Democratic Republic of Congo: Safety and Travel Advisory – What to Know About Travel Distance and Safety

Risk Level: Democratic Republic of Congo – Avoid All Travel

Avoid all travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to the extremely fragile and dangerous security situation, ongoing conflicts, high levels of violent crime, and widespread civil unrest.

If you are currently in the DRC, you should leave immediately if it is safe to do so using commercial transportation options. The Canadian government’s ability to provide consular assistance within the Democratic Republic of Congo is severely limited due to the dangerous conditions.

Safety and Security Situation in the DRC: A Deep Dive

The security landscape in the DRC is highly unstable and unpredictable throughout the entire country. Escalating tensions and active conflict zones make travel exceptionally risky.

Intense fighting persists between government forces and numerous rebel groups, particularly in the eastern regions of the DRC. Rebel factions have previously seized control of major towns like Goma and Bukavu, including vital infrastructure such as Kavumu airport.

Many other cities, especially in the eastern DRC, face significant security risks.

Kinshasa and other urban centers have experienced violent demonstrations and civil unrest, which can erupt with little to no warning. These events can pose a direct threat to foreign nationals.

Expect potential temporary roadblocks and sudden road closures, including routes leading to airports, further complicating travel logistics and increasing distance traveled unpredictability.

Critical Security Breakdown in Eastern DRC:

• Currently, all flights to and from Goma and Kavumu (Bukavu) international airports are suspended, effectively cutting off air travel.
• Border crossings in the east are prone to closure without any prior notification.

Kinshasa Security Concerns:

• Several airlines have suspended flights in and out of Kinshasa due to security risks.
• Land and water border crossings around Kinshasa may also close with no warning.

Immediate Actions if You Are in an Affected Area:

• Seek immediate shelter and ensure you have sufficient emergency supplies, including food and potable water, until safe evacuation can be arranged.
• Register or update your contact information with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive critical updates and assistance.
• Exercise extreme vigilance and caution at all times, regardless of location.
• Maintain preparedness to evacuate at very short notice.

For urgent assistance, contact the Embassy of Canada in Kinshasa or Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

Demonstrations and Civil Unrest

Demonstrations are a frequent occurrence, especially in Kinshasa. Even initially peaceful protests can rapidly turn violent without warning, causing significant disruptions to traffic flow and public transportation.

• Avoid all areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
• Strictly adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
• Continuously monitor local media for up-to-the-minute information regarding ongoing demonstrations.

Learn more about risks associated with mass gatherings

Eastern DRC: A Region of Extreme Risk

The eastern DRC remains highly volatile due to the continuous presence and frequent clashes involving over 120 distinct armed groups. This region is exceptionally dangerous and travel is strongly discouraged.

The most severely affected provinces include:

• Maniema
• North Kivu
• South Kivu
• Tanganyika
• Bas-Uélé
• Haut-Uélé
• Ituri

Crime is rampant throughout these eastern provinces, and human rights violations are widely reported. The distance traveled in these areas should be minimized due to extreme safety risks.

State of Siege in North Kivu and Ituri

Since 2021, the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri have been placed under a state of military siege, meaning these provinces are under direct military administration indefinitely. This reflects the severity of the security crisis.

North Kivu and South Kivu Provinces: Active Conflict Zones

Violent clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group persist around Goma in North Kivu.

Despite ongoing peace agreements and the presence of UN peacekeeping forces (MONUSCO), armed conflict continues in areas outside of major provincial capitals. Armed groups perpetrate acts of violence against civilians, including murder, kidnapping, armed assault, and sexual violence, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis and mass displacement.

Active military operations are ongoing near:

• Virunga National Park
• Rutshuru
• Rumangabo
• The border region with Uganda and Rwanda

Military operations can further destabilize security in areas outside of Goma and Bukavu. Certain locations are particularly dangerous and should be avoided entirely:

North Kivu Danger Zones:

• Beni
• Masisi
• Rutshuru
• Walikale

South Kivu Danger Zones:

• Kabare
• Shabunda

Avoid all travel to North and South Kivu provinces. If you disregard this advisory and choose to travel, you must:

• Continuously reassess the security situation and justify your presence in the area.
• Pay close attention to information provided by Congolese authorities and MONUSCO to mitigate risks.
• Avoid public transportation at all costs.
• Prepare for significant disruptions to local businesses and essential services, including airport operations.

Tanganyika Province: Ethnic Conflict

Tanganyika Province, particularly the Manono Territory, is experiencing ongoing ethnic conflict between Pygmy and Luba groups, with periodic re-engagement of the Mai-Mai militia. This region is unstable and dangerous.

