CONGO

The Land of Steamy
jungles and active volcano

Witness The World Around You

Art Lies Everywhere Your Eyes Can Look

Nyiragongo volcanoes

Leave Only Footprints Create Only Moments

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VISIT DR.CONGO, CONGO TOURS AND TRAVEL, CONGO SAFARI TOURS, CONGO GORILLA SAFARI TOURS, CONGO PHOTO SAFARI TOURS 2021-2022 
Are you looking for Congo gorilla tracking safari tours, Dr. Congo wildlife safari tours, or Hiking Mount Nyiragongo during this 2021-2022?
Dr.Congo Safari tours or Congo tour and travel
include Congo primate tracking safari tours like Congo Banono Monkeys, Congo Chimpanzee trekking safari tours, Congo gorilla trekking safari tours to Virunga national park and Congo lowland gorilla trekking safari tours to Kahuzi beige national park, hiking mount Nyiragongo trekking and climbing trips, Dr.Congo Wildlife Safari tours to the various Congo National Parks, Dr. Congo cultural and community tribes photography tours, Congo birding/birdwatching as well as the beautiful sceneries of Congo on your safari tour in Congo.
For a successful Congo trip, you will need some DR.Congo travel advice, DR.Congo travel season, DR.Congo travel advice, DR.Congo tours, when to visit DR.Congo, DR.Congo tours, DR.Congo safaris, DR.Congo safari tours, DR.Congo tourist attractions, DR.Congo hotels, DR.Congo lodges, DR.Congo safari lodges, DR.Congo hotels, Kinshasa lodges, Kinshasa Accommodation, Kinshasa Accommodation, Visit Congo, DR.Congo National Parks, DR.Congo wildlife Tour.

For Congo Tours and safaris, Ultimate wild safaris take you on a journey to discover the undiscovered, the best  Congo safari tours at affordable Congo gorilla trekking safari tours prices, we customize your gorilla safari tours based on your  Congo gorilla trekking safari tours budget as witnessed by many of our Dr congo gorilla trekking safari tour trip advisors satisfied clients.
 
DR Congo has long been an isolated country with no tourism prospects. The country has changed dramatically over the last few years with publicity for the Virunga National Park and other areas in this vast Central African country. We are one of the few tour operators who offer tours to this mysterious country.
The world's largest Gorilla's, the Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, relaxing on Tchegera island in Lake Kivu or opt tracking the endangered Congo mountain Gorillas in the oldest national park in Africa. Congo has it all and Ultimate wild Safaris will organize everything for your once-in-a-lifetime tour.
Whatever your timeline and budget we offer Congo tours to fit your needs. Whether you are looking for an adventure, track the Congo lowland gorilla or the Congo mountain gorilla, Ultimate wild safaris can organize it! Would you like to climb the Nyiragongo volcanoes, visit Goma, go to Virunga national park or take a boat ride on Lake Kivu?
We can organize it all! We offer both group tours and private tours to the highlights but also the hidden places in South Sudan, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. Enquire from here!

DR CONGO TOURS AND TRAVEL CONGO SAFARI TOURS, CONGO DESTINATIONS PLACES TO VISIT 2021-202!
Virunga National park The oldest national park dating from 1925 and the most varied region on the African continent. The snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, Active volcanoes, Mountain Gorillas, and Chimpanzees. This Virunga National park was declared a UNESCO world heritage site and is now also on the list of World Heritage sites in danger. The park’s 7800 square kilometers (3000 square miles) includes forests, savannas, lava plains, swamps, erosion valleys, active volcanoes, and the glaciated peaks of the Rwenzori mountains.

Mountain Gorilla tracking This park is one of the best places on the continent to view from up close to the rare mountain gorilla.

Senkwekwe Gorilla orphanage Safari tours 
The Senkwekwe Center, located at park headquarters in Rumangabo at walking distance from Mikeno lodge. This the only facility in the world that cares for mountain gorilla orphans. Each of the four gorillas living at the center was victimized by poachers or animal traffickers, and likely witnessed family members being murdered. Thanks to the financial support of individuals around the world – and the loving care provided by their human caregivers – the orphans now lead happy and secure lives in their forested enclosure. Although you are not allowed to interact with the orphanage gorilla's it is still nice to see how the local community takes care of these orphanage gorillas.

Rwindi plains  safari tours
One of the hidden secrets of the Virunga national park is the Rwindi plains. Beautiful Savanna surrounded by the Mountains and Lake Edward with its huge Hippo population. Lions, Elephants, antelopes, and Buffalo are common in the area. The animal population used to be very dense in this region but due to illegal hunting, the numbers declined over the years. The region is now recovering and is expected to soon open again for visitors to a traditional safari.

Chimpanzee habituation walking safari tours
In February 2014, a Congolese team trained by the Frankfurt Zoological Society began habituating a group of chimpanzees living in the forests around park headquarters in Rumangabo. Guests staying at Mikeno Lodge can join this team on their daily visits to the chimpanzees. The day begins when a group of local trackers leaves their camp at 4:30 am to locate where the chimpanzees spent the previous night. Lodge guests set out at 6:00 am to find the chimpanzees. Groups are limited to 4 people and time with the chimpanzees is restricted to one hour.

MOUNTAIN GORILLA TRACKING SAFARI TOURS
For many travelers, the tracking of gorillas ranks among one of the most exhilarating highlights of their trip to Africa. Mountain Gorillas are one of the world’s most endangered species of apes. It is estimated that there are currently fewer than 900 individuals left throughout the world. Nearly half of these can be found in Uganda, but significant populations can also be found in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Parc National de Volcans in Rwanda. The Virunga National park is one of the last remaining places on earth where you can see the rare and endangered Mountain Gorilla.

