Are you thinking about traveling to Congo but unsure of how to fill your week? Here’s a flexible 7-day itinerary that will allow you to explore the cultural, historical, and natural highlights without rushing. Follow this plan, and you’ll get a good mix of the key cities, plenty of outdoor time, and a taste of local life. Don’t worry—there’s plenty of downtime for you to enjoy the experience without rushing from point A to point B.
Day 1: Arrive in Kinshasa
Kinshasa is one of the largest cities in Africa and will likely be your arrival point. Take it easy on your first day—journeys to Congo can be long. After settling in your accommodation, head out for a calm evening. You can stroll along the banks of the Congo River or explore some local food spots.
If you want to dive straight into culture, check out Marché Central for a vibrant market experience. But don’t do too much today! It’s best to spend most of your first day adjusting to the local pace and taking it easy.
Where to Stay:
For something comfortable, try Fleuve Congo Hotel or Beatrice Hotel. Both offer great city views and are centrally located.
Must Try:
Grab some grilled fish by the river and enjoy the local street cuisine from vendor stalls. This is a great chance to sample fufu—a starchy side served with most meals.
Day 2: Explore Kinshasa
Your second day is for getting to know Kinshasa. Start with a visit to the Académie des Beaux-Arts, where you can check out modern Congolese art and sculptures. It’s a great way to see what local artists are creating.
For a look at local history, visit the National Museum of Kinshasa. You’ll learn about Congo’s colonial and post-colonial eras, plus see artifacts dating back to the region’s ancient kingdoms.
In the afternoon, take a walk around the city’s Gombe neighborhood. It’s the heart of Kinshasa with places where locals socialize and grab a quick coffee.
Your Evening:
Kinshasa’s nightlife is lively, so if you are up for it, go listen to live Congolese rumba music. This city is the birthplace of many popular African music styles!
Travel Tip:
If you are moving around in the evening, it’s best to stick to taxis, as public transport at night is not reliable.
Day 3: Visit Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary
Get ready for a day trip! Just under 50 km from Kinshasa, you will find Lola ya Bonobo, the world’s only sanctuary for orphaned bonobos. Head here after breakfast to avoid traffic.
The sanctuary offers a peaceful contrast to the city and is home to dozens of bonobos, a species native only to Congo. You can take guided tours to learn about conservation efforts and see the animals in a protected, semi-wild environment. It will be a unique experience to see these intelligent primates up close.
After returning to Kinshasa in the afternoon, grab dinner at one of the restaurants near the river for a scenic end to your day.
Travel Tip:
Bring water and snacks because facilities at the sanctuary can be limited. Also, the best time to visit is during the dry season (June to September) when roads are more reliable.
Day 4: Fly to Kisangani
It’s time to leave the capital. Catch a flight to Kisangani, a city located in the heart of the Congo River. Once a major center during the Belgian colonial era, today Kisangani provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
On arrival, take the afternoon to explore the port area, where cargo boats and river life create a unique scene. If you’re up for a casual walk, stroll through the central market to get a sense of daily life in this remote city.
Where to Stay:
Options in Kisangani are more basic than in Kinshasa. Hotels like Palm Beach or Hotel Wagons offer comfortable stays.
Evening Tip:
Kisangani is quieter than Kinshasa but try finding a local fish restaurant for dinner. Fresh fish is the specialty here, and you can enjoy it right by the Congo River.
Day 5: Explore Boyoma Falls
On Day 5, it’s time to get outdoors and explore Boyoma Falls. A short drive from Kisangani, this series of seven cataracts stretches across the Lualaba River and is one of the longest falls in the world. While not very tall, the sheer force and size of the falls are impressive.
Spend some time walking along the riverbanks and take in the natural beauty. Hiring a local guide is a great way to learn about the region’s history and culture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hop on a boat with the locals for a closer look at the falls.
Return to Kisangani in the late afternoon. You can relax back at the hotel or explore the local market for some souvenirs or handicrafts.
Day 6: Journey to Yangambi Biosphere Reserve
Another day trip worth taking from Kisangani is to the Yangambi Biosphere Reserve. It’s located about 90 km from the city and is a protected area with rich biodiversity. You’ll find everything from dense forests to wetlands here, along with a large variety of bird species.
We recommend booking a tour through a local operator to fully appreciate the reserve’s wildlife and nature. If you’re a nature lover, a full day out in the quiet of the forest will be a highlight of your trip.
Return to Kisangani in the evening and grab a peaceful dinner to end your day. Travel in this region is slower-paced, so enjoy the relaxed rhythm of it.
Day 7: Return to Kinshasa and Departure
On your last day, catch a return flight to Kinshasa. If you have time before your flight home, spend your final hours buying some small gifts or browsing shops for handicrafts to take home.
Use this downtime to reflect on your week—it’ll have been filled with contrast from the busy streets of Kinshasa to the quiet remote cities and natural parks.
Final Thoughts:
While one week in Congo isn’t enough to see every corner of this massive country, it will give you a balance of city life, wildlife, and natural attractions. Don’t be afraid to tweak this itinerary based on the pace that suits you best. Safe travels!
Leave a reply