Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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Ready to pack for Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo? If you're planning to go to Okapi Wildlife Reserve, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Okapi Wildlife Reserve
- Important essentials for Okapi Wildlife Reserve
- Activities for Okapi Wildlife Reserve
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in January: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in February: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in March: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in April: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in May: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in June: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in July: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in August: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in September: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in October: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in November: weather and what to pack
- Okapi Wildlife Reserve in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Based on the climate and weather in Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Okapi Wildlife Reserve, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo by month
January
If you go to Okapi Wildlife Reserve in January, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve 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.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Check that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
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
February in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 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
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
thisBug repellent
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve 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 belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Take care to choose the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
March
March is extremely warm. 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
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve 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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Check that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
April
April is extremely warm. 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
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve 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 belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
May
Traveling to Okapi Wildlife Reserve in May, 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 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Skirts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can 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 Okapi Wildlife Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
June in this region is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve 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 constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
If you are traveling to Okapi Wildlife Reserve in July, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of 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 Okapi Wildlife Reserve 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.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
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 surcharges with this
August
August here is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags 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 Okapi Wildlife Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
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 pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you pick the right kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
September
If you go to Okapi Wildlife Reserve in September, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be careful to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
October
Traveling to Okapi Wildlife Reserve in October, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
November
November in this region 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
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Light skirts
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
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. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
December
December here is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Okapi Wildlife Reserve 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 belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Democratic Republic of the Congo has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
What to do in Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Nestled in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo is the unique and captivating Okapi Wildlife Reserve. Spanning over 13,700 square kilometers, the region is home to an impressive array of wildlife species, including the elusive Okapi, one of the rarest mammals on earth. The reserve boasts a diverse landscape, with lush rainforests, savannahs, rivers, and waterfalls. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve.
1. The Okapi Center: The Okapi Center is a fantastic place to start your adventure in the reserve. The center provides visitors with comprehensive information on the Okapi, from its unique physical characteristics to its cultural significance. It also has a museum that showcases traditional lifestyles and crafts of the local communities.
2. The Okapi Wildlife Sanctuary: The Okapi Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit site in the reserve, offering a chance to see the elusive Okapi in its natural habitat. Visitors can also take guided tours around the sanctuary, where they can learn more about ongoing conservation efforts to protect the species.
3. Virunga National Park: The Okapi Wildlife Reserve shares borders with the famous Virunga National Park, making it an excellent place for visitors to explore some of the park's most stunning natural features. The park is famous for its rich volcanic landscapes, primates, and exceptional birdlife, including the African Harrier-hawk and Ruwenzori Turaco.
4. Epulu Station: The Epulu Station, located in the central part of the reserve, is an impressive research center dedicated to Okapi conservation. Visitors can tour the facility and see the work that goes into preserving one of the world's rarest and amazing species.
5. Ituri Forest: The Ituri Forest, located in the eastern part of the reserve, is a vast expanse of dense tropical rainforest that is home to an abundance of wildlife. The forest is an ideal place to go hiking, nature walks, or bird watching, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the reserve.
6. Congo River: The Congo River, the second-largest river in Africa, cuts across the western part of the reserve before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take boat trips along the river, which provides the perfect opportunity to explore its banks and watch the abundant birdlife and hippos in the area.
In conclusion, Okapi Wildlife Reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that offers exceptional wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultural experiences. A visit to the reserve promises to be an unforgettable experience that connects visitors with the beauty and majesty of the African wilderness.

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.
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