Together with its neighboring countries Uganda & Rwanda, this is the only place where you will find them. Especially in DR Congo, it has been a real struggle to conserve the Virunga national park and its inhabitants. Due to civil war and a large influx of refugees, their habitat has been eroded almost to the point of extinction. Recent plans for drilling oil in this region have only made things worse. Luckily due to the documentary film Virunga, was bought to the attention of the world. Activists from all over the world try to stop the plans of oil drilling in the region to preserve this oldest park in Africa. There are roughly 300 mountain gorillas left in the Virunga national park.

CONGO GORILLAS TRACKING TOUR RULES.

  • While searching for the gorillas A maximum number of 8 visitors may visit a family/group of habituated gorillas per day.
  • Always keep your voices low. This will ensure that you will be able to observe the beautiful birds and other wildlife in the forest.
  • To avoid exposing our furry friends to strange germs, wash your hands before you head out for the tracking.
  • Do not leave garbage in the park.
  • Always keep your voices low. This will ensure that you will be able to observe the beautiful birds and other wildlife in the forest.
  • Do not leave garbage in the park 
Gorilla Tracking Tour Tips: 
  • Your group of trackers will be heading to the stop where the guides left the gorillas the day before. From the nesting spot, you will track them to their current location. This can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours. 
  • As you approach the gorillas, the guides will signal when to get your cameras ready. How to behave while among the gorillas.
  • It is okay to ask the guide questions, but keep your voices low.
  • Do not eat or drink while you are near the gorillas.
  • Sometimes the gorillas charge. Follow the guide’s example by crouching down slowly, and do not look into the gorillas in the eyes. Wait for the gorilla to pass you by and do not attempt to run away (as this can increase the risk of attack).
  • Flash photography is not permitted; when taking pictures, move slowly and carefully.
  • Do not touch the gorillas. Keep in mind that though they may look warm and cuddly, they are still wild animals. Keep a distance of at least 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas at all times.
  • The maximum time visitors are allowed to spend with the gorillas is exactly one hour and the rangers are quite strict about this.

HIKING CONGO NYIRAGONGO VOLCANO.
Nyiragongo Climbing one of the most active volcanoes in the world, stunning nature and a sea of lava when you reach the summit. Climbing the Nyiragongo volcano is one of the highlights of visiting DR Congo. In 4-6 hours, you will reach the summit where you will spend the night in the basic summit shelters. At night the large lava sea in the crater of the volcano is a fascinating sight. You will have a porter carrying your backpack while you concentrate on the beauty of this volcano. Reaching the top your hot meal awaits you prepared by your personal cook. Not many people have gone before you on this thrilling adventure.

Nyiragongo Hiking Requirements:
Climbing one of the world's active volcanoes is a real thrill. To enjoy it to the fullest, it is important to pack the following essentials:

  • Fleece vest 
  • Sleeping bag
  • Lunch package
  • Personal cook who prepares hot meals on the summit
  • Personal porter to carry your luggage Gears you need to carry:
  •  Rain gear
  • Good hiking shoes
  • Change of clothes
  • Extra warm clothing for the summit
  • your photo camera with enough batteries

GOMA TOWN TOUR 
This is the capital of the North Kivu province. It is one of the DRCongo's best-connected cities. In the year 2002, the looming Nyiragongo volcano erupted and the lava buried most of the town's streets, particularly the center. Goma is also the base to climb Nyiragongo volcano, to see the mountain Gorillas tracked in Virunga National Park, to do a game drive in Virunga National Park, or to begin a fascinating overland to Kisangani, and cruise on the Congo river up to Kinshasa. The lava that burnt the town in 2002 destroyed the big cathedral which is an impressive sight. The handicraft shops where you can buy traditional Congolese masks are also nice to shop for souvenirs. Don't miss out on the nightlife of Goma and its traditional Lingala music.

TCHEGERA ISLAND TOUR 
Tchegera Island Camp is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Goma or to relax after climbing the Nyiragongo volcano. Situated off the northern shore of L. Kivu, Tchegera camp offers spectacular views of the lake and four volcanoes. On clear nights, Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira volcanoes add to the drama by turning the night sky red with their glowing lava. There is also an abundance of birdlife on the island, including African eagles, cormorants, herons, and gulls. Whether one chooses to relax on the beach or explore other parts of the island in a sea kayak or by paddleboard, Tchegera is the perfect place for rest and relaxation.

BUKAVU SAFARI TOUR
Situated on the hills and shore of Lake Kivu this is easily the most scenic town of DR Congo. You will find old colonial buildings near the lakeside from its Belgian colonial past. It is a great escape from Goma which is situated on the northern tip of the lake. Easily accessible by boat from Goma or by road via de Cyangugu border with Rwanda. The Catholic Cathedral in the town center is the main attraction. Also worth a visit is the Center de Rehabilitation des Primates in the neighboring town of Lwiro. This primate sanctuary is also a research center built by the Belgians.

KAHUZI - BIEGA NATIONAL PARK Tour 
Kahuzi Biega National Park is the home of lowland Gorillas. The park is located about a 30 km drive from Bukavu and is easily accessible. Tracking these endangered and intriguing animals is a real retreat as they are quite different from the Mountain Gorillas found in Virunga National Park. Kahuzi Biega National Park is a mountainous jungle area dominated by two extinct volcanos;

Kahuzi - Biega.
There are numerous gorilla families in the park as well as chimpanzees, monkeys, buffalos, antelopes, and forest elephants.

