Expedition into Heart of Darkness - DR Congo and Republic of the Congo

Itinerary:   

Day 1. Arrival in Kinshasa (DRC)
Arrive in Kinshasa. Transfer to our hotel for overnight.

Day 2. Kinshasa - Zongo Waterfalls
Today we drive about 130 km to reach the spectacular Zongo Waterfalls, plunging about 65 meters down a rocky cliff into the Inkisi River. Overnight at Seli Safari Resort. B/-/-

Day 3. Zongo - Mbanza-Ngungu - Kisantu
We will drive to Mbanza-Ngungu, a historic town formerly called Thysville (or Thysstad), named after Belgian railway builder Albert Thys. Visit the colonial-era train station, the market and a local school. Continuing to Kisantu to explore one of Central Africa’s most beautiful botanical gardens and a striking cathedral that showcases colonial architecture. Overnight at Mbuela Lodge. B/-/-

Day 4. Kisantu - Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary - Kinshasa
Exciting day of visiting Lola Ya Bonobo, the world’s largest sanctuary for rescued bonobos. Bonobos (Pan paniscus) are our closest living relatives, sharing about 98–99% of our DNA. Bonobos are famous for their gentle and cooperative social structure. Unlike chimpanzees, they rarely fight; they resolve conflicts with sexual behaviors, grooming, and social bonding rather than aggression. Here, we can observe these gentle primates in a safe, semi-wild environment while learning about vital conservation efforts. Continue to Kinshasa for overnight. B/-/-

Day 5. Kinshasa City Tour