Welcome to Congo, the land of captivating features, where fascinating tourist attractions in the Congo Republic, like vibrant rivers, lush rainforests, incredible biodiversity, rumbling volcanoes, and breathtaking landscapes await your exploration.  Congo is the second largest country in Africa after Algeria, known for being rich in minerals and dense forests. It is bordered by countries like South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, and Angola, with the Atlantic Ocean on its west.

Congo is home to diverse wildlife/animal life in its national parks, birds, epic mountains, active volcanoes, beautiful cities, alluring rivers, spectacular lakes like lake Kivu, historical sites, religious centers, big mines, dense rainforests, botanical gardens, different tribes, well-stocked Congo museums, and many more.

Embark on the ultimate African safari and witness the beauty of nature in all its glory. Congo is truly a paradise for adventure seekers.

Let’s delve into the intricate beauty of these attractions, which continue to draw people from all over the world.

 The Endearing Primates

Congo is one of the few countries in Africa known for having many fascinating tourist attractions, the primates in its rainforests, which attract thousands of tourists to the country, making them one of the top tourist attractions in Congo. These include

Mountain Gorillas

These are one of the top tourist attractions in Virunga National Park Congo that you should not miss on your safari. Most of Congo’s wild mountain gorillas are young. These survived the massacre and were rescued and rehabilitated at the Senkwekwe gorilla orphanage sanctuary, the only mountain gorilla orphanage, one of the rehabilitation centers and conservation education centers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is located in the Virunga National Park.

Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage is also home to the eastern lowland gorilla orphans.

Though the population of these endangered mountain gorillas is not comparable to that in Uganda and Rwanda, they are worth seeing on your Congo safari.

Do not miss the opportunity to see these primates while gorilla trekking for a breathtaking experience.

 Eastern Lowland Gorillas (Grauer’s Gorillas)

The eastern lowland gorillas (Grauer’s Gorillas), with other wildlife that make Kahuzi-Biega their home they are among the popular things to see that only the Congo can provide. Of over 5000 eastern lowland gorillas left on planet Earth, Congo boasts a significant number — about 400 gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega.

While on a gorilla trek, you will see these primates socialize, young and old, in the rainforest of Kahuzi and Biega Forest. Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage Sanctuary, which is also a conservation education center, and Maiko National Park

The best time to see these beautiful primates on gorilla trekking is during the dry season, which is from June to September and December to February.

Book the eastern lowland gorilla trekking package to see both the eastern lowland gorillas and the wild mountain gorillas, an unforgettable experience.

 Chimpanzees in Congo Brazzaville and the Democratic Republic of Congo

In Congo jungles, you’ll find the delightful chimpanzees, playfully swinging through the lush forests and charming visitors with their curious gazes. This makes them one of the must-see attractions in Congo.

These intelligent creatures create strong bonds within their close-knit communities, showcasing their warm and welcoming nature to all who cross their path. You will see the primate species during chimpanzee trekking with the help of a tour guide.

Where to find chimpanzees

• Kahuzi Biega National Park, which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Virunga National Park, which is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Maiko National Park
• The Okapi Wildlife Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site

.         Conkouati-Douli National Park

Visit Congo; your chimpanzee adventures await.

 Monkeys in Congo

The lush rainforests of Congo are a trove of playful monkeys, making them fascinating things to see. These mischievous primates add a delightful touch to the vibrant ecosystem of Congo’s jungles, creating unforgettable experiences for visitors seeking nature’s wonders.

The different monkey species in Congo include

• Salonga monkeys in Salonga National Park
• Tshuapa red Colobus monkeys
• Agile mangabey
• Bonobo
• Bouvier’s red colobus
• Black crested mangabey
• Golden-bellied mangabey
• L’hoest monkey
• Mantled guereza
• Wolf’s monkey
• Lesula
• Dryas monkey
• Vervet monkeys,
• De Brazza’s monkeys in the Republic of Congo, etc.

