Practical Information
Visa & entry
Most nationalities require a visa; apply at DRC embassy. E-visas theoretically available but unreliable; obtain a paper visa if possible. Visa on arrival is possible but involves delays and unofficial fees. Yellow fever vaccination is required; proof requested. Passport valid for 6+ months. Processing times are unpredictable.
Money & payments
Currency is the Congolese Franc (CDF). USD is widely accepted in Kinshasa and major cities. Exchange rates are informal and volatile. ATMs exist in Kinshasa from major banks but are unreliable; withdraw cash when possible. Credit cards are rarely accepted. Outside Kinshasa, cash only. Expect currency manipulation and scams.
SIM cards & internet
Mobile networks: Vodacom, Airtel, and Orange operate. Coverage is good in Kinshasa and cities; very patchy elsewhere. Data is expensive and speeds are slow. Buy SIM in Kinshasa; registration required. Internet cafes exist in the capital. Internet outside cities is unreliable.
Getting around
No functional trains or reliable internal flights (when available, they are unpredictable). Shared taxis operate in cities; negotiate fares. Riverboat travel is the backbone of interior transport; charter through tour operators. Roads are terrible; hire 4x4 with driver for any remote travel. Journeys take much longer than distance would suggest.
Health
Malaria is endemic; take prophylaxis. Yellow fever, ebola (in remote areas), sleeping sickness, and cholera occur. Sanitation is poor; waterborne diseases common. Tap water is unsafe; bottled water essential. Medical care outside Kinshasa is minimal; serious cases require evacuation. Bring extensive medical supplies and prescriptions.
Language & etiquette
French is official; Lingala is widely spoken. English is rare. Learn basic French and Lingala. Handshakes are standard; respectful greeting expected. Avoid discussing the eastern conflicts or politics. Photography: always ask. Dress modestly. Tipping is appreciated.
When to go
Two dry seasons: January-February and June-August. June-August is shorter but best for travel; cooler and less humid. Rainy season May-June brings flooding; November-March is wet and humid. The equatorial climate is hot year-round. Seasonal variation is minimal in rainforest regions.
Getting there
Félix Houphouët-Boigny Airport (Kinshasa) is the primary gateway; Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and Air France provide consistent service. River travel via steamboat navigates the Congo's legendary route; overland crossings from Angola, Uganda, and Central African Republic possible but often unpredictable.