Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Guide

Democratic Republic of the Congo OVERVIEW

Unfortunately, you'll need to curb your "Explore Africa!" zest if the Democratic Republic of the Congo is your next Black Continent stop. Although no longer considered risky, this Africa's third largest country should be off limits for a mere traveler. As frequently reported, areas outside the capital of Kinshasa are a trap not only because of the non-existent transport infrastructure but also volatile situation involving border and refugee conflicts.

Should it be safer, you'd definitely savor a hearty chunk of spectacular Africa. Straddling the Equator, DROC, the proverbial heart of darkness, is where you steer to admire vast savannah expanse, towering volcanic mountain peaks, rumbling rivers and much of untamed wilderness. There are definitely sites to tick off when in the neighborhood - the UNESCO Okapi Wild Reserve, Kahuzi-Biéga and Salonga National Parks have vividly illustrated lessons to give you on the furry and feathery of Africa's inhabitants. Somewhere in between the failed politics of Mobutu's overthrow, civil war and bitter nationwide divisions as well as wasted resources on the other end of the spectrum, an awkward giant hesitantly takes his steps. Hopefully, things can only get better for this most populous Francophone country - under the watchful eye of UN troops, president Joseph Kabila stands a chance of making its five UNESCO biospheres and US$24 trillion of untapped mineral potential hidden under the ground into a powerful state.

In the meantime, before the president succeeds in bringing back some level of normality to this marred country, Kalemie and the banks of Lake Tanganyika, reminiscent of the French Riviera, will have to wait for the right moment. So will Goma and Beni with outstanding mountain scenery along with impressive Kiobo waterfalls. Wait, and your patience shall be rewarded.