Most of the monkey species, like the Salonga monkeys, are found in Congo national parks, especially Salonga National Park, located in the Congo River Basin, Eastern Congo. This park is known to hide poachers who hunt animals, including monkeys, for bush meat due to civil wars.

Other places to find monkey species include Kahuzi Biega National Park and forests like Ituri, among other places.

With the help of an experienced tour guide, you will be able to traverse and identify the different monkey species. You can now book a monkey tracking safari to see these playful primates.

 Other Wildlife species in the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo

Are you a fan of wildlife adventures? Congo is the ultimate destination for all fascinating things to see within its diverse range of wildlife in national parks, reserves, sanctuaries, lush forests, and many other places.

These wildlife species/animals live include

• The big five, which are lions, elephants (African forest elephants), buffalo, rhinos,
• Aquatic animals and reptiles, including Nile monitor, hippopotamuses, Nile crocodiles, African slender-snouted crocodile, Congo water cobra, Gaboon viper, and puff adders
• Antelopes like bongo, impala, greater kudu, waterbuck, bush duiker, hartebeest, northern bushbuck, Kob, tsessebe, roan antelope, and sitatunga
• Other animals, e.g., elusive okapi, potto, zebras, bulbuls, red river hogs, Rodents, bats, hyenas,

Where to find pristine wilderness

Upemba National Park, Kahuzi Biega National Park, Virunga National Park, Ituri Rainforest, Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Salonga National Park, Kundelungu National Park, Lomami National Park, Mangrove Marine National Park, Abumonbazi Nature Reserve, Itombwe Nature Reserve, Lake Tshangalele Nature Reserve, Conkouati-Douli National Park in the Wild Coast, and Garamba National Park, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and one of the oldest national parks.

Note that Garamba National Park accommodates the last known population of white rhinos in DR Congo.

The best time to see these animals is during the dry season.  You can visit these national parks and go on game drives to see Congo’s diverse wildlife.

Embark on an unforgettable safari experience on a day trip and witness the beauty of nature up close.

 Congo Birds

Whether you are a birder or a nature lover, make Congo your final destination when it comes to birding safaris, given its numerous birds that rank among the top things to see in Congo. The Avifauna of the DR Congo confirmed a total of 1188 bird species, of which twenty-one are endemic, and one has been introduced by humans.

These bird species include pheasants, grouse and allies, New World quail, Guineafowl, Ducks, geese and waterfowl, Flamingos, Grebes, Pigeons and doves, Bustards, Turacos, Cuckoos, Nightjars and allies, Swifts, Flufftails, Rails, gallinules and coots, cranes, Thick-knees, Egyptian Plovers, Stilts and avocets, Oystercatchers, Plovers and lapwings, Painted-snipes, Jacanas, rare exotic birds, and many others.

The top places to visit in Congo for birding safaris

• Okapi wildlife reserve bird species
• Virunga National Park – 706 bird species
• Upemba National Park—400 bird species
• Lake Lufira Biosphere Reserve—around 300 bird species
• Okapi Faunal Reserve—about 376 bird species
• Luki Biosphere Reserve—136 bird species
• Kundelungu National Park – 131 bird species
• Kahuzi Biega National Park – 349 bird species
• Lomaka Yekokora Forest – 50 bird species
• Garamba National Park – about 550 bird species
• Itombwe Mountains—563 bird species
• Bombo Lumene Game Reserve—over 255 bird species
• Ngiri Forest

You can now book your day trip for birdwatching activities to see various bird species.

 Epic Mountains in Congo

Discover the magnificent mountains in Congo that make it a destination for hikers. These interesting attractions stand high at elevations that add beauty to the country.

Mountain Nyiragongo

Located in the Virunga Ranges, the mountain Nyiragongo is a natural wonder and an amazing tourist attraction. The mountain is an active volcano in the Democratic Republic of Congo that was formed due to a volcanic eruption that happened a million years ago. It is one of the active volcanoes in Africa that has gone through different eruptions, with the recent eruption happening on 22 February 2024.