Lowland Gorilla tracking Tour
Only four of the gorilla families have been conditioned to accept human visitors. Book your tour to see the Congo Lowland Gorillas in time to get a Gorilla permit. Kahuzi – Biega national park is the world's last remaining natural habitat for the Eastern Lowland Gorillas. You have the smaller Western Lowland gorilla which lives in neighboring Congo-Brazaville but these huge and Majestic Eastern Lowland Gorillas - also known as Grauer's Gorilla - cannot be missed. The average walk is between 2-3 hours before you reach the Gorilla family. Expect to walk on steep and sometimes slippery terrain. Congolese ranger will accompany you and tell you all about the behavior and habituation of the Congo Lowland gorillas. You are allowed to spend 1 hour with them before you will return to the starting point.

Mounatain Kahuzi Hiking Tour
This is the highest peak in the park, at 3,308m. The climb takes approximately 4 hours through bamboo forest and sub-alpine vegetation, and 3 hours to descend. The summit provides spectacular views of Lake Kivu and the city of Bukavu.

Mountain Biega Hiking Tour
The second highest peak in the park lies at an altitude of 2790m. The vegetation differs significantly from Mount Kahuzi making it a wonderful ecological experience. The climb takes about 6 hours to return, so it is important to make an early start.

Lwiro Primate rehabilitation center
The Centre de Rehabilitation des Primates de Lwiro (CRPL) was established in 2002 when it became apparent that the illegal trade in wildlife for bushmeat was a problem in the area and that the animals confiscated as a result required rehabilitation and long term care. The CRPL houses 55 chimpanzees and 75 monkeys, representing more than ten different species. With established education and awareness programs, and as the only wildlife sanctuary in the region. The Centre is situated just outside the boundary of the UNESCO-listed Kahuzi-Biega national park.

IDJWI ISLAND TOUR 
Idjwi Island is situated in the middle of Lake Kivu and is the territory of the Democratic Republic of Congo. At a length of 70 km, it is the second-largest inland island in Africa! Many people do not know this island and its indigenous pygmy tribe living on it. It is possible to visit one of the local tribes on the island by motorbike tour on the island. It is easily accessible from either Goma or Bukavu by boat.

Here are some of the popular Dr. Congo safari tours, Congo tours, Congo safari tours, Congo photo tours,  Congo chimpanzee trekking safari tours, Congo mOUNT Nyiragongo Volcanoes Hiking, and Congo gorilla tracking safari tours 2021-2022

  1.  3 Days Hiking Nyiragongo volcano
  2. 3 Day Congo Tour - Gorilla Tracking Tour in Congo Virunga National Park
  3. 4 Days Congo Gorilla safari tours and Nyiragongo Hike safari tours 
  4. 5 Days Congo Safari Tours, Congo Chimpanzee, and Gorilla tracking safari tours
  5. 6 Days Congo tour, Virunga national park,tchegera island, lake Kivu, Nyiragongo volcano
  6. 10 Days Congo Safari Tours, Congo gorilla safari tours, Chimpanzee trekking tour, and Nyiragongo hiking Safari tours
  7. 12 Days Congo Tour, queen Elizabeth national park, Bwindi impenetrable forest park, volcanoes national park, Nyiragongo volcanoes, lake Kivu, Kahuzibeige national park
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3 Days Hiking Nyiragongo volcano

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3 Day Congo Gorilla Tour| Congo Gorilla Trekking Safari Tour| Virunga National Park Gorilla Tour

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6 Days Congo tour, virunga national park,tchegera island,lake kivu,nyiragongo volcano

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12 Days Congo Tour, queen Elizabeth national park, bwindi impenetrable forest park, volcanoes national park, nyirangongo volcanoes, lake kivu, Kahuzibeige national park

CONGO HOTELS AND LODGES;
We visit all accommodation in Congo ourselves to be able to select the best accommodation for you and to give you advice from personal experience! Our selection criteria are focused on the view, service, location, style and price of each lodge. We also select accommodation based on the feedback from previous clients. Have a look below on our recommended selection of accommodation in each area of Congo. We give options in different standards and budgets.

Please Note:
Congo has not been a tourist destination for many years and there are only a few comfortable options. Do realize as well that most visitors will be NGO staff. Tourists are rare species.

Accommodation Rating
“Budget” - Accommodation such as simple guesthouses or dormitory rooms are available in many cities in DR Congo. Service and amenity standards won't be high and you are likely to share facilities with other guests, but choosing this standard can make a big difference in the price of the tour.

“Mid-range” – We are originally focused mainly on the mid-range market and therefore has a special ability to choose the best accommodation of this standard. This is your best option for comfortable, self-contained ('en suite') accommodation set in stunning locations that don't cost a fortune.

“Semi-luxury” - Accommodation falling in this category is more comfortable than the mid-range. The locations are similar, but the details are further refined. These lodges often have a swimming pool, as well.

“Luxury” - The luxurious accommodation is fully equipped, comfortable and usually more spacious than the mid-range options. They often have facilities like swimming pools, masseurs and sometimes even private butlers.

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Lake Kivu Lodge
Mid Range

Lake Kivu Lodge -mid-range. Expect a memorable luxury experience at the moment you enter the paradise that lies within the Lac Kivu Lodge located in Goma, Republic of the Congo.

A beautiful property recently extensively renovated in lush tropical grounds on the shore of Lake Kivu with its private pontoon. Lake Kivu is considered to be one of Africa's great lakes, and lies in the Albertine Rift Valley sharing the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The lake is surrounded by hundreds of hills and mountains.