Ituri Province: Persistent Armed Clashes and Terrorist Threats

Armed clashes are ongoing in Ituri Province. A significant terrorist threat exists in the Beni and Irumu territories, increasing the risk to travelers.

Haut-Lomami Province: High Risk of Violent Crime

Violent crime is a serious concern in Haut Lomami Province. Travelers have been targeted in ambushes, robberies, and kidnappings, highlighting the dangers of distance traveled through this region.

Border Regions: South Sudan, Central African Republic, and Uganda

Border regions with South Sudan, Central African Republic, and Uganda, including Garamba National Park, remain dangerous. Despite operations by Ugandan, Congolese, and South Sudanese forces and the UN, the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) continues to commit violence against civilians, causing casualties and mass displacement.

Border Entry Points: Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda

Entry points along the borders with Burundi, Uganda, and Rwanda should be avoided due to insecurity and disorder. Borders with Burundi and Rwanda can close without notice, impacting travel plans and increasing the distance traveled to find alternative routes.

Kasaï Provinces: Lingering Instability

While currently calm, the Kasaï provinces (Kasaï, Kasaï-Central, and Kasaï-Oriental) have experienced violent armed clashes resulting in thousands of casualties and kidnappings. The situation remains unpredictable.

Mai-Ndombe: Intercommunal Violence

Intercommunal violence has been frequent in Mai-Ndombe Province since June 2022, especially in Kwamouth territory, causing mass displacement and hundreds of deaths. Attacks have spread to neighboring provinces, including northern Kinshasa Province.

Kinshasa: Precautions in the Capital

In Kinshasa, choose accommodation within the Gombe commune, the administrative and commercial center, considered relatively safer.

• Exercise extreme caution outside of the Gombe commune.
• Avoid all travel after dark due to heightened security risks.

Terrorism Threat

A significant terrorism threat exists in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly:

• Beni-Butembo and Goma region in North Kivu
• Vicinity of Boga in Ituri
• Areas bordering Uganda

Terrorist groups are active, vying for control of trafficking routes, mining sites, and agricultural territories.

Attacks targeting civilians and government entities are frequent and further attacks are highly likely.

Potential terrorist targets include:

• Government buildings, including schools

• Places of worship

• Airports and transportation hubs

• Public areas: restaurants, bars, cafes, markets, hotels, and locations frequented by foreigners

• Large-scale events

• Maintain constant awareness of your surroundings in public places.

• Monitor local media for security updates.

• Follow all instructions from local authorities.

High Crime Rates

Crime rates are alarmingly high in the DRC due to widespread poverty and ineffective law enforcement.

Petty Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common throughout the country, including Kinshasa. Theft is frequent:

• On public transportation
• Inside vehicles
• In crowded public areas
• At and around ATMs

During your time in the DRC:

• Secure all personal belongings, including passports and travel documents, at all times.
• Avoid displaying wealth or wearing expensive jewelry.
• Keep car doors locked and windows closed.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables.
• Avoid traveling alone, especially on foot.
• Be extremely cautious when using ATMs, even within hotels.

Violent Crime

Violent crime is prevalent in both urban and rural areas, especially after nightfall. Incidents include:

• Armed robbery
• Muggings
• Sexual assault
• Armed home burglaries
• Car and motorcycle hijackings

During your stay:

• Be constantly aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
• Remain on major highways and avoid parking in unsupervised areas.
• If confronted by attackers, do not resist.

Kidnappings: High Risk

Kidnappings are frequent, particularly in eastern and northeastern provinces. Foreigners are often specifically targeted. Incidents occur mainly in:

• Virunga National Park (North Kivu)
• North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, Maniema, Tanganika, Bas-Uélé, and Haut-Uélé provinces

Express Kidnappings

Express kidnappings targeting foreigners are a serious risk. Victims are typically abducted for short periods in broad daylight and robbed of their possessions.

These attacks are often carried out by small groups impersonating police officers, particularly in the Gombe district of Kinshasa.

If you must travel to the DRC despite extreme risks:

• Maintain vigilance at all times.
• Avoid walking in publicly accessible areas.
• Vary routes and schedules to avoid predictability.
• For long trips, travel only in convoys of at least two vehicles to minimize distance traveled alone.
• If threatened, do not resist.

Curfews: Imposed Without Notice

Curfews can be imposed by authorities without prior warning.

Always comply with all directives issued by local authorities immediately.

