Things To Do
in Basankusu
Basankusu is a remote river town in the Equateur region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, perched along the Basankusu River as it feeds into larger waterways. It serves as a bustling hub for fishers, traders, and forest produce, with a lively market culture that animates the town each day. Life centers on the river and forest frontier, offering a raw glimpse of Congolese rural commerce and community.
While infrastructure can be basic and travel adventurous, Basankusu rewards curious visitors with authentic encounters and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Basankusu Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Wander through the stalls filled with fresh produce, traditional crafts, and colorful fabrics, while interacting with friendly vendors. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of cassava and fried fish from a local seller, savoring the flavors of the region.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour around the market area to learn about the various goods and the importance of trade in Basankusu. Visit local artisans who create beautiful handcrafted items, and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir to take home. Afterward, relax at a nearby café, sipping on local beverages while observing the lively interactions of the market.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery to enjoy a dinner of Congolese specialties, such as pondu and grilled chicken. Engage with locals, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the riverbank, where you can watch the stars twinkle above the serene waters.
Begin your adventure with a guided nature walk through Ngiri National Park, where the rich biodiversity will captivate you. Listen to the sounds of the forest as you spot various species of birds and perhaps even some playful monkeys. The fresh morning air and the beauty of the lush greenery will invigorate your senses.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the stunning landscape of the park. Your guide will share insights about the ecosystem and the wildlife that call Ngiri home, enhancing your appreciation for this natural treasure. Continue your trek, taking in breathtaking views and documenting your journey with photos.
Return to Basankusu in the early evening, where you can relax at your accommodation and reflect on your day's adventures. If you're up for it, visit a local bar to experience the Congolese nightlife and enjoy live music. Savor a cold local beer as you unwind and mingle with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚕Local transport within town | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 🧺Market groceries (daily essentials) | $5-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic riverine culture and rainforest scenery
- Affordable travel in a rarely visited town
- Genuine, welcoming communities and opportunities to learn local crafts
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare options
- Occasional safety and security considerations for remote areas
- Language barriers outside major towns
- "Mbote" - Hello
- "Ndenge nini ozali?" - How are you?
- "Nazali malamu, mersi" - I am fine, thank you
Places to Visit in Basankusu
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the calm river with boats and palm silhouettes.
Colorful stalls and daily life for candid street photography.
Misty trail with dense green backdrop and chances to spot wildlife.
Soft evening light on the water with village silhouettes.
Food in Basankusu
Basankusu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chicken simmered in palm-nut sauce, typically served with rice or fufu.
Must-Try!
Cassava leaves cooked with peanut sauce, often served with rice or fufu.
Fish wrapped in banana leaves and steamed or grilled to infuse flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub of fish stalls, root vegetables, cassava, and palm oil; great for tasting street snacks and observing daily commerce.
Outdoor stalls offering grilled fish, fried plantains, and spicy sauces along the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; use polite language; ask elders for permission to photograph; dress modestly when visiting villages.
Ask before photographing people, especially children; avoid intrusive shots near homes.
Safety
Tipping in Basankusu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 5-10% in restaurants; small tips to guides and porters; cash is preferred.
Cash in Congolese francs (CDF) is most reliable; USD may be accepted in some places; mobile money is growing in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy rainfall, frequent river swelling, and muddy trails; plan boat trips for early mornings to avoid downpours.
Hot and humid with reduced rainfall, but humidity stays high; better for outdoor exploration and longer walks.
Basankusu at Night
Hiking in Basankusu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trail along the river with opportunities to observe birds and local life.
Small forest trail near town offering canopy glimpses and wildlife encounters.
Airports
How to reach Basankusu by plane.
Small airstrip serving domestic flights and charter services to Kinshasa and regional towns.
Major gateway to northeastern DRC; connects to Kinshasa and other regional hubs.
Kinshasa's primary international airport; many connections to international destinations; a common first stop for travelers heading to Basankusu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents speak Lingala; French is used in official settings and some services.
A mix of ethnic groups with livelihoods in fishing, farming, and forest activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and street games are common throughout the year.
River-based competitions and recreational paddling along the Basankusu network.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Basankusu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by ordering plantains, cassava, beans, and leafy vegetables; request sauces without fish or meat and ask for palm oil to be used sparingly if needed.