Things To Do
in Congo (Kinshasa)
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (Kinshasa) is a vast, vibrant city set on the southern bank of the mighty Congo River, opposite Brazzaville. It is a cultural hub of Central Africa, famous for its lively music scene, markets, and diverse street life. Kinshasa combines modern diplomatic and business districts with crowded neighborhoods, rich traditions and nearby pockets of rainforest and wildlife.
Infrastructure can be uneven, but the city rewards curious visitors with energetic culture, impressive river views and unique wildlife experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at N'djili International Airport and have your first taste of Congolese hospitality as you check into your hotel. Spend the morning settling in and refreshing after your journey. Explore the surrounding area to familiarize yourself with the vibrant atmosphere of Kinshasa.
Head out to visit the stunning Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, an iconic landmark of the city. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant where you can experience authentic Congolese cuisine. Spend your afternoon strolling along the banks of the Congo River, taking in the views and local life.
As night falls, join the locals for dinner at a popular eatery known for live music. Savor the flavors of grilled tilapia and plantains while enjoying traditional Congolese performances. End the evening with a walk through the lively streets of Kinshasa, absorbing the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day with a visit to the National Museum of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where you'll learn about the rich cultural history of the country. Marvel at the traditional artifacts and artworks that tell the story of the Congolese people. After the museum, enjoy a coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the local ambiance.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Marché des Valeurs, a bustling market filled with local crafts and unique souvenirs. Bargain with vendors for handmade goods, and interact with friendly locals to gain insight into daily life. Make sure to enjoy some street food as you explore the market.
Dine at a traditional Congolese restaurant, experiencing a variety of dishes such as fufu and moambe chicken. After dinner, consider catching a local band or dance performance to immerse yourself in the music and dance culture. Wind down with a nightcap at a trendy bar, reflecting on your cultural discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $1.50-4 |
| 🚌Local bus / shared taxi ride | $0.20-1 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride) | $3-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich, lively musical and cultural scene with world-class Congolese music
- Unique access to the Congo River and nearby wildlife such as bonobos
- Affordable day-to-day costs at markets and street food
- Warm, welcoming people and vibrant street life
- Uneven infrastructure and limited tourist infrastructure outside Gombe
- Safety concerns: petty crime and occasional political unrest
- Health risks (malaria, waterborne illness) and limited high-quality medical facilities
- Language can be a barrier outside French- and Lingala-speaking communities
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning (French common in Kinshasa)
- "Mbote" - Hello (Lingala)
- "Merci" - Thank you (French)
- "Matondo" - Thank you (Lingala)
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please (French)
- "Où est ... ?" - Where is ... ? (French)
- "Kombo na ngai ezali ..." - My name is ... (Lingala)
Places to Visit in Congo (Kinshasa)
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic views of the wide Congo River and the skyline, sunsets over the water and the opposite city of Brazzaville—great for wide landscape and street scenes.
Colorful market life, produce, fabrics and portraits (ask permission before photographing individuals).
Close-up wildlife photography of bonobos in a rehabilitation setting—book in advance and follow sanctuary rules for safe shooting.
Modern and monumental architecture, public murals and political monuments that tell the city's recent history.
Photograph the river and the twin-city relationship—early morning and sunset light are best for skyline shots.
Food in Congo (Kinshasa)
Congo (Kinshasa) Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chicken stewed in a rich palm-nut and peanut-based sauce; a national favorite found in many mid-range restaurants and family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Cassava leaves cooked with palm oil, spices and often fish or meat; common at markets and homes, served with fufu or rice.
Staple starchy side made from cassava (kwanga is the fermented, wrapped form); accompanies stews and sauces and is available everywhere.
Salted and smoked small fish popular as a flavoring and snack, often sold at markets and used in stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Largest central market with fresh produce, smoked fish, spices and street vendors—great for photos and trying snacks like fried plantains and brochettes (meat skewers).
Neighborhood markets where you can taste beignets, grilled fish and regional specialties; buy bottled water and watch food prepared fresh.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings are important—offer a polite handshake, ask 'Comment allez-vous?' in French or 'Mbote' in Lingala. Start conversations with a greeting before launching into requests.
Dress modestly in public; show respect to elders and officials. Public displays of affection are uncommon in conservative neighborhoods.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets and villages—some people expect small payment for posed photos.
Avoid charged political discussions with strangers; be discreet discussing local politics or security issues.
Safety
Tipping in Congo (Kinshasa)
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; in restaurants 5–10% is fine if service is not included, and give small amounts to porters, guides and drivers.
The Congolese franc (CDF) is the local currency and cash is king—carry small bills for markets and taxis. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and some restaurants in Gombe, but many places are cash-only. ATMs exist but can be unreliable, so bring enough cash and inform your bank before travel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect frequent heavy afternoon storms, high humidity and muddy side streets—some roads can become difficult; mosquito risk is higher, so bring repellant and consider anti-malarial measures.
Drier, sunnier weather with more comfortable evenings and better road conditions for travel—this is the most convenient time for excursions outside the city.
Congo (Kinshasa) at Night
Hiking in Congo (Kinshasa)
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Local hills and informal trails south of central Kinshasa offering short hikes and views over parts of the city—best visited with a local guide and during the dry season.
Areas around the bonobo sanctuary have paths and natural areas for light walks and wildlife observation—sanctuary rules apply and guided visits are recommended.
A longer excursion to dramatic rapids and river scenery in Kongo Central province; hiking and exploration around the falls can be rewarding but require planning, transport and local knowledge.
Airports
How to reach Congo (Kinshasa) by plane.
Primary international airport serving Kinshasa (also called N'Djili). Taxi transfers to the city can take time depending on traffic—use accredited taxis or hotel transfers.
Maya-Maya serves Brazzaville directly across the river in the Republic of Congo; some travelers use air or boat connections between Brazzaville and Kinshasa—check visa and border requirements before planning.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kinshasa's population is very young and rapidly growing, with a robust urban youth culture driving music, fashion and entrepreneurship.
The city is home to people from across the DRC—largest ethnic groups nationally include Kongo, Luba, Mongo and others—many residents have migrated from rural provinces.
Gombe hosts a mix of diplomats, NGO workers and expatriates, contributing to international restaurants, services and higher-end accommodation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport—local matches attract passionate crowds and the national team (known as Les Léopards) has a strong following.
Boxing has a following and local fighters have regional prominence; informal boxing and training gyms exist in the city.
While not a sport, lively dance and performance culture are central to public life and often accompany celebrations and sporting events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (plantain, cassava-based dishes, legumes, vegetable stews) but protein is often fish or meat-based; in hotels and upscale restaurants you’ll have better choices—specify 'végétarien' in French or ask for dishes without meat/fish.
Vegan options can be found in markets and by ordering vegetable stews, but cross-contamination with palm oil or fish is common. Gluten-free options are limited outside international restaurants—carry snacks if you have strict needs.
Drink bottled water, avoid ice from unknown sources, favor cooked foods and busy vendors, and wash fruit with bottled water or peel it.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Congo (Kinshasa).