Road Safety: Extremely Poor

Road safety is critically poor throughout the DRC. Fatal traffic accidents are frequent.

Road Conditions

Roads are generally poorly maintained and lack adequate lighting across the country.

Many roads become impassable during the rainy season, requiring four-wheel drive vehicles, even in parts of Kinshasa.

The Kinshasa-Matadi highway is paved but extremely dangerous due to:

• Poorly maintained, overloaded vehicles often abandoned on roadsides.
• Insufficient or non-existent lighting.
• Lack of road signage and traffic control.

Driving Habits

Drivers frequently disregard traffic laws, and police enforcement is minimal. Aggressive and reckless driving is common.

If driving in the DRC:

• Always drive defensively.
• Plan journeys meticulously, especially in rural areas, considering distance traveled and road conditions.
• Travel in convoys of at least two vehicles for long distances.
• Avoid all travel after dark.
• Check with local authorities regarding travel authorization requirements within the country.

Official Motorcades

Motorists must pull over to the shoulder when sirens or police indicate an approaching presidential or official motorcade.

• Avoid taking photographs of motorcades.
• Proceed only when signaled by police.

Roadblocks: Frequent

Local authorities may increase roadblocks, especially at night, particularly:

• Gombe commune
• Limete, Ngaba, Kintambo, Ngaliema, Ndjili, and Mont Ngafula
• Around Camp Kokolo

Carry official identification at all times.

Never proceed through a roadblock without stopping, even if it appears unguarded.

Officials may attempt to confiscate identification to solicit bribes. To minimize this, present identification without fully lowering your car window if possible.

Law Enforcement Impersonation

Criminals may impersonate law enforcement officers to extort money.

• If stopped by an officer, request to see official identification.
• Do not enter a vehicle with strangers, even if they claim to be police.

Women’s Safety

Women traveling alone may experience harassment or verbal abuse.

Review advice for women travelers

Tourist Infrastructure: Severely Limited

Tourist facilities are extremely limited in Kinshasa and virtually non-existent outside the capital.

• Plan your trip with this in mind.
• Carry ample supplies of water, food, and fuel.
• Bring a cell phone, charger, and local emergency numbers.

Power Outages: Common and Widespread

Power outages occur frequently and can be nationwide.

Local authorities may implement electricity rationing.

Power outages can disrupt essential services:

• Public transport, including air travel
• Medical services
• Water supply
• Telecommunications
• Banking
• Purchase of essential goods

Not all buildings have backup generators.

• Plan accordingly for power disruptions.
• Maintain emergency supplies of water, food, and fuel.
• Ensure you have a complete emergency kit readily available.

Telecommunications: Unreliable

The telecommunications network is unreliable. Landlines are almost non-existent, and cell phone coverage is often intermittent.

Internet access may be restricted during civil unrest.

• Do not rely on cell phones in emergencies, especially outside major cities.
• Avoid traveling alone.
• Inform someone of your detailed itinerary.

Public Transportation: Unsafe and Unreliable

Public transportation in the DRC is neither reliable nor safe.

Car rentals with or without drivers are available through rental companies and travel agencies.

If traveling to Kinshasa, arrange for airport pickup.

Avoid public transportation, including taxis, especially after dark.

Buses

Bus routes are poorly marked, and stops are badly located. Buses are often overloaded and in poor condition, leading to frequent accidents.

Use only tour operators offering direct routes from your starting point.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

Many taxis are unmarked and do not meet safety or mechanical standards. Some ride-sharing apps operate in Kinshasa.

If you must take a taxi:

• Use officially marked, reliable taxi companies recommended by your hotel.
• Never share taxis with strangers.
• Utilize recommended car apps in Kinshasa.

Trains

Rail service is limited and unsafe, with frequent accidents. Poor track conditions and breakdowns cause delays. Trains are overcrowded and prone to theft.

Ferries

Ferries operate in many areas, but most are unsafe, with frequent accidents.

If you must use a ferry:

• Use only reputable companies.
• Confirm departure times before arriving at the port.
• Ensure adequate safety equipment is available onboard.
• Do not board overloaded or unseaworthy vessels.

Piracy Risk

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships are a risk in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau

Air Travel Safety

The Government of Canada does not assess the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and Exit Requirements for the DRC

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. The Canadian government cannot intervene if you are denied entry or exit.

Information on this page is from Congolese authorities but can change at any time. Verify with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport Requirements

Passport requirements depend on passport type.

Check with your transportation provider for passport validity rules, which may be stricter than DRC entry rules.

Regular Canadian Passport

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your expected departure date from the DRC.