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Kibumba Camp
Mid Range

Kibumba is a great choice for those wanting to stay within the park’s borders, offering an authentic camping experience amidst Virunga’s flora and fauna with the added benefit of not having to drive long distances to begin your trek. Two permanent lodges provide a warm and welcoming space for guests to gather and share stories of their time in this wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Mikeno Lodge
Luxury

Mikeno Lodge offers twelve unique bungalows, fashioned with lava stone, mahogany and thatch are nestled amidst the thick forest greenery and reaching trees. Comprised of a comfortable lounging area and fireplace to ward off the crisp evening air, the spacious bungalows enjoy en-suite bathrooms with stone carved baths and curved stone showers. The decor merges Congolese ethnicity and classic simplicity with patterned rugs, soft tones and sleek wooden furniture; whilst the private deck allows guests to enjoy the performance of the Blue and Colobus monkeys in the forest. Enjoyed beneath the thatched boma at the main lodge, dining is delicious and flavorsome.
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Bukimia Tented Camp - Semi Luxury

Just outside the Virunga National Park boundary lays the Bukima tented camp, which is one of the main starting points Virunga mountain gorilla treks. The camp was originally built for researchers, but is now used primarily by trekkers. As the name suggests, overnight guests at Bukima sleep in platform tents, but by camping standards they are quite plush. Each tent is equipped with a nicely appointed bed and dresser for clothes. The views from the tent sites – or anywhere in camp for that matter – are spectacular.

To the south, the view is dominated by Mountain Mikeno, whose 4437m (14,560’) summit towers over the gorilla sector. Across the valley is Nyiragongo volcano, whose lava lake colors the night sky with a red glow. Every few years, Nymulagira volcano erupts and steals the nighttime show by spewing hot lava hundreds of feet into the air. Occasionally, the mountain gorillas themselves wander into the Bukima tented camp. Although this is highly frowned up by park staff, it never ceases to impress the guests.

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Nyiragongo summit shelter
Budget

Nyiragongo summit shelter –Budget. Sleeping on the crater rim of the active Nyiragongo volcano is a once in a life time experience. Stunning views of the lava lake at night. The accommodation is very basic at the moment. We expect that by July 2016 there will be a newly build accommodation on the crater rim with a common area. Your personal cook will prepare a delicious hot meal for you. In your backpack you will have a comfortable sleeping bag to keep you warm at night. In the morning you wake up feeling like you are on the top of the world!

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Orchids Safari club
Semi-Luxury

The luxurious nature around Lake Kivu enables us to welcome you in an exceptional environment. This sleek and elegantly decorated hotel offers a mixture of contemporary and traditional African styles. An hour from Bukavu, along Lake Kivu, you can discover Kahuzi Biega National Park. This park is one of the last nature reserves to home gorillas.

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Tchegera Island Camp
Mid-Range

Tchegera Island Camp is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Goma or to relax after climbing Nyiragongo volcano. Situated off the northern shore of L. Kivu, Tchegera camp offers spectacular views of the lake and four volcanoes. On clear nights, Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira volcanoes add to the drama by turning the night sky red with their glowing lava. There is also an abundance of birdlife on the island, including African eagles, cormorants, heron and gulls. Whether one chooses to relax on the beach or explore other parts of the island in a sea kayak or by paddle board, Tchegera is the perfect place for rest and relaxation. Accommodation reservations include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

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STANDARD: 4X4 SAFARI VAN
Our standard mode of transport is by road and we use 4×4 Safari Vans customized for game viewing and photography. Each safari van comes with a professionally trained driver guide and fuel for the whole safari.

Our Safari vans have viewing hatches and each client is entitled to a window seat. Our Vans can take up to eight people. We also have 4×4 Super Customs very comfortable and stable on the road. These carry up to 5 people with their luggage. We also have 4×4 RAV 4 for a group of two people

UPGRADE: 4X4 LUXURY SAFARI LANDCRUISER
We have luxury latest Land cruisers each driven by professionally trained driver guides and fuel. They have pop up roofs for proper game viewing and photography. They come with a small fridge for cooling your drinking water while on safari (which is always included while IN THE VEHICLE).

They have inverters for charging small gadgets such as your smart phones and cameras. They can seat five to a maximum of seven people and each client is guaranteed of a window seat.

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TRAVEL ADVICE.
This section will give some of the practical information you may need before departing and while on your trip.

Basic Information
Official Name: République démocratique du Congo Area: 2,345,409 km2 or 905,355 sq mi
Language: French, Swahili & Lingala Population: 6.5 million people.
Capital: Kinshasa Religious Affiliations:
Christians (47 %), Animists (25 %) and Muslim and syncretic minorities.

Climate
The Democratic Republic of the Congo lies on the Equator, with one-third of the country to the north and two-thirds to the south. The climate is hot and humid in the river basin and cool and dry in the southern highlands, with a cold, alpine climate in the Rwenzori Mountains. South of the Equator, the rainy season lasts from October to May and north of the Equator, from April to November. Along the Equator, rainfall is fairly regular throughout the year.During the wet season, thunderstorms often are violent but seldom last more than a few hours.

The average rainfall for the entire country is about 1,070 mm (42 in)The climate in the Eastern part of DR Congo (north & South Kivu provinces) are similar to neighboring Uganda and Rwanda. The rain season is from October to May but only short rains occur. In the dry season it can be quite dusty so we recommend you to get a dusk mask. The rain season is a good season to travel especially to Kahuzi-Biega national park where the Lowland Gorillas tend to be closer to the headquarters than in the dry season. In Virunga national park it can get quite cold in the evening due to the high elevation.,On the top of Mountain. Nyiragongo it is also cold especially at night.

DR Congo Visa.
A visa for DR Congo MUST be obtained before arrival from the consulate or embassy in your home country or via the immigration services in Kinshasa. You will need a visa acceptance form with a reference number on it and an invoice with your travel itinerary booked with the national park. Once you reach the border with DR Congo you will present both documents and you will receive a stamp in your passport.

