Unique Things to Do in The Republic Of Congo
Exploring the Congo offers thrilling adventures, from trekking endangered lowland and mountain gorillas and hiking the world’s largest lava lake atop Mount Nyiragongo, to visiting the world’s only orphaned bonobo sanctuary. The region is a premier destination for untouched, immersive, and once-in-a-lifetime equatorial experiences.
Congo offers unparalleled equatorial adventures. Top experiences include tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, hiking Mount Nyiragongo to see the world’s largest lava lake, and observing rescued bonobos at Kinshasa’s Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary.
Things to Do in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
1. Gorilla Trekking: Trek through dense tropical forests in Kahuzi-Biega National Park to see endangered Eastern lowland gorillas.
2. Volcano Hiking: Climb the active Mount Nyiragongo stratovolcano and camp on the crater rim overlooking the bubbling lava lake.
3. Relax at Lake Kivu: Unwind by the lake on the crescent-shaped Tchegera Island, offering birdwatching, kayaking, and volcano views.
4. City Culture (Kinshasa): Explore local art at the Académie des Beaux-Arts, or visit the Musée National de la RDC to view an extensive collection of tribal and historical artifacts.
Things to Do in Republic of the Congo (Brazzaville)
1. Wildlife & Beaches: Visit Conkouati-Douli National Park to see elephants, chimpanzees, and sea turtles stretching from forests to the Atlantic coastline.
2. Explore Brazzaville: Admire the striking architecture of Sainte-Anne Basilica and shop for local handicrafts in the vibrant Poto-Poto markets.
3. Natural Wonders: Take a short trip outside the capital to see the dramatic Gorges of Diosso and the stunning Loufoulakari Falls.
Ultimate Primate Tracking
Gorilla Trekking: Trek critically endangered western lowland gorillas in Odzala-Kokoua National Park (Brazzaville) or mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park (DRC).
Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary (DRC): Located just outside Kinshasa, this is the world’s only sanctuary dedicated to orphaned bonobos—our closest living relatives, sharing over 90% of human DNA.
Active Volcano & Jungle Expeditions
Mount Nyiragongo (DRC): Hike this active stratovolcano in Virunga National Park and peer down into the world’s largest, most voluminous boiling lava lake, followed by an overnight stay at the summit.
Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park (Brazzaville): Visit the Wali clearing observatory to safely watch hundreds of forest elephants and vibrant flocks of parrots interact in mineral-rich clearings.
Water & Nature Wonders
Congo River Pirogue Tours: Navigate the legendary Congo River by renting a traditional wooden pirogue, often starting from the Kinkole Fish Market.
Loufoulakari and Bela Falls (Brazzaville): Just a short drive outside Brazzaville, these stunning, powerful waterfalls offer incredible views of the lush, deep rainforest.
Cultural & Urban Adventures
Poto-Poto Market (Brazzaville): Wander through one of the country’s most vibrant, historic markets to bargain for traditional crafts, jewelry, and brightly colored wax.
Côte Sauvage (Pointe-Noire): Relax on the sweeping, pristine beaches of the Atlantic coast, which are also highly popular for surfing, hang-gliding, and freshwater fishing on Lac Bleu.