Passport for Official Travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel information

Passports with “X” Gender Identifier

While Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, entry and transit through other countries cannot be guaranteed. Restrictions may apply in countries not recognizing the “X” identifier. Check with the nearest foreign representative of your destination before traveling.

Other Travel Documents

Different entry rules may apply for temporary or emergency travel documents. Check with the closest foreign representative of your destination before traveling.

Useful Links

Visa Requirements

• Tourist visa: Required
• Business visa: Required
• Student visa: Required (students must initially obtain a tourist visa)
• Transit visa: Required

Canadians must obtain a visa from the DRC embassy in Ottawa before traveling.

Visas cannot be obtained at ports of entry or at DRC embassies outside your country of residence.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Port of Entry Difficulties

Travelers to the DRC commonly face difficulties at airports and other entry points.

Arrivals at N’Djili International Airport in Kinshasa can be chaotic. Travelers may be temporarily detained and asked to pay unofficial “special fees” by security and immigration officers.

Departure Tax (Go Pass)

All departing air passengers must pay an airport infrastructure development tax (IDEF) of US$58 (subject to change). Proof of IDEF payment (“Go Pass”) is required for boarding. Obtain this document at designated bank counters, institutions, or airports. The Go Pass meaning is proof of payment for this tax, essential for departure and reflecting a mandatory fee impacting the overall distance traveled cost.

Crossing to Brazzaville

To cross the Congo River from Kinshasa to Brazzaville, you need an entry visa issued by the Embassy of the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville).

Children and Travel

Information on traveling with children.

Yellow Fever

Entry requirements related to yellow fever vaccination (see health section).

Health Risks and Precautions in the DRC

Relevant Travel Health Notices

This section provides information and advice about health risks during travel to the DRC. Consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before travel for personalized advice.

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

Vaccines or medications can prevent diseases prevalent in the DRC. Discuss your travel plans with a healthcare provider to determine necessary precautions.

Hepatitis A: Risk of hepatitis A through contaminated food or water. Vaccination and strict food and water safety are recommended.

Yellow Fever:

• Risk: Yellow fever is a risk in the DRC.
• Entry Requirement: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers.
• Recommendation: Vaccination is strongly recommended. Consult a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance. Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

*Country entry requirements may not fully reflect yellow fever risk at your destination. Verify additional requirements with the diplomatic or consular office of your destination.

COVID-19: COVID-19 remains a global health risk. Vaccination and boosters are recommended. Verify destination-specific requirements and consult a healthcare professional.

Influenza (Flu): Annual flu vaccination is recommended. Flu occurs year-round in the tropics. Practice good hand hygiene and wear a mask if symptomatic.

Malaria:

• Malaria is a significant risk in the DRC.
• Antimalarial medication is strongly recommended for most travelers.
• Consult a healthcare provider before travel to discuss options.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times using repellents, bed nets, and protective clothing.

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop malaria-like symptoms during or after travel.

Rabies: Rabies is present in dogs and wildlife. Avoid contact with animals. If bitten or scratched, wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention. Rabies treatment may be limited in the DRC, requiring potential return to Canada for treatment. Rabies vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers.

Polio:

• Polio is present in the DRC.
• The WHO recommends that travelers staying longer than 4 weeks receive a polio vaccine dose 1-12 months before departure, even if previously vaccinated.

Measles: Measles is highly contagious. Ensure you are fully protected against measles before travel.

Meningococcal Disease: The DRC is in the African Meningitis Belt. Vaccination should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially for high-risk travelers.

Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a risk. Vaccination is recommended. Practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles, and ensure sterile tattooing and piercing practices.

Safe Food and Water Precautions

Contaminated food and water can cause illness. Follow these precautions:

• “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it” – eat only safely prepared food.
• Avoid getting water in eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater.
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, or swimming.

Eat and drink safely abroad

Cholera:

• Cholera is a risk in parts of the DRC.
• Practice strict food and water safety.
• Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers.

Travelers’ Diarrhea: Common illness from contaminated food or water. Practice food and water safety and carry oral rehydration salts.

Typhoid: Bacterial infection from contaminated food or water. Vaccination is recommended, especially for those traveling to rural areas or for extended periods.

Schistosomiasis: Risk from freshwater contact (lakes, rivers). Avoid swimming, bathing, or wading in untreated freshwater. No vaccine or medication is available.

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention

Insect bites transmit many diseases. Protect yourself:

• Use approved insect repellent.
• Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
• Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
• Use mosquito netting if sleeping outdoors or in non-enclosed spaces.
• Check for ticks after outdoor activities.

