DRC Tourism
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    Wetlands & Ramsar Sites of the DRC

    NationalJune-September
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    Quick Answer

    The DRC contains Africa's largest Ramsar wetland site (Ngiri-Tumba-Maindombe, 65,000 km²). These protected wetlands include flooded forests, lakes, and river systems supporting exceptional biodiversity and traditional fishing communities.

    DRC's Ramsar Wetlands — A Global Climate Asset

    The Cuvette Centrale peatlands of the Congo Basin store an estimated 30 gigatonnes of carbon, making them one of the most important climate reservoirs on Earth. Several are protected under the Ramsar Convention.

    Key Sites to Visit

    Explore Lake Mai-Ndombe, the flooded forests around Mbandaka, and the southern wetlands of Upemba National Park. Read our Congo Basin & climate brief for the science.

    Plan an Ethical Visit

    See how ecotourism funds conservation, browse wetland experiences, or start in the trip planner.

    Highlights

    Africa's largest Ramsar site
    Flooded forests
    Exceptional birding
    Traditional communities
    Conservation areas

    Activities

    Boat safaris
    Birdwatching
    Community visits
    Photography

    Nearby Destinations

    mai ndombe wetlandslake tumba

    Related Experiences

    wetlands safari

    Themes

    wetland
    conservation
    birding

    Plan Your Visit

    Best TimeJune-September
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    Continue exploring the Democratic Republic of Congo

    The Congo River, Lake Kivu, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Mai-Ndombe and the Atlantic coast at Muanda make the DRC one of Africa's greatest water-based travel destinations. Continue exploring below.

    Plan your DRC tripAll experiencesAll destinationsNational parksWildlife of the DRCCulture & heritageIslands & riversTravel planning guidesDRC travel FAQKinshasa city guideVirunga National ParkKahuzi-Biega National ParkSalonga National ParkGaramba National ParkUpemba National ParkGorilla trekkingBonobo sanctuaryCongo River expeditionsIs the DRC safe?Travel blogAccredited operators & partnersMedia & press kit

    Common questions travellers ask about the DRC

    Is the Democratic Republic of Congo safe to visit?

    Yes — most tourism corridors in the DRC (Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Virunga, Kahuzi-Biega, Lola ya Bonobo, Kongo Central coast, Upemba, Garamba) are routinely visited safely when travelling with a licensed operator. The DRC is the size of Western Europe, so security conditions vary dramatically by region — avoid eastern conflict pockets outside designated park corridors and check current advisories.

    How much does gorilla trekking cost in the DRC (Congo)?

    Mountain gorilla permits in Virunga National Park start around €415 per person. Grauer's (eastern lowland) gorilla trekking in Kahuzi-Biega starts around €370. Multi-day packages with transfers, ranger fees and lodging typically range from €1,100 to €3,200 per person.

    Do I need a visa to visit the DRC?

    Most travellers need a tourist visa, obtained in advance from a DRC embassy or via an authorised operator with a letter of invitation. A short-stay tourist e-visa is available for many nationalities.

    When is the best time to travel to DR Congo?

    The dry seasons — June to September and December to February — are ideal for gorilla trekking, volcano hikes and safari travel. Congo River and rainforest experiences are rewarding year-round.

    Prefer a human? Plan your trip, apply for a private consultation, or contact our team. For press and partnerships, see our media kit and accredited partners directory.