Kinshasa
A river of music, markets, and millions in motion.The largest city in central Africa has active street markets, local dishes like fufu and nyama choma, and a population of over 15 million people along the Congo River.
Kinshasa, the capital of Democratic Republic of the Congo, lies along the southern bank of the Congo River. In this city of 15 million people, you can watch rescued bonobos at Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary, walk through the riverside paths of Nsele Valley Park, and explore the grand halls of Palais de la Nation. The city's port, universities, and football stadiums make it Central Africa's major economic center.
Geography and Climate
Kinshasa sits on a crescent-shaped plain beside the Malebo Pool, where the Congo River widens to 9,965 square kilometers. The city's elevation reaches 300 meters above sea level. Local farmers grow cassava, sugarcane, and oil palms in the surrounding areas. Temperatures stay between 25-30°C year-round, with a dry season from May to September and a rainy season from October to May. Annual rainfall reaches 1,520 mm, typically falling in short, intense storms.
Public Transport and Taxis
You can travel through Kinshasa on Transco buses, which run on main routes between 6 AM and 8 PM. Yellow-painted registered taxis operate in most areas. Book your airport pickup through your hotel or a reliable transport company before arrival. Le Beach Ngobila port stretches for 7 kilometers along the Congo River, with regular ferries crossing to Brazzaville, located 4 kilometers away. Many visitors prefer to hire cars with drivers from local agencies.
City Parks and Sanctuaries
At Nsele Valley Park, you can walk along riverside paths and use designated picnic areas next to the Nsele River. Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary, 25 kilometers south of the city, lets you observe rescued bonobos in their 30-hectare forest habitat. Visit the Jardin Zoologique in Gombe commune to see leopards and several primate species native to Congo. The Jardin Botanique grows medicinal plants and trees from the Congo Basin.
Neighborhoods and Architecture
The Gombe district houses embassies and government offices. The city center has apartment blocks and office buildings from the 1970s. In the western hills, the Binza area has large mansions with gardens. Most residential neighborhoods consist of concrete-block houses along unpaved streets.
Safety and Practical Information
Base yourself in the Gombe commune, where most hotels and administrative buildings are located. Keep your original passport in a safe place and carry a certified copy. You can use US dollars or Congolese francs for payments. Expect regular power outages throughout the city. Medical facilities require immediate payment and might not have basic supplies.
Sports Culture
Watch football matches at the 80,000-capacity Stade des Martyrs, home to the city's main teams Vita Club and Daring Club Motema Pembe. Local martial arts schools and competitions draw many participants throughout the city.
