Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Expanded E-Visa System
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has enhanced its e-visa platform for easier applications from select countries, requiring an online submission with a $50-100 fee and processing times of 3-7 days. This digital option reduces the need for embassy visits, but always verify eligibility based on your nationality to avoid complications at entry points.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the DRC, with a minimum of three blank pages for visas and entry stamps. Ensure it is in good condition without any damage, as border officials may reject worn documents, potentially stranding you at airports like Ndjili in Kinshasa.
Photocopy your passport and keep digital backups, as replacements in the DRC can be challenging due to limited consular services.
Visa-Free Countries
A limited number of nationalities, primarily from African Union countries like Rwanda and Uganda, enjoy visa-free entry for short stays up to 90 days, but this is rare for Western travelers who must obtain visas in advance. Always check the latest bilateral agreements, as policies can change due to regional security dynamics.
Even visa-free visitors may need to register with immigration upon arrival and provide proof of onward travel.
Visa Applications
Most visitors require a single-entry visa ($50-105 depending on nationality), applied for at a DRC embassy or consulate abroad, with required documents including a yellow fever vaccination certificate, invitation letter if applicable, and proof of sufficient funds (at least $100/day). Processing typically takes 5-10 business days, but allow extra time for peak seasons or if applying from non-standard locations.
The e-visa portal simplifies this for tourism or business, but not all visa types are available online yet.
Border Crossings
Entry is primarily via international airports in Kinshasa, Goma, or Lubumbashi, where expect thorough checks including baggage scans due to security concerns; land borders with neighbors like Zambia or Rwanda are possible but require prior authorization and can involve delays of several hours. Visa on arrival is available at select airports for certain nationalities, but pre-approval is strongly recommended to avoid denial.
Overland travel demands caution, with checkpoints common—carry multiple copies of your visa and itinerary.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and should cover medical evacuation (MEDIVAC), as healthcare facilities in the DRC are limited outside major cities, with costs for airlifts exceeding $50,000. Policies must also include coverage for trip cancellation due to political instability and theft, given the higher risk profile.
Providers like World Nomads offer tailored plans starting at $10/day, ensuring 24/7 assistance in remote areas like Virunga National Park.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 30 days can be requested at the Direction Générale de Migration in Kinshasa or provincial offices, requiring a fee of around $50 and justification like ongoing business or medical needs, with processing taking 3-7 days. Overstaying without extension incurs fines of $10/day and potential deportation, so plan ahead for longer gorilla trekking expeditions.
Always retain your entry stamp as proof, and consult a local fixer if navigating bureaucracy proves challenging.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
The Democratic Republic of the Congo uses the Congolese Franc (CDF), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted for larger transactions. For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Kinshasa or Goma by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for regional flights to eastern provinces.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at street vendors or maquis for affordable meals under $5, skipping touristy hotels to save up to 60% on food costs in cities like Lubumbashi.
Local markets offer fresh fruits, grilled meats, and staples like cassava at bargain prices, supporting community economies.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for shared minibuses (sotrama) at $1-3 per ride instead of taxis, or negotiate multi-day deals for river ferries along the Congo River to cut transport costs by half.
In Kinshasa, weekly moto-taxi passes can provide unlimited local travel for under $10.
Free Attractions
Explore public markets in Kinshasa, riverside walks in Kisangani, and community festivals, which are cost-free and immerse you in Congolese culture without entry fees.
Many natural sites like waterfalls near Kananga offer self-guided access, saving on guided tour expenses.
Card vs Cash
Cash (USD in good condition) is king outside major hotels; ATMs are scarce and unreliable, so exchange at banks for better rates than informal changers.
Avoid carrying large amounts—use hotel safes and split cash to minimize theft risks in crowded areas.
Park Entry Discounts
Purchase multi-day permits for Virunga or Kahuzi-Biega National Parks at $100-200 for groups, which include trekking and reduce per-activity fees significantly.
It pays for itself after one gorilla permit, allowing access to multiple trails and conservation sites.
