Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for the Democratic Republic of the Congo depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for the Democratic Republic of the CongoEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 112
- Ambulance
- 118
Currency
- Name
- Congolese Franc
- Code
- CDF
- Symbol
- FC
USD is widely accepted and often preferred. Carry small USD bills in good condition.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type D, Type E
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
WAT (UTC+1) in Kinshasa — CAT (UTC+2) in the east
Best Time to Visit
Dry season June to September is best for Virunga gorilla trekking and the Nyiragongo volcano hike (when permitted).
Major Airports
- FIH
N'djili International Airport
Kinshasa · main international hub
- FBM
Lubumbashi International Airport
Lubumbashi
- GOM
Goma International Airport
Goma · gateway to Virunga NP
Tipping Customs
In USD or CDF
USD 50+ for gorilla trekking rangers
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | In USD or CDF |
| Guides | USD 20+ per day | USD 50+ for gorilla trekking rangers |
Dress Code
What "modest dress" usually means
Shoulders and knees covered, nothing tight or sheer, no low-cut tops, no visible underwear or midriff. Loose, breathable fabrics work best in warm climates. In most places this is a social expectation rather than a legal rule — the country-specific notes below add any extras (headscarves at mosques, long trousers in temples, etc.).
- Modest dress for all public settings
- Durable hiking gear essential for Virunga
Social Etiquette
- French is official; Lingala, Swahili, Kikongo and Tshiluba are regional
- Virunga National Park is operated at considerable risk by rangers — treat them with the respect that reality deserves
- Avoid political discussion
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required
- Photography of government, military, bridges and airports is strictly forbidden — enforced heavily
- Travel permits required for most regions outside Kinshasa
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Lingala) | Mbote | m-BOH-teh |
| Thank you (Lingala) | Matondi | ma-TON-dee |
| Thank you (Swahili, eastern DRC) | Asante | ah-SAN-teh |
Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Traveller builds your personalised packing list, checklist, and travel brief in seconds.
Plan this trip with Traveller