DR Congo Monrey/Cash
The official currency of DR Congo is the Congolese Franc and the American dollar. Many lodge and restaurant prices will be set in US dollars while outside of lodges (souvenirs, snacks, etc.). Congolese Francs will be necessary. Most items can be paid for in dollars as well. US dollars printed before 2006 are not accepted in the country. When you exchange money, use big notes (50 or 100 US dollar). The exchange rate of smaller notes is much lower. Make sure notes are not cut, or damaged in any way. They will not be accepted.

Exchange Rates
It’s good to have some US dollars with you at all times. This is the hard currency in DR Congo and most widely used. For smaller items like souvenirs and local items we recommend you to change some of the dollars to Congolese Francs. This can be done in Goma or Bukavu. Before leaving the country, you may exchange Congolese Francs into Euros, dollars or pounds (obviously at a less favorable rate).

ATM Cards.
You can only find them in major cities like Bukavu and Goma. Do realize that the amount you can take out per day is sometimes limited to about $100,-. Note as well that ATMs can be empty or not working due to power cuts. Make sure you always have enough cash with you as a backup!

Credit Card:
Credit cards are only accepted at some lodges. Only at mayor hotels and up market lodges can this be used and these will add an extra 5 to 10% to the bill.

Traveler Cheques:
Traveler cheques are not commonly used in DR Congo.

Tipping
In DR Congo, it is customary and often expected that you give a tip to the local staff such as guides, rangers, and drivers. A common tip of US$ 10 – 15 per person per day can be expected for your tour leader who goes with you the entire tour. For you driver a tip of US$ 10 per day for the entire group is sufficient. In restaurants, we recommend a tip of about 10% of the bill.

Plugs and Voltage In DR Congo, European style plugs: 240 V, 50 Hz are the norm.

Internet in DR Congo Internet cafes can be found though the connection is generally very slow. WIFI is sometimes available in lodges. In general DR Congo is a country for adventurous travelers and internet resources are very limited to non-existing.

Charging camera and phone You can charge your cameras, phones and other electric items in most hotels. If you bring a couple of chargeable items you might consider bringing an adaptor with extra outlets since the amount of outlets is often limited. We'd advise you to bring extra batteries for your camera, since some hotels don’t have power and power cuts might occur.

Luggage We request you to bring a bag or suitcase made from a soft material. Hard cover suitcases are difficult to place in the car and are likely to break on the bumpy roads. When traveling with 4 persons or more we request you to limit the weight of your bag/suitcase to 15 kg.

Phone Mobile telephony has become very big in DR Congo. Throughout the country sim cards sell for less than a US dollar which you then can top up with credit and make reasonably priced calls to most international destinations. Please note that rural areas like Kahuzi-Biega national park and Virunga national park have very poor reception. The country code for DR Congo is 00243 or + 243

Gay Travelers Throughout Africa it is generally safe for gay people to travel. Unlike in neighboring Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, there is no official prohibition against homosexuality in Rwanda and it is unlikely that gay travelers will experience any particular difficulties.

Health Contact your general practitioner at least 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Country specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre, and useful information about healthcare abroad, including a country-by-country guide of reciprocal health care agreements with the UK, is available from NHS Choices.

Medical facilities in Rwanda are limited, particularly outside major towns. Medical help at the scene of an accident is likely to be equally scarce. In the case of a serious accident or illness, evacuation by air ambulance may be required. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and/or repatriation.

We highly recommend you to get a good travel insurance that covers travelling to countries with a negative travel advice. For more information please check the insurance section.

Safety and Risks
Every country in the world has a negative travel advice for traveling in Congo/ DRC. Ultimate Wild Safaris can only be held responsible for the organization of the trip itself. Traveling against the travel advice of your country therefore will be on your own risk and you will have to sign for this before going on tour with Ultimate Wild Safaris. Please check the status from the website of your own embassy and check if this will affect the validation your travel- or medical insurance. You might have to take alternative or additional travel and health insurances to be covered.

Travel with the right attitude Although the Democratic Republic of the Congo is no longer considered as risky as it used to be, it remains a destination for only the most seasoned, hardcore African traveler. It is not a country for the casual "tourist": The average backpacker, holidaymaker, and especially those seeking luxury safaris or organized cultural experiences. The DRC remains one of the least developed countries in Africa.

When you travel expect that almost every activity runs late, people do not speak English and service at hotels and activities are not to be compared with more experienced tourist destinations in Africa. As well information provided by guides and rangers can be a bit poor. Be flexible and patient. Those who do brave the elements to travel here are in for quite the adventure.

IHI Bupa international insurance
Travelling to an under developed country like DR Congo brings risks. The health facilities are very poor and the nearest evacuation to a good hospital is Kigali in Rwanda. There are only very few insurances that cover travel to countries with a negative travel advise. That is why we highly recommend you to insure yourself with IHI Bupa international. You can insure yourself for a single trip and it gives you premium coverage for medical air lifting in case of emergency. This insurance accepts people from all nationalities.

OVERVIEW These Terms and Conditions apply to any tours booked with Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. These Terms & Conditions govern the contractual relationship between Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd and yourself. Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully as by booking any tour with Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd you acknowledge that you have read and understood these Terms and Conditions and you accept and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you have confirmed a booking on any tours with more than one client named and booked


on such a booking, you shall be deemed to have accepted these Terms and Conditions on behalf of all clients named in the booking (including minors and those with a disability) and therefore all clients in that group indicate their acceptance and agreement to these Terms and Conditions. The client who confirmed the booking is considered to be the selected contact person for all other clients named in that booking.