The mountain will also give you a view of the Mountain Nyiragongo lava lake, which lava lake has been the most voluminous and the largest lava lake in the world. Panoramic views of lake Kivu, Panoramic views of Virunga National Park, among others.

Other Mountains worth visiting in the Democratic Republic of Congo

• Nyamurangira 3058 meters
• Mount Mikeno 3711 meters
• Mount Bisoke 3711 meters
• Mount Gahinga 3470 meters
• The two extinct volcanoes of Bisoke and Kahuzi

Other mountains in the Republic of Congo

• Mount Nabemba, 1020 meters
• Mount Bamba 760 meters
• Mayombe Massif 800 meters
• Mount Berongue, 903 meters

Visit the epic Congo Mountains and let your spirit soar in this enchanting natural wonder.

 Lush Forests in Congo

Explore the vibrant greenery of the lush forest in Congo, the home to a variety of plant species, eastern lowland gorilla, chimpanzees, and many other species. The large and untouched rainforest defines Congo’s pristine wildness, and these forests have acted as a tourist spot, attracting many visitors to Congo.  These wonderful tourist spots in Congo bring in lots of visitors to the country. These forests include.

 Ituri Forest

This forest is another popular tourist attraction in Congo, a hidden gem that is worth seeing, located in the northern democratic republic of Congo. The forest covers an area of 63,000 km² (24,000 sq mi).

The forest’s vegetation is a mix of short and tall trees, creeping plants, and short and tall grasses. It is home to savannah woodland, animals like baboons, giraffes, African forest elephants, and in the northern grassland, the Ituri river, among others.

Visitors on a safari to Ituri also have a chance to visit the Okapi Wildlife Reserve since it is located within the forest.

Book now and experience the true essence of nature in Congo’s charming forests.

 Other Forests in Congo

These include

• Patte d’Oie Forest Reserve in the Republic of Congo
• Mayombe forest in the Republic of Congo on the wild coast
• Ngiri Forest
• Lomaka Yokokala Forest, among others

Whether you are a nature lover or a wildlife enthusiast, the Congo forests await.

 Water Bodies in Congo

The country is endowed with several water bodies, which include lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs, and streams that are worth seeing on your Congo safari. The following are the most visited.

Lake Kivu

Experience the pristine waters of Lake Kivu, ideal for swimming, and the awe-inspiring sunsets that transform the sky into vibrant hues. Don’t miss the chance to experience this peaceful haven in the heart of Africa.

Lake Kivu is another tourist lake that is shared by two countries, the democratic republic of Congo and Rwanda. It is the deepest freshwater lake with a depth of 485 meters (1,591 feet) on the African continent and the sixth largest lake in Africa after Uganda’s Lake Albert.

The lake covers an area of 2700 km² in total, and tourists can tour around the lake while on a Congo Nile trail as they discover the other tourist sights that are around the lake.

You will also see methane gas bubbles, water birds, different fish species like Nile tilapia, Ripon barbel, etc.

The lake is open to tourists throughout the year, and visitors can freely enjoy the sight of different attractions. And they can be seen while on a boat cruise, island hopping, swimming, and canoeing.

Other lakes include Ambale, Batuli, Bitei, Boyyo, Albert, Bikulika, Albar, Benait, etc.

Don’t miss the chance to experience lake Kivu, a peaceful haven in the heart of Africa.

 The Congo River

Explore the Congo River, the deepest river in the world, at around 220 m (720 ft) and 2900 miles (4700 km) long. Its scenic waters contribute to the country’s natural beauty.

The Congo River channels its waters into the Atlantic Ocean. It is thought to have powerful currents and treacherous rapids, making it unsafe for swimming. This is why there are over 40 power plants.

Several birds, hippos, over 700 fish species (e.g., Nile tilapia, etc.), and crocodiles call the river their home. There are also waterfalls on the same river, which attract many tourists to Congo.