Smart Packing for Democratic Republic of the Congo
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothes for the tropical heat, including long sleeves and pants for mosquito protection during evening wildlife viewing in Garamba. Neutral colors like khaki or green help blend in for safaris, while modest attire respects local customs in urban mosques and markets.
Layer with breathable fabrics to handle humidity spikes up to 90%, and include a rain poncho for sudden downpours.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type C/D/E plugs, solar charger for remote areas without reliable power, and a rugged phone case for dusty trails in Upemba National Park. Download offline maps via apps like Maps.me, as internet is spotty outside Kinshasa.
A satellite communicator like Garmin inReach is vital for emergencies in gorilla habitats where cell service fails.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive malaria prophylaxis, yellow fever certificate, and a robust first-aid kit with antimalarials, antibiotics, and rehydration salts for potential outbreaks in eastern regions. Travel insurance docs and vaccination records must be accessible, as checkpoints often require proof.
Include water purification tablets or a LifeStraw, since tap water is unsafe—boil or treat all sources to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Travel Gear
Pack a durable daypack with anti-theft features for market visits in Bukavu, plus a reusable water bottle and lightweight sleeping bag for overland camping. Keep small USD bills for tips and bribes at informal checkpoints, and a money belt for valuables.
Multiple passport photocopies and a waterproof document pouch protect against river crossings or heavy rains.
Footwear Strategy
Choose high-top hiking boots with good traction for muddy trails in Salonga National Park and lightweight sandals for urban exploration in Goma. Gaiters prevent leeches and mud in rainforest treks, while sturdy shoes are essential for unpaved roads.
Break in footwear before travel to avoid blisters during long hikes to chimpanzee viewing spots.
Personal Care
Include DEET-based insect repellent (50%+), high-SPF sunscreen for equatorial sun, and antifungal creams for humid conditions that promote infections. Biodegradable soap and wet wipes are handy for remote campsites without facilities.
Travel-sized electrolytes and a compact mosquito net enhance comfort during multi-day expeditions in the Congo Basin.
When to Visit Democratic Republic of the Congo
Dry Season (June-October)
The best time for travel with lower humidity (60-70%) and temperatures of 25-30°C, ideal for gorilla trekking in Virunga where trails are less muddy and wildlife viewing is optimal. Fewer rains mean reliable flights and road access to remote parks like Okapi.
Peak for birdwatching with migratory species arriving, though book permits early due to high demand.
Short Dry Period (December-February)
A secondary window with warm days around 28-32°C and minimal rain, perfect for cultural festivals in Kinshasa and savanna safaris in the south. Vegetation is sparser, aiding elephant and antelope sightings in Garamba National Park.
Crowds are lighter than main dry season, but expect holiday price surges around New Year's.
Transition Months (March-May)
Shoulder season with increasing rains but lush greenery enhancing rainforest hikes in Kahuzi-Biega, temperatures holding at 24-28°C. Waterfalls like those near Kisangani are at full flow, offering dramatic photo ops despite occasional showers.
Lower costs for accommodations make it budget-friendly for extended stays in eastern provinces.
Wet Season (November-March, excluding Dec-Feb dry spell)
Avoid if possible due to heavy rains (up to 200mm/month) and flooding, but viable for urban exploration in Lubumbashi with indoor markets and temperatures of 22-27°C. River levels rise, enabling boat trips on the Congo but complicating overland travel.
Best for birders spotting rare species in flooded forests, with fewer tourists and discounted park fees.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Congolese Franc (CDF), but USD widely used for payments over $10. Exchange at banks; ATMs limited and often dispense CDF.
- Language: French is official; regional languages include Lingala, Swahili, and Kikongo. English spoken in tourist areas and by officials.
- Time Zone: West Africa Time (WAT) UTC+1 in west; East Africa Time (EAT) UTC+2 in east
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C/D/E plugs (European two-pin and three-pin variants)
- Emergency Number: Police 117, Medical 113, Fire 118; international +243 for DRC
- Tipping: Expected for services; 10-15% in restaurants, $1-2 for porters or guides
- Water: Not safe to drink; use bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne diseases
- Pharmacies: Available in cities like Kinshasa; stock up on essentials abroad due to shortages