1). DEPOSITS & FINAL PAYMENT
Upon booking a tour with Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd, a 30% deposit is required to secure the tour and begin the necessary booking processes and ground preparations. An invoice will be sent to the client together with the payment instructions. Final balance payment of the tour booked is required no later than 21 days before the tour starts. Bookings made within 21 days of the tour start date should be paid in full. All payments made to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd should be free of bank charges and credit card transaction surcharges. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not responsible for any charges levied or charged by third parties and/or financial institutions and payable by the client as a result of credit card or other payment transactions in connection with the purchase of a tour and will not refund or return any fees charged by such third parties in connection with payments made by clients to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd.

2). BOOKING AGREEMENT
A booking is confirmed and these Terms and Conditions shall apply when Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd has received the applicable deposit from the client and the client has received written confirmation from Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd of such booking. The client confirming the booking must be 18 years of age and above and agrees to provide full, complete and accurate information as requested by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd to confirm the booking.

Any client confirming a booking on any tours with more than one client named and booked on such booking represents and warrants to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd that:
a). They have all requisite consents and authority to make such a booking on behalf of all other clients named on the booking and have communicated all necessary information to the other clients in order for them to give free and fully informed authorization to do so. b). The information that they have provided regarding all clients is complete and accurate, and they have obtained all necessary consents and permissions to share such information with Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd for the purposes of completing the booking.

3). CANCELLATION POLICY
A client may cancel their booking by notifying Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. The applicable cancellation fees shall be determined with reference to the date on which the request to cancel is received by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd and are expressed hereinafter as a percentage of the total price paid for the canceled tour. (i) Cancellation received 35 days or more before the tour starts: No Cancellation Fees will be charged
(ii) Cancellation received 11 - 34 days before the tour starts: 30% Cancellation Fee will be charged. (iii) Cancellation received 3 – 10 days before the tour starts: 50% Cancellation Fee will be charged
(iv) Cancellation received within 48hrs before the tours start: 100% Cancellation Fee will be charged (v) Tailor-made tours may be subject to alternative cancellation terms, which will be communicated to applicable clients at the time of booking.

4). TRAVEL INSURANCE
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd does not provide travel insurance, therefore, the client must obtain travel insurance from their home country with the minimum recommended medical, evacuation, and repatriation coverage covering all applicable dates of any travel with Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd and this insurance must cover personal injury and emergency medical expenses. It is strongly recommended that clients also extend their coverage to include cancellation and all other expenses that might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience occurring to the client. The cost of the tour does not include any insurance coverage for the client, and that the client is required to obtain separate coverage at an additional cost to the tour price.
When obtaining travel insurance, the client must ensure the insurer is aware of the type of travel to be undertaken so that the insurer may properly cover travel on the applicable tour.

5). MEDICAL CONDITIONS
All clients are obligated to truthfully provide requested relevant medical information to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd upon booking their tour. Clients are responsible for assessing their own suitability and capability to participate in a tour with us. All clients should consult their physician regarding their fitness for taking part in the booked tour. Ultimate Safaris Ltd recommends all clients to seek their physician’s advice regarding necessary or advisable vaccinations, medical precautions, or other medical concerns regarding the entirety of the client’s travel with Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd does not provide medical advice. Adventure tours provided by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd involve visiting remote or less developed regions of Africa, where medical facilities may not meet the standards of those found in a client’s home country.
The condition of medical facilities in these areas varies and Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd makes no representations and gives no warranties in relation to the standard of such facilities or medical treatment in those regions.

6). SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd will strive to accommodate the special requests of clients, including (without limitation) dietary and accommodation requests, but such requests do not form part of these Terms and Conditions or the contract between the client and Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not liable for any failure to accommodate or fulfill such requests.

7). PRICES, SURCHARGES AND TAXES
Due to the nature of the tourism industry in Africa the prices of the resources on which it depends, the published price of any tour product is subject to change at any time, before or after booking confirmation, up to 30 days before the departure of such a tour. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd reserves the right to impose surcharges on any tour products, but only for reasons arising from increases in accommodation costs, transportation costs, fuel costs, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as third party supplier costs, currency and exchange fluctuations, park fees, increases in taxes, or government action which impacts the price of the applicable tours, but only where the increase in question is substantial enough to warrant the right to impose these surcharges. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd shall provide notice to the affected client as soon as reasonably possible upon learning of the necessity to impose a surcharge in accordance with this section.Upon receiving notification from Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. the affected client(s) may elect to either: (i) cancel the applicable tour booking without incurring any penalty; or
(ii) accept the change in price. The client must notify Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. of their election within 14 days of receipt of notice of the increase, or they shall have been deemed to have accepted the price change and have accepted liability for payment of the increase. From time to time Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd may offer reduced pricing on selected tours. The reduced pricing applies strictly to new bookings. Bookings that have already been confirmed (which for these purposes shall mean bookings in respect of which payment of at least a deposit has been received by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd) are not entitled to the reduced pricing.

8). GUARANTEED DEPARTURES & CANCELLATION OF A TOUR BY ULTIMATE WILD SAFARIS LTD
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd guarantees all scheduled group tour departures that have been booked by a client shall depart as scheduled (subject to reasonable itinerary changes). Brochures and other printed materials displaying tour information and departure dates are subject to change, and such dates are excluded from this guarantee. A departure shall become guaranteed once at least one client has a confirmed booking. This guarantee is not applicable in Force Majeure situations.
If a tour is canceled by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd before the agreed date of departure for reasons not arising from Force Majeure or the fault or negligence of or within the reasonable control of the client, the client shall have the choice of: (i). accepting from Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd a substitute tour product of equivalent or superior value, where such substitute is reasonably available; or
(ii). accepting from Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd a substitute tour of lower value if no tour of equivalent or superior value is reasonably available, and to recover from Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd the difference in price between the price of the tour originally purchased and that of the substitute tour; or (iii). accepting from Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd a full refund of all monies paid for the canceled tour.
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not responsible for any incidental expenses or consequential losses that the client may have incurred as a result of the canceled booking such as visas, vaccinations, non-refundable flights or rail, nonrefundable car parking or other fees, loss of earnings, or loss of enjoyment, etc. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd reserves the right to issue a full refund in lieu of the choices above, in its sole discretion. Where after departure a significant element of the tours as described cannot be provided, Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd will make suitable alternative arrangements for the continuation of the tours.
If it is not possible to provide a suitable alternative or the client reasonably rejects any suitable alternatives, Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd will provide the client with a refund of unused tour products or tour product portions.