Do not hesitate to visit the deepest river in the world for an unforgettable safari experience.

 Other Rivers in The Congo Brazzaville

Lefini River—it is a tributary of the Congo River.

Ogoou River—mainly in Gabon but also reaches the north of the Republic of Congo

Ubangi River—it is the largest tributary of the Congo River.

Dja River—this forms the border between Cameroon and the Republic of Congo, with around 450 miles.

Likouala-mossaka – it is a tributary of the Congo River that enters the eastern part of Mossaka town.

Nyanza River—it is 600 km long.

Other Rivers in The Democratic Republic of Congo

• Lomami River—a major tributary flowing into the main river.
• Aruwimi River—a tributary flowing into the main river
• Kasai River (Kwa River)—Amajor river system with many known for its numerous tributaries and a complex network.
• Lukaya
• Lukunga
• Lukenie, among others

 Waterfalls In Congo

Congo is endowed with a plethora of magnificent waterfalls that are scattered across its rivers. Their ability to generate hydroelectricity, thanks to the numerous rapids, makes them a fascinating tourist attraction in Congo.

The country’s landscape is adorned with impressive natural wonders, creating an awe-inspiring sight for all to behold. These waterfalls include

• Livingstone Waterfalls—named after the British explorer David Livingstone, the Livingstone Waterfalls in the Democratic Republic of Congo begin from Malebo pool to the Bas Congo (Matadi).
• Zongo waterfalls—located in the Bas-Uele province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The waterfalls originate from the Zongo River, plunging into a narrow, deep gorge at 328 feet high.
• Boyoma Falls– it is located along the Lualaba River in the DR Congo. Boyoma Falls is a collection of 7 rapids, each rising to a height of 4.5 meters. You can also have a look at the beautiful waterfall as you go to the bustling city of Kisangani.

Visit these wonderful waterfalls for a memorable safari experience.

 Sparkling Cities in Congo

Discover the vibrant cities of Congo, each a sparkling gem waiting to be explored. From the bustling markets to the lively streets, you’ll be greeted with warmth and hospitality. These include

Kinshasa

This vibrant city, a hidden gem to be explored, is located on the southern banks of the Congo River, about 320 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. It is the largest city in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with many other attractions, which include

Nightlife in Kinshasa 

While on your Congo gorilla safaris, you can get a chance to enjoy the nightlife in Kinshasa’s best hotels and clubs like Afro Negro, Djambo-Djambu and many others.

With the help of an experienced private guide, you will be able to enjoy the city life and immerse yourself in the Congo’s rich cultural heritage.

Congo Museums and Historical Buildings in Kinshasa

Kinshasa, as the hub of power and economic activity, has several notable structures worth seeing. They include

Kinshasa National Museum—This museum has archives of numerous objects that display the history of the city and the culture of different tribes in Congo.

Palais de la Nation—the structure was built in 1956, first as a residential house for Belgian governors, but now works as the courts of law.

Jardin Botanique de Kisantu—this is a botanical garden of tree seedlings and flowers that are worth visiting. These gardens provide a quiet place for a picnic and relaxation.

Kinshasa University—this is a public institute of higher education and one of the oldest in Africa, established in 1954 as Lovanium University during Belgian rule.

Symphonie Des Arts—this is a greenery store that accommodates beautiful handicrafts that showcase the talents and rich cultural heritage of Congo.

The Kinshasa Central Market (Arche Central de Kinshasa)—This is the most visited central market in DR Congo in Kinshasa city. It is a place to express the Congolese lifestyle, where tourists and locals trade in local products.

A local tour company or an experienced private guide can assist in organizing a city trip.

Book now and let the magic of Congo’s urban life enchant you. Make unforgettable memories along the way.

 Pointe Noire City

This city acts as the main port of Congo Brazzaville, lying along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.

Pointe Noire is the second-largest city in Congo-Brazzaville. The city covers an area of 2,134 km² with a population of about 1,420,612 people as of the 2023 census. Pointe Noire is also a center of oil production as well as fishing.

