The Democratic republic of Congo is one of the most endowed countries in the whole world. Yes, that statement is not a mistake or flattery because with what this Central African country holds, you may think you are in Paradise. Actually, DRC is a true African paradise yet is still a virgin tourist destination because majority of her attractions are totally untouched and unexplored due to the conflicts that still eat up the country. However, let me introduce just some portion of the beautiful things you will see when you visit this magnificent country while on a safari. Natural landmarks which form the largest portion of the country’s attractions include several volcanoes (Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira among others), breathtaking waterfalls and large Lakes such as Lake Kivu and Lake Tanganyika among others. When it comes to some of the monuments, you will be able to learn more about the history of the country.
Tomb of former President-Laurent Kabila
The Tomb of former president of the Democratic Republic of Congo-Laurent Kabila is one of the magnificent monuments in this country and it must not miss on your bucket list and itinerary. While at this site, you will be able to learn a lot about the country’s history. This Tomb is found within Kinshasa and was put up to honor the life of this great President who was born in 1939, ruled the country from 1997 until 2001 when he passed away. He was later succeeded by his son-Joseph Kabila Kabange who still rules the country.
Kisantu Catholic Cathedral
You will be very amazed by the appearance and architectural design of this Church. Much as it is a small church, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sites you can ever come across in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This fascinating landmark is simple but beyond the ordinary and what you have ever seen before. If you get the chance to access the inside of the church, you will be able to marvel at the detailed and intricate design and bricks that form an elaborate pattern on the walls of the Church. It is said that the bricks originated from the ancient brick factory that once existed within the grounds of the close Kisantu Botanical Gardens. It is also said that this specific site was categorically selected to construct the church because the early missionaries preferred and loved the beautiful climate and setting of the place, and also the fact that it was far from the estuary and its numerous mosquitoes.
Lake of my Valley
This leisure site offers tourists with the opportunity to experience fishing safaris or explore some of the fascinating trails that lead you to interesting bird species. Alternatively, you can just choose to relax and chill at the lakeside or the nearby restaurant.
Lake Kivu
This enormous freshwater Lake lies at the DRC-Rwanda border and offer breathtaking activities that allow tourists to just relax and chill while relishing the sights and sounds around the Lake. Besides it vast size (it’s the 6th largest Lake in Africa), it’s a home to numerous Islands with exceptional bird species.
Lake Tanganyika
Lake Tanganyika is known as the second largest fresh water Lake in the whole World in terms of surface water area. It is unique for the 350 exceptional fish species in addition to the beautiful African Tanganyika Cichlids. The interesting activities to enjoy within Lake Tanganyika include swimming, boat rides and snorkeling among others.
Mount Nyiragongo and Mount Nyamuragira
These two active Volcanoes are found within Virunga National Park in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and account for two-fifth of Volcanic eruptions in Africa. Mount Nyiragongo has erupted for more than 40 times with the recent ones being in 2002 leading to destruction and displacement of people in Goma. It is believed that Mount Nyamuragira was formed during Mount Nyiragongo’s 1977 eruption and reminds visitors of its extremely explosive and destructive nature. Tourists interested in Mountain/Volcano climbing can do it from Mount Nyiragongo and be rewarded with views of the breathtaking Lava depression at its Peak.
The mighty Congo River
River Congo is the second largest River in Africa after River Nile. This mighty River drains the extreme South of the country before flowing to the magnificent Stanley falls and the present day Kisangani before proceeding westwards and finally into the Atlantic Ocean (Eastern side of DRC). Interestingly, this River is surrounded by a verdant Tropical rainforest. Don’t miss to visit a place that appeared in Joseph Conrad’s book titled “Heart of Darkness”. Most importantly, this River is a home to numerous waterfalls and rapids with the Livingstone falls being the best.
Zongo waterfalls
Although these waterfalls are difficult to reach, they are undeniably one of the most breathtaking sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
More spectacular views are relished if you visit in the rainy season where the water becomes as white as snow.
In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the most endowed countries in the African continent and takes prides in sites such as the Zongo waterfalls, the mighty Congo River, Lake Tanganyika, Mount Nyiragongo and Nyamuragira, the Lake of my Valley, Lake Kivu, Tombs of Laurent Kabila and Kisantu Catholic Cathedral among others.
