DRC Tourist Attractions in 2026: 5 Locations You Should Look Out For

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been home to many individuals from diverse backgrounds. This has allowed plenty of attractions and places of interest to be created solely to evoke a sense of wonder for all travellers who come to the DRC to experience the raw, unfiltered wilderness and the beautiful locations scattered across the country.

The destinations listed below are considered the best to visit in 2026, and your time will not be wasted.

1.) Expeditions Through the Congo River

The Congo River is known as the life source of the DRC, leading to numerous important expeditions by both local and government efforts to gain more insight into how the river nourishes, sustains, and supports development for those who rely on it.

By taking a boat ride that provides a first-hand look at what life looks like and how local tribes work and live their daily lives without worrying about much. Some boat trips and rides offer an essential, immersive experience, such as a journey from Kinshasa to Kisagani that may take several days, depending on whether the boat makes any stops along the way.

This attraction is definitely meant for those who prefer a much more open, extended look at the DRC's untamed wilderness and rural lifestyles.

2.) Garamba National Park

The Garamba National Park is touted as the DRC’s oldest national park and one of Africa’s oldest parks. 

It has sprouted a multitude of wildlife species that have been in constant need of protection because specific measures have been ineffective in protecting them from poaching. It is still a very well-known area of interest and visitation for the general public as well as tourists.

Garamba National Park is well known for its age and the numerous animal species it houses. Its numbers grow higher and higher with each passing year, leading to an ecological system that thrives on the serenity of its species and its environment. There have been stringent measures taken to ensure that no more poachers attempt to take away any animals.

3.) Virunga National Park

Being both Africa’s oldest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Virunga National Park is unlike any African attraction. Located near the Eastern Rwandan border, it is popularly known for its Mountain Gorillas and Volcanoes, as well as some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.

Some of the most popular activities within Virunga National Park are its eponymous Gorilla Trekking trips, which offer travellers and tourists an inside look at how these gentle giants operate. Be respectful, keep your distance, and always follow your guide's instructions to the letter, as Mountain Gorillas can be highly territorial.

You can also take a hiking trip to the top of Mount Nyiragongo, which is home to one of the most extensive lava lakes not only in Africa, but in the world. Be wary of the intense heat that continuously emanates from the lake.

Travellers can also have the opportunity to birdwatch some of the most beautiful, unique, and exotic birds on the planet, take some of the most visually stunning wildlife shots, and photograph the landscape as well.

4.) Boyoma (Stanley) Falls

Rivers are plentiful in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and are a major tourist attraction in the country. These rivers lead to some of the most stunning waterfalls on the African Continent, and one of these is the Boyoma Falls, also known as the Stanley Falls.

The interesting aspect that makes the Boyoma waterfalls stand out from the rest is that they do not consist of just one waterfall, but many, stretching nearly 100 kilometres in diameter and are stated to be one of the most impressive waterfalls in the entire world, and is a sight to behold for both travellers and locals alike.

This should be best experienced on a regional tour, which showcases some of the best regional architecture and ruins, as well as the splendid wildlife that accompanies it, making the final experience that much more effective and inspiring.

5.) Kinshasa

Last but certainly not least, we have the capital city of the DRC, Kinshasa, which is a massive mix of everyday chaos and places complete with colour and character, with a large variety of local inhabitants.

It has it all, from some of the most widespread and colourful markets in the country to the musical beats that set a happy, cheerful mood in the city and the ever-diverse culture of the Congolese people, creating a haven for individuals who admire the DRC.

The DRC is home to a host of national monuments, including the National Museum of Congo, which houses some of the most intricately detailed artefacts in the country, and the Marche Central, a well-known and lively market, primarily known for its exquisite handcrafted materials and gifts, all of which come at remarkably low prices.

Prepare for the Tour!

Alt: person packing a suitcase for a vacation

Preparing for and planning the tour to the DRC requires both an extremely flexible schedule and a solid plan of action. Having both on your side can lead to some of the most unforgettable memories you may ever encounter in the African Continent. First and foremost, having a pre-approved DRC eVisa on hand ensures safe, easy entry into the country.

Be sure to have a tight grip on travel advisories and where and where not you are required to go to experience the entirety of what the Democratic Republic of Congo has to offer. For those who sought an adventure like no other, the DRC is an underrated gem you must surely visit!