 You will also have a look at the following while in Pointe Noire

• Cascade aux Ecrevisses—it is a small waterfall.
• Forest house – a place that offers picnics and other events
• Cascade Ravines Tambour—a wonderful waterfall that also gives room to swim

 Visit Pointe Noire city for lots of fun and memorable safaris.

 Other vibrant cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Congo offering amazing sights include.

Lubumbashi is a large city, famous for mining and trading in copper and cobalt.

Kisangani—it is a trading hub and known for being near Virunga National Park, one of the oldest national parks and the most visited national park.

Brazzaville – is the major city of the Republic of Congo, which is a base of international trade.

Goma—a vibrant city along the borders of Rwanda and Congo

Bukavu—it is a vibrant city known for being home to the popular Virunga National Park.

Kananga—it is a vibrant city in the Kananga region known for its agriculture and trade.

Boma – a port city along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.

Mbuji-Mayi – It is a vibrant city known for the diamond trade.

Mbandaka—it is located along the Congo River, known for fishing and commerce.

Pointe-Noire—This city acts as the main port of Congo Brazzaville, lying along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.

 Religious Sites in Congo

Visit Congo’s remarkable religious centers that rank among the top things to see in Congo, drawing in visitors from all corners of the world, not only for adventure but also spiritual edification. The following are some of the religious sites in Congo.

Kinshasa Mosque—a famous religious site with beautiful architecture that serves the Lebanese community in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Eglise CBFC-Gombe—this is a protestant church known for English sermons that have been conducted for some good years, conducted with two congregations. It also has a rich history of people from the past.

Congo Hindu Temple—located in Kinshasa on the western side near the French school, behind the Zimbali flower garden.

Chabad-Lubavitch of Central Africa—This is a Jewish synagogue in Kinshasa.

Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple—it is the temple of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is a place of high sacraments and making formal promises and commitments to God.

Sims’s Chapel—it is the oldest church in Kinshasa, constructed under the influence of Sims.

Grand Mosque—it is a prominent mosque known for its impressive architecture.

Sacred Heart Cathedral—it is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the city of Brazzaville, and it is the seat of the bishop of one of the archdeacons of Brazzaville. It is considered one of the oldest churches in the country.

American Baptist missionary society chapel – this was established by the American British mission that played a role in the establishment of the protestant church in the democratic republic of Congo.

Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Pointe Noire—this archdiocese is located in the city of Pointe Noire in Congo, Brazzaville. It was elevated to the status of an archdiocese on May 30, 2020.

 Tourist Attractions in Congo FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is famous in the Congo? 

Congo is famous for its rich mineral deposits, mainly cobalt, copper, and gold, and its diverse wildlife, like the big five, the big cats, antelopes, and many others.

2. Why do tourists visit the Congo? 

Tourists from different parts of the world visit Congo for its rich biodiversity, which includes the rare endangered mountain gorillas, rich mineral deposits, and rich cultural heritage.

3. What is a famous landmark in the Republic of Congo? | What is Congo Republic known for? 

The famous landmark in the Republic of Congo is the oldest Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur de Brazzaville, which was built in 1892 and set apart for religious duties in 1894, the oldest cathedral in central Africa.

4. Is Congo good for tourists?

Congo is good for travel, though some other places are not safe. Most of the national parks, like Garamba National Park, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, are safe, but other places that are not may include forests like the Ituri Forest due to some rebels who hide there. It is good to seek guidance from government advisories.

Note: For a good night’s stay while on your safari, consider Mikeno Lodge, your best option.

Congo offers a warm welcome to visitors seeking unique attractions both in the Congo Brazzaville and the Democratic Republic of Congo. From lush rainforests to vibrant cultures, there is something for everyone to enjoy. For gorilla enthusiasts, gorilla trekking safari activities and other wildlife in national parks like Garamba National Park are prepared for you. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful things to see.