Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo? If you're planning to go to Congo Basin, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Based on the climate and weather in Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Congo Basin, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo by month

January

January in this region is hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

Traveling to Congo Basin in February, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

March

March for Congo Basin is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in this region can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

If you go to Congo Basin in May, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

Traveling to Congo Basin in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

August is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

September in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Take care to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

October

October is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you are traveling to Congo Basin in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

December in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Congo Basin may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

What to do in Congo Basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Congo Basin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is an ecological marvel and an immense treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders. The Congo River, the world’s second-longest and deepest river, flows through this region, teeming with an array of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to the Congo Basin.

If you're planning a trip to this remarkable region of Africa, here are the top tourist attractions that should be on your list.

Virunga National Park:

The Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's last remaining habitats of mountain gorillas. This park, situated in the Eastern part of DRC, is home to more than 800 gorillas, as well as a variety of other primates, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. In addition to trekking to see gorillas, visitors can also enjoy hiking, mountain climbing, and savanna safaris.

Brazzaville:

Brazzaville is the capital city of the Republic of the Congo and one of the most important cultural centers in Central Africa. The city boasts a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene that is the perfect introduction to Congo's diverse heritage. Attractions here include the Congo River port, the Basilique Sainte Anne, and the Palais du Peuple, among others.

The Congo River:

The Congo River is the world's second-longest river and serves as the lifeline of the many communities that inhabit the basin. Besides being a life force, the river also a great source of entertainment for tourists. Take a boat ride down the river to experience the natural beauty of the basin, or book a cruise that will take you farther afield.

Garamba National Park:

Garamba National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage site and well know of its large population of elephants as well as other species such as buffalos, giraffes, and lions. Visitors can hike the park's trails, go on safari drives, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Lola Ya Bonobo:

If you love primates or are interested in conservation efforts in the Congo, Lola ya Bonobo is the place to be. This sanctuary is a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned bonobos located just outside of Kinshasa. Visitors can get up close with these incredibly intelligent primates and learn about the efforts to protect them.

In conclusion, the Congo Basin is an unspoiled region with an abundance of attractions for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. The above are just a few of the must-visit destinations in this beautiful country, and you're sure to have an unforgettable journey. So, pack your bags and head to the Congo Basin for an experience like no other.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Burabay National Park, Kazakhstan, Maldives, Maldives, Clisson, France, Middletown, New Jersey, United States of America, Houay Xai, Laos, Geneva, Alabama, United States of America, Natividade, Tocantins, Brazil, Aurora, Oregon, United States of America, Shiraishi Island, Japan, Pilar, Paraguay, and Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.