9). CANCELLATION OF A TOUR BY THE CLIENT
If the client is prevented through reasons completely beyond such client’s control from proceeding with a tour as booked the client may, if possible, transfer his/her tour booking to a person who satisfies all the conditions applicable to the tour, provided that the client gives notice to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd of the client’s intention to transfer no less than 14 days before the date when the tour departure is due to take place. Where such a transfer is made, the transferring client and the transferee client shall be jointly and severally liable to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd for payment of the price of the tour (or, if part of the price has been paid, for payment of the balance) and for any additional costs arising from such transfer. For private tours, Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd can also reserve the tour for a client should they decide to postpone the tour to a later date.
The client however will be responsible for paying cancellation fees as per the cancellation policy and also for any unforeseen extra costs which arise until the client does the tour at a later date (i.e. – accommodation costs, transportation costs, fuel costs, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as third party supplier costs, currency and exchange fluctuations, park fees, increases in taxes, or government action which impacts the price of the applicable tours).

10). CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES
The client acknowledges by booking a tour with Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd that the nature of adventure travel, especially in Africa, requires considerable flexibility and acknowledges that they will permit reasonable alterations to the tour and/or itinerary by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. The client acknowledges their understanding that the route, schedules, timings, accommodations, itineraries, amenities and mode of transport may be subject to change without prior notice due to circumstances or events, which may include sickness or mechanical breakdown, incidents in the location where the tour will be operated, flight cancellations, strikes, events emanating from political disputes, entry or border difficulties, extreme weather and other unpredictable or unforeseeable circumstances which are beyond the reasonable control of Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd and that Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not liable to any client for such changes or amendments.
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd shall not be liable to pay any discounts or refunds for missed or unused services which were missed or unused by the client due to no fault of Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd, its suppliers, or representatives, which shall include any termination of the client’s participation in the tour due to the client’s own fault, negligence or breach of these Terms and Conditions. Although Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd will strive to ensure that the tour you have booked goes as planned, we do not guarantee that we will abide by the agreed tour itinerary and we, therefore, reserve the right to amend the tour itinerary where doing so may be necessary or advantageous. We will strive to notify you of any changes prior to the tour departure. However, Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not obligated to do so, nor shall not be liable to pay any refunds that may be claimed to result from such changes.
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not in control of the management of the accommodation providers we use on our tours. Therefore, in some circumstances, we may be notified by our accommodation providers that our reserved accommodation is no longer available, due to reasons that are beyond our control and not the fault or negligence of Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. In such circumstances, we will provide alternative accommodation of at least the same standard or higher standard. Where it may be absolutely necessary to amend the tour itinerary during the tour, the tour guide will arrange the best available alternative. The decision to do so will rest on the tour guide and his/her decision is final. This is mainly applicable but not limited to mountain climbing products where the guide believes the client is not able to continue with the climb due to illness, injury, extreme weather, or other factors beyond the guide’s control.

11). RISK
The client acknowledges that the nature of our tour products is adventurous and may involve a significant amount of risk to clients’ health and/or safety. There are dangers inherent to adventure travel generally and the client acknowledges they have considered such risks to health and safety and are willing to assume it to the full extent legally possible, by confirming their booking of this tour.

The client hereby assumes all such risk and does hereby release Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd from all claims and causes of action arising from any losses, damages or injuries or death resulting from these risks inherent in travel, including adventure travel specifically, visiting wild and remote areas, and participating in adventurous activities such as those included in the tour itineraries.

Standards of hygiene, accommodation, and transport in some areas where the tours take place are often lower than comparable standards than what the client may reasonably expect in their home country or region. The client acknowledges that the degree and nature of personal risk involved depends on the nature of the tour booked or the location(s) in which such a tour is to operate, and that there may be a significant degree of personal risk involved in travel on the tour, particularly if such a tour involves physical activities, travel to remote locations, high altitude activities or other high-risk activities, or travel areas of Africa with under-developed infrastructure.

The client acknowledges they have considered the potential risks, dangers and challenges in light of their own personal capabilities and needs, and expressly assumes the risks attendant to travel under such conditions. The client acknowledges and agrees that Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd will provide, to the best of its ability, information or guidance to the client with respect to local customs, weather conditions, specific safety concerns, physical challenges or laws in effect in any locations where tours are operated, but will not be liable if the client does not act according to the information provided.

The client must at all times strictly comply with all applicable laws and regulations of the country and regions visited on the applicable tour. Should the client fail to comply with the above or commit any illegal act when on the tour or, if in the opinion of the Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd (acting reasonably), the client’s behavior is causing or is likely to cause danger, distress or material annoyance to others, Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd may terminate that client’s travel arrangements on any tour immediately without any liability on Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd part and the client will not be entitled to any refund for unused or missed services or costs incurred resulting from the termination of the travel arrangements, including, without limitation, return travel, accommodations, meals, and/or incidentals.

Clients agree that they are responsible for any costs incurred by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd, as a result of damage, destruction, theft, or excess cleaning fees caused or occasioned by the client while on tour. Clients agree to immediately report any pre-existing damage of this kind to staff of the accommodation, transportation service, or facility (as appropriate) and/or an Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd representative as soon as possible upon discovery by the client.

Client agrees to take all prudent measures in relation to their own safety while on any Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd tour, including, but not limited to, the proper use of safety devices such as seatbelts, harnesses, and helmets, and obeying all posted signs and warnings in relation to client health and safety. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd, nor its Third Party Suppliers shall not be liable for any failure on the client’s part to comply safety instructions or recommendations of Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd or its Third Party Suppliers.

12). COMPLAINTS
Client agrees to bring any complaints regarding a tour to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd as soon as possible in order to provide Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd with the opportunity to address such complaint properly. Client agrees to inform the head guide or other designated Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd representative at the earliest opportunity. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd assumes no liability for complaints that are not properly brought to the attention of Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd with sufficient notice for Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd to resolve or attempt to resolve any client complaints. Any complaint made after the completion of a tour must be received in writing by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd within 30 days of the end of the tour in question.

13). THIRD PARTY SUPPLIERS
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd makes arrangements with accommodation providers, activity providers, airlines, coach companies, transfer operators, shore excursion operators, tour and local guides, and other independent parties (“Third Party Suppliers”) to provide you with the travel services and other services you purchase or which form the component parts of your product Tour. Third Party Suppliers may also engage the services of local operators and/or sub-contractors for the provision of travel services that form part of the tour(s). Although Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd takes all reasonable care in selecting Third Party Suppliers, Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is unable to control Third Party Suppliers and do not supervise Third Party Suppliers and therefore cannot be responsible for their acts or omissions.
The travel services and other services provided are subject to the conditions imposed by these suppliers and their liability is limited by their tariffs, conditions of carriage, tickets, and vouchers and international conventions and agreements that govern the provision of their services. These may limit or exclude the liability of the supplier. Client acknowledges that Third Party Suppliers operate in compliance with the applicable laws of that particular country visited and Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd does not warrant that any Third Party Supplier is in compliance with the laws of the client’s country of residence, or any other jurisdiction. To the fullest extent permissible by law, Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not liable and will not assume responsibility for any claims, losses, damages, costs or expenses arising out of inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, upset, disappointment, distress or frustration, whether physical or mental, resulting from the act or omission of any party other than Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd and its employees. For clarity, neither Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd nor any carrier is liable for the acts or omissions, whether negligent or otherwise, of Third Party Suppliers or any independent contractors.

14. LIABILITY
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd is not responsible for any damages, expenses, losses, or claims which are attributable to the fault of any client, the unforeseeable or unavoidable act or omission of a third party unconnected with the provision of any services that form any part of the tours, or a force majeure event. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd shall have no liability for loss, theft of or damage to baggage or personal effects of Clients while participating in a tour. Clients should not leave personal belongings unattended in any public areas, on board any mode of transportation, or elsewhere, and are responsible at all times for their own effects and belongings. Ultimate Safaris Ltd cannot accept responsibility for and in no event shall be liable for loss or damage of valuables or other articles left in or on facilities used by Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd such as hotels, homestays, vessels, expedition vehicles, or any other mode of transportation.
In the event that any loss, death, injury or illness is caused by the negligent acts and/or omissions of Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd or of the third-party suppliers of any services which form part of the Contract Then Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd limits its liability, where applicable by all applicable International Conventions.

15. FORCE MAJEURE
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd shall not be liable in any way to the client for death, bodily injury, illness, damage, delay or other loss or detriment to person or property, or financial costs both direct and indirect incurred, or for Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd failure to commence, perform and/ or complete any duty owed to the client if such death, delay, bodily injury (including emotional distress or injury), illness, damage or other loss or detriment to person or property is caused by Act of God, war or warlike operations, mechanical breakdowns, terrorist activities or threat thereof, civil commotions, labor difficulties, interference by authorities, political disturbance, howsoever and where so ever any of the same may arise or be caused, riot, insurrection and government restraint, fire, extreme weather or any other cause whatsoever beyond the reasonable control of Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd; or an event which Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd or the supplier of services, even with all due care, could not foresee.

16). IMAGES AND MARKETING
The client agrees that while participating in any Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd tour, images, photos or videos may be taken by other clients and/or Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd representatives or Guides that may contain or feature the client in part or in whole. The client acknowledges that they consent to any such images, photos and videos being taken and grants a perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide, irrevocable license to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd, its affiliates and assigns, to reproduce for any purpose whatsoever (including marketing and promotions), in any medium whatsoever, whether currently known or hereinafter devised, without any further obligation to the client or compensation payable to the client.

17. AMENDMENTS
Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd reserves the right to update and/or alter these Terms and Conditions at any time and shall post the amended Terms and Conditions on the Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd Website. Any such amendment shall take effect 10 days following their posting to the Website. The latest Terms, as amended, may be accessed any time on the Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd website, or will be sent to clients upon their written request to Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd. Clients shall be deemed to have accepted any amendments to these Terms and Conditions on the date that is 10 days after their posting on the Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd website. Ultimate Wild Safaris Ltd recommends that all clients refer to the Terms and Conditions prior to their travel to familiarize themselves with the most up-to-date version of the Terms and Conditions.

FIVE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT D.R CONGO!

1

Summary of Africa’s wildlife, Congo is known as a favorite home for the gorillas for both the lowland and mountain gorillas.

2

Climb mountain Nyiragongo, an active volcano with an elevation of 3470m in the Virunga Mountain associated with the Albertine rift.

3

Don’t miss out the history at Brazzaville. It is okay to say that a must see place in Congo is its capital-Brazzaville. This old French city exudes history, as it is reminiscent of the old French colonial era.

4

If you’re on a tight schedule and interested to experience the magical country to its fullest, take a ride on the la Gazelle, a long distance passenger train operated by the Congo-ocean railway.

5

An expedition to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, is discovering the undiscovered ,a protected area very rich in flora and fauna near Bukavu town in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, near the western bank of lake Kivu and Rwandan Border.