Attractions Nearby Democratic Republic of the Congo, Day Trips and Excursions

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

Many of the countries which border the Democratic Republic of the Congo are subject to civil unrest and political instability. As such, travelling to attractions in this part of Africa may prove to be rather difficult and not advisable.

Since the situation can vary widely, even within a country, it's worth making detailed enquiries when planning to travel to attractions within any of the countries listed below. If you are able to visit, though, you will certainly get a chance to see traditional African life at first hand.

Tanzania

Nearby Tanzania is a popular tourist destination, with attractions that include Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti. Whilst most of the action seems to be on Tanzania's eastern shores, around the capital Dar es Salaam, the western region also has a lot to offer. On Lake Tanganyika, the port of Kigoma is a good base for exploring Tanzania's isolated Mahale Mountains National Park. The nearby Gombe Stream National Park has long enjoyed a close relationship with British researcher Jane Goodall and is home to some 150 chimpanzees.

Burundi

Whilst Burundi has, like many of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's neighbours, suffered ethnic conflict in the past, intrepid visitors can once again admire the country's beautiful mountain and lake scenery. Burundi's capital city, Bujumbura, is situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika and boasts some great beaches nearby. Other attractions include the Parc National de la Kibira and the Parc National de la Rusizi. However, top of most itineraries has to be the Livingstone Stanley Monument, just a short distance from the capital. A stone marks the spot where the two men are reputed to have met and those immortal words uttered - 'Dr. Livingstone, I presume?'.

Republic of the Congo

Congo is located on the opposite side of the Congo River to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Whilst sporadic unrest still bothers this relatively little-visited country, adventurous travellers can look forward to the delights of the French-styled Brazzaville, Congo's capital city. Along with several historic monuments, including a cathedral, Brazzaville is a stark contrast to Kinshasa across the water. Pointe Noire is the country's second-largest city and serves as the terminus of the popular Congo-Ocean Railway.

Central African Republic (CAR)

Located on the northern border is the Central African Republic's capital city, Bangui. There are few attractions in the city itself, other than a multitude of markets. However, just a short distance away are the Boali Waterfalls. The falls drop a spectacular 50 m / 164 feet and are at their best during the rainy season. Bangui is well served by its own airport.

Rwanda

After a period of ethnic conflict in Rwanda, visitors are once again starting to visit this spectacularly scenic country. Attractions in the south-western region of Rwanda include the Parc National Nyungwe Forest, which extends for 1,000 quare kilometres / 621 square miles across a mountainous area of spreading forest. Kibuye, on the shores of Lake Kivu, is also popular.

Sudan

On the north-western border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are the Western and Eastern Equatoria regions of Sudan. Whilst the south of Sudan remains particularly unstable, intrepid travellers might wish to venture into the Nuba Mountains or nearby market town of El-Obeid. The town of Juba is the capital of southern Sudan. This busy port serves river traffic on the White Nile.

Uganda

To the west of the country lies Uganda. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions that are located on or close to the border between these two countries, including Mount Stanley, the Rwnezori Mountains and the Semuliki National Park. Kampala is the capital city and stands alongside the shoreline of Lake Victoria, where it is home to the Uganda Museum, the Kasubi Tombs, the National Theatre and the Nommo Art Gallery.

Zambia

Zambia is home to a number of impressive wildlife parks, as well as some of Africa's most-visited tourist attractions. Many of these are located in the south of the country. In the northern province of Zambia, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, visitors can head for the spectacular Kalambo Falls, and the Kapishya Hot Springs, complete with steamy lagoon. Zambia's Copperbelt Province is home to most of the country's copper reserves, as well as the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, which provides sanctuary for over 80 rescued chimpanzees. The Zambian city of Livingstone serves as a gateway to the famed Victoria Falls, which stand on the border with Zimbabwe.