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

African Trypanosomiasis (Sleeping Sickness): Spread by tsetse fly bites. Protect yourself from bites, especially in rural areas. Avoid bright or dark clothing. No vaccine available.

Chikungunya: Risk exists. Spread by mosquito bites. Protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Dengue: Sporadic risk. Spread by mosquito bites, mainly during daytime. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. No vaccine available.

Lymphatic Filariasis: Spread by mosquito bites. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. No vaccine available.

Onchocerciasis (River Blindness): Spread by blackfly bites near rivers. Protect yourself from blackfly bites. No vaccine available.

Animal Precautions

Avoid contact with animals to prevent animal-borne diseases like rabies and bird flu. Avoid undercooked meat. Supervise children closely around animals.

Plague: Risk exists. Spread by flea bites and contact with infected animals. Avoid contact with rodents and fleas.

Mpox (Monkeypox): Risk exists. Spread through contact with infected animals or people. Follow public health measures and avoid contact with rodents and primates.

Person-to-Person Infections

Reduce the risk of respiratory infections (flu, COVID-19):

• Stay home if sick.
• Wear a mask in crowded indoor settings.
• Practice hand hygiene.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Hand hygiene
Respiratory infection prevention

Lower STI, HIV, and mpox risk:

• Get mpox vaccine if eligible.
• Reduce sexual partners.
• Use condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS travel advice

Tuberculosis: Risk is low for most travelers. High-risk travelers (healthcare workers, those visiting prisons or refugee camps) should discuss precautions with a healthcare provider.

Ebola Disease: Sporadic outbreaks occur. Avoid contact with bodily fluids of people with Ebola or unknown illnesses and avoid contact with wild animals. Vaccine available for Ebola virus, but not for Sudan virus and others.

Marburg Virus Disease: Sporadic outbreaks may occur. Avoid contact with bodily fluids of infected people and contact with bats and wild animals. No vaccine or specific treatment available.

Marburg virus disease

HIV: Risk from unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles (medical or recreational).

Medical Services and Facilities

Healthcare is adequate in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi but may lack supplies. Immediate payment is generally required. Medical evacuation can be expensive and necessary for serious conditions. Obtain comprehensive travel insurance.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in the DRC. Bring sufficient supplies in original containers, carry prescriptions, and pack in carry-on luggage. Check legality of medications in the DRC.

Keep in Mind…

Travel decisions and personal safety are your responsibility. Be prepared for limited medical services and pack a travel health kit.

Laws and Culture in the DRC

Abide by local laws. Learn about assistance if arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Drug offenses result in severe penalties, including prison and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Carry a certified copy of your passport and visa and keep originals secure. Authorities may request identification at any time. Remain calm and cooperative.

Photographs

Photography is prohibited at government buildings, airports, and military installations and may result in arrest or detention.

Dress and Behavior

The DRC is conservative. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly, respect social and religious traditions, and ask permission before taking photos of people. Public displays of affection are not acceptable.

Lèse-majesté

Disrespecting the head of state or threatening national security is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment. Criticism of the government or state security forces can lead to intimidation, harassment, and arrest.

Driving

Carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Other Traffic Laws

Stop for flag raising (approx. 7:30 a.m.) and lowering (approx. 6 p.m.) daily. Failure to stop may result in fines.

Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized. Canadian consular services may be denied if local authorities consider you a DRC citizen.

Dual citizens information

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention does not apply between Canada and the DRC. Seek legal counsel immediately if your child is abducted. Canadian officials cannot intervene in private legal matters.

Useful Links

Money

Currency is the Congolese franc (CDF). US dollars are widely accepted (post-2009, good condition banknotes preferred). Credit cards are rarely accepted except in major hotels and restaurants. ATMs in large hotels may not always function.

Currency Declaration

Declare sums over US$10,000 upon arrival and any foreign currency upon exit.

Natural Disasters and Climate Risks in the DRC

Rainy Season

Rainy season: April to October (north), November to March (south). Flash flooding and landslides can disrupt essential services. Exercise caution and monitor local news and weather.

Seismic Activity

The DRC is in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes may occur.

Earthquake safety information

Volcanoes

Volcanic eruptions are common. Mount Nyiragongo near Goma is highly active. Exercise extreme caution near volcanoes, heed warnings, and monitor local media.

Forest and Bush Fires

Frequent from June to August. Fire risk is high and air quality may deteriorate. Stay away from affected areas, follow emergency service instructions, and check local media.