DR Congo · Congo Basin
Explore the Mai-Ndombe Wetlands
Journey through remote lakes, flooded forests and traditional waterside communities in one of the Congo Basin's most extraordinary wetland landscapes.
Journey into the Living Waters of the Congo Basin
Discover one of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's most remarkable natural landscapes: the Mai-Ndombe Wetlands, a vast world of lakes, flooded forests, rivers, marshes and traditional communities shaped by water.
Located within the greater Congo Basin, this remote region offers travellers an opportunity to experience nature far beyond conventional tourism routes. Its calm waterways, forested shorelines and seasonal floodplains create an extraordinary environment for wildlife, local livelihoods and cultural traditions.
The wider Ngiri-Tumba-Maindombe wetland complex is internationally recognised under the Convention on Wetlands and is among the world's largest Wetlands of International Importance.
An Immersive Wetland Adventure
A journey through Mai-Ndombe may include guided travel by traditional canoe or motorised boat, exploration of remote lakes and river channels, visits to fishing communities, forest walks and opportunities to observe birds and other wildlife. Every itinerary is designed around local conditions — accessibility, weather, water levels and community authorisation.
- Guided canoe and boat excursions
- Wetland and flooded-forest exploration
- Birdwatching and nature photography
- Sunrise and sunset experiences on the water
- Visits to traditional lakeside communities
- Local fishing and canoe culture
- Conservation and community encounters
- Private expeditions for researchers, photographers and adventurous travellers
Travel with Purpose
Mai-Ndombe is not a mass-tourism destination. It is a sensitive natural and cultural landscape where responsible travel is essential.
DRCTOURISM works to develop carefully managed experiences that respect local communities, protect fragile ecosystems and create economic opportunities for local guides, boat operators, hosts and conservation partners.
Access may require advance coordination, local permissions and specialised transport. For this reason, every request is reviewed before an itinerary is confirmed.
Remote Access
Coordinated boat and air transport arranged on request.
Community-Led
Local guides, hosts and boat operators at the centre.
Bespoke Itinerary
Every route designed around water levels and permissions.
Plan Your Mai-Ndombe Expedition
Tell us your preferred travel dates, group size, interests and expected level of comfort. Our team will assess access conditions and prepare a personalised proposal covering transportation, accommodation, guides, activities, safety arrangements and local logistics.
Mai-Ndombe Wetlands expeditions are organised on request and are subject to seasonal accessibility, local authorisations, transport availability and safety assessments. Submitting an application does not constitute a confirmed booking. A member of the DRCTOURISM team will contact you after reviewing your request.