Democratic Republic of the Congo Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Democratic Republic of the Congo - DRC, CD, Central Africa)

Traditional tourist attractions, such as historic buildings and museums, are few and far between in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, there's still plenty to see and do, from bustling street markets to craft workshops.

Tourists can also look forward to immersing themselves in the traditions and landscape of this fascinating country. Particularly popular attractions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo include the natural forest named the Symphonies Naturelles, the more formal Kisantu Botanical Gardens, and in the city of Kinshasa, both the Central Market of Matongé and the AAC Bonobo Nursery Sanctuary.

Kisantu Botanical Gardens

Address: Kisantu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, CD / DRC, Africa
Located off the main road to Matadi, the Kisantu Botanical Gardens feature an arboretum of centenarian trees in a peaceful riverside setting. For visitors, the gardens offer an opportunity to while away an afternoon, amidst exotic foliage and tropical flowers. Of interest, the onsite research centre continues to investigate the science of African plants and has recently looked at ways to extend the shelf life of fruit, such as the purple mangosteen.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Symphonies Naturelles

Address: 8 Avenue Kolwezi, Gombe, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, CD / DRC, Africa
Tel: +243 994 0778
Just a short distance from Kinshasa, Symphonies Naturelles is a pleasant place to while away an afternoon. Some 200 hectares / 495 acres of forest are open for visitors to explore, with opportunities to fish, enjoy the local wildlife or enjoy a meal in the park's restaurant. There are many scenic pathways to follow, together with areas to sit down and enjoy the views, often shaded by giant bamboo. Look out for the hidden grottos and giant termite mounds.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

AAC Bonobo Nursery Sanctuary

Address: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, CD / DRC, Africa
Tel: +243 88 40009
The Bonobo Nursery Sanctuary is housed within the campus of the American School of Kinshasa. Guided tours of the sanctuary are available, offering visitors a unique opportunity to see this endangered ape species. Indeed the Democratic Republic of Congo is the only country in the world where endangered bonobos (pygmy chimpanzees) are born and live in the wild. The nursery cares for and protects orphaned apes found in Kinshasa and elsewhere. The nearby Chutes do Lukaya are an added attraction for visitors to the sanctuary.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Central Market of Matongé (Marché Central)

Address: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, CD / DRC, Africa
Kinshasa's Central Market is a fascinating place to visit. Fresh produce spills out onto the pavement and umbrella-shaded stalls sell a multitude of everyday items. Once the most modern market found in the entire country, the Marché Central of today looks rather worn and tired around the edges. However, what it lacks in facilities, it certainly more than makes up for in atmosphere and character.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Valle de la Lufira

Address: Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, CD / DRC, Africa
This nature reserve is the ideal place for hikers, bird watchers and indeed all wildlife lovers, being particularly rich in indigenous Congolese flora and fauna. Located close to Lubumbashi, the reserve is a listed UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free