The Democratic Republic of the Congo often referred to as its abbreviation – DRC or D.R. Congo is the single largest and most populous country in Central Africa. This country has suffered tragic times and has had an extremely tumultuous history. The presence of armed troupes makes it dangerous for tourists to visit DRC currently. However, those who manage to enter DRC and are brave enough to spend some time here, are definitely in for an adventure.
Geographically, DRC is diverse and can offer many options for all the nature lovers: in the east, you can see volcanic peaks rising above the rainforests surrounding them, with misty clouds descending upon them. Mount Nyiragongo is especially interesting for hikers who can spend the night on the rim above an active lava lake. If you’re into jungles, tourists are permitted to trek to families of gorillas daily, but in smaller groups. You can also spend some quality time on the mighty Congo River, floating hundreds of kilometers on barges and roam around the lively markets in every corner of the country.
Warnings & Dangers in Democratic Republic of the Congo
OVERALL RISK : HIGH
DRC isn't a safe destination for travelers. You should know that many governments advise their citizens not to travel to the country as it is considered very high risk. Be very aware of your surroundings at all times. Both petty and violent crimes are normal here.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : HIGH
Be extremely careful when traveling anywhere in DRC. Transport here is risky and tourists should be cautious at all times. There have been many incidents of highway robberies and carjacking by armed bandits outside urban areas, often resulting in violence.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
As you would expect, petty theft and pickpocketing is widespread in DRC. Make sure you don't flash your valuables and generally don't look like you're wealthy. Dangling cameras, flashing money or credit cards or expensive jewelry is strongly recommended against. Be particularly careful in crowded areas. Bear in mind that crime in this country is a way of life.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : HIGH
The DRC is susceptible to numerous natural hazards such as volcanic and limnic eruptions, earthquakes, flooding, and drought. What heightens the susceptability to these hazards are factors like extreme poverty and political turmoil.
MUGGING RISK : HIGH
Violent crime happens in DRC during all times of day, so do not think that daylight makes you safe. You can expect muggings, burglaries, carjackings and armed banditry on the roads. These occurrences are common and the risk increases after dark, so avoid going anywhere after nightfall.
TERRORISM RISK : HIGH
Terrorists are likely to carry out attacks in DRC. The presence of armed forces in some parts of DRC makes the situation in the country extremely tense. Attacks can't be ruled out, so be extremely vigilant at all times.
SCAMS RISK : HIGH
There are many scams in DRC, like in most poor and dangerous countries. Be wary of people trying to distract you in order to steal from you and of taxi drivers overcharging you for a ride. We advise you to be extremely careful when handling money and around ATMs.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : HIGH
DRC is definitely not safe for solo female travelers. They are advised, if it is absolutely necessary that they leave their accommodation at night, to go out accompanied by someone. Be sure to avoid remote streets, both during day and night, and do not flash your belongings or handle money in public.
So... How Safe Is Democratic Republic of the Congo Really?
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is dangerous for travelers, and traveling here is strongly advised against due to the potential for large scale demonstrations and civil unrest. The presence of armed forces in North and South Kivu, Orientale provinces northern and central regions of the Katanga province, and the eastern section of Maniema, makes the atmosphere in the country particularly tense as these groups have been known to perform all kinds of crimes like stealing cars, taking hostages, assaulting people and sexually assaulting women, murdering and kidnapping civilians.
The LRA (The Lord Resistance Army) rebel group continues to wander the jungles near the border with the CAR/South Sudan/Uganda, in the northeastern part of the country. There are some parts of the country that are close to the Ugandan border and yet still safe to visit, but even so, it s still not recommended to travel anywhere north and east of Kisangani & Bumba is dangerous.
The traffic conditions in DRC are extremely poor: the road network is in dire need of improvement, as traveling along these roads can take weeks, especially during the wetter seasons. Congolese planes have been known to crash almost regularly, with depressing statistics reporting eight recorded crashes in 2007 alone.
Useful Information
- Visas - Most countries do need a visa in order to enter DRC, and you must obtain one from one of the Democratic Republic of the Congo diplomatic missions. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
- Currency - There are two currencies in the Democratic Republic of Congo: the Congolese franc and the Zairean zaire. US dollars are accepted in the country. ATMs are common in the large cities.
- Weather - Lying on the Equator, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The climate is characterized by hot and humid weather in the river basin and cool and dry weather in the highlands, with an alpine climate in the Rwenzori Mountains.
- Airports - N'djili Airport, also referred to as N'Djili International Airport and Kinshasa International Airport, is the main airport serving the city of Kinshasa. It is the largest of the four international airports in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- Travel Insurance - Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to DRC, since it covers not only the costs medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
