenic views
- Goma: Gateway to adventure and humanitarian hubs
- Lubumbashi: Mining city with colonial architecture
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Poulet à la Moambé (chicken in palm sauce), Fufu, grilled fish
- Local beer and palm wine are popular
- Tap water isn’t safe—stick to bottled
- Street food is common but choose vendors carefully
personal_bag What to Pack
- Sturdy shoes and trekking gear
- Light, breathable clothing
- Mosquito repellent and sunscreen
- Power adapter (Type C/D/E plugs)
Best Time to Visit
- June–September: Dry and cooler, ideal for trekking and wildlife
- October–May: Rainy but lush, with fewer tourists
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- DRC has unstable regions—check UK travel advice before visiting
- Emergency numbers: 117 (police), 118 (ambulance)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Yellow Fever (mandatory), Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended
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Kinshasa
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