The Democratic Republic of Congo shares a border with the Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan to the north. Zambia and Angola are both south. UgandaRwandaBurundi, and Tanzania are east. You’ll also find the Atlantic Ocean to the west and southwest. The capital city is Kinshasa.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the second-largest country in Africa and is also the largest in Subsaharan Africa. It boasts various types of land, showcasing everything from overgrown rainforests to dangerous, active volcanoes. Raging rivers also add to its natural power.

The official language of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is French. However, 242 other languages are spoken around the country. Catholicism is a predominant religion, with Protestantism closely following.

The official currency is Franc Congolais. The approximate exchange rate is CDF1169.5 for US$1. Free circulation of foreign currencies is now allowed within the country. Only major hotels in Kinshasa accept credit cards. You also can’t obtain cash from them at banks. 

Taxis are available in the capital city. However, they are unreliable. You can hire a car at the airport, but it is better to book in advance. Also, roads are in poor condition and vehicle thefts are rather frequent.

The electric sockets here are of type C. F-type plugs are also applicable. Also, the standard voltage is 220V.

 This country was once a battleground. It is the site of Africa’s first world war. It has a history of anarchy, which continues to plague the country. Frequent military conflicts make travel here dangerous. Fortunately, due to the UN Peacekeeping Force help, the country shows the promise of following a more hopeful path and heads towards the bright future.

Tourism in the country is uncommon. In Kinshasa, there are some travel opportunities. For example, downtown, in the ivory market, you can buy objects of Congolese art, tribal masks and other beautiful pieces of art. Also, outside of the capital, you can visit Lola Ya Bonobo, a bonobo preserve. Or you can go to the Congo River.

Tourists can also trek in the mountains to see lowland gorillas in wild and meet pygmies. Visitors can also climb to the summits of active volcanoes and see a boiling lava lake in the crater of Mount Nyiragongo.

Though it is not the safest place to travel, it still boasts beauty and a population of conscientious, determined people. It is a country that is full of hope and is sure to evolve into a safer place with the sheer force of effort from its inhabitants.


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