Western DRC, Democratic Republic of the Congo: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Western DRC, Democratic Republic of the Congo? If you're planning to go to Western DRC, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Western DRC
- Important essentials for Western DRC
- Activities for Western DRC
- Western DRC in January: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in February: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in March: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in April: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in May: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in June: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in July: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in August: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in September: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in October: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in November: weather and what to pack
- Western DRC in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Western DRC, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Based on the climate and weather in Western DRC, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Western DRC, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Western DRC, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Western DRC, Democratic Republic of the Congo by month
January
Traveling to Western DRC in January, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful 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 Western DRC may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage nowadays, 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.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
February
February in Western DRC is 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
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
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
Safety + Security
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 Western DRC may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Check that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
March
March is consistently 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
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country 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 Western DRC 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel 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
What we like is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
April
April here 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
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
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
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful 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 Western DRC 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Take care to get the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like 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. Avoid penalties with this
May
If you go to Western DRC in May, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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 Western DRC may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel 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
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices 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 choose the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices 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
June
Traveling to Western DRC in June, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, 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 Western DRC may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
July
If you go to Western DRC in July, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can 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 Western DRC 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Check that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
August
August in Western DRC very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also removes contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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 Western DRC 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 airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel 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 pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Check that you get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
September for Western DRC is hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSkirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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 Western DRC 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel 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. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
If you go to Western DRC in October, you will notice that it is pretty 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
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
thisSkirts
Sunglasses
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 Western DRC 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you get the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
November
If you go to Western DRC in November, you will notice that it is 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
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
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 Western DRC 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 things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Check that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available 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 work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties 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
An excellent option is this one
December
Traveling to Western DRC in December, you will notice that it is extremely warm. 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
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Sunglasses
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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 Western DRC 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel 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 pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
What to do in Western DRC, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Western DRC, Democratic Republic of Congo might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a vacation, but it is a hidden gem full of natural wonders and cultural treasures. This region is home to some of the most incredible tourist attractions in Africa.
1. Virunga National Park:
Virunga National Park is located in the eastern part of the DRC, but it certainly deserves a mention as one of the top tourist attractions in the Western region. This park is home to the endangered mountain gorilla, and tourists can take a guided tour to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
2. Zongo Falls:
Zongo Falls is located in the Equateur Province and is a must-see for anyone visiting Western DRC. The falls are over 120 meters high, and tourists can take a boat from Mbandaka to reach the site. The experience of watching the water cascading over the cliffs is truly unforgettable.
3. Lola Ya Bonobo:
Lola Ya Bonobo is a sanctuary for orphaned bonobos, which are often referred to as the "hippie" apes due to their peaceful nature. The sanctuary is located in Kinshasa, the capital city of DRC, and tourists can witness these playful primates in their natural surroundings.
4. Livingstone Falls:
Livingstone Falls is a series of rapids and waterfalls that stretches over 220 miles along the Congo River. It is a spectacular sight to see, with water cascading over the rocks creating a beautiful rainbow effect. The falls are located in the province of Bas-Congo and are easily accessible from Kinshasa or Pointe-Noire in neighboring Congo-Brazzaville.
5. Kisantu Botanic Garden:
Kisantu Botanic Garden is the second-largest botanical garden in Africa, covering an area of 135 hectares. The garden is located in the Bas-Congo Province and is home to over 4,000 plant species. A visit here is a great experience, especially for nature lovers and conservationists.
6. Matadi Bridge:
Matadi Bridge is a masterpiece of colonial-era engineering and design. The bridge spans over the Congo River, connecting the city of Kinshasa to coastal towns. It was built in the early 1900s and was once considered an engineering marvel. Today, it is still a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit site if you're passing through Kinshasa.
In conclusion, Western DRC has something for everyone, from natural wonders to cultural treasures. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff or just looking for an adventure, the region's tourist attractions are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So next time you're planning a vacation, consider traveling to Western DRC to experience these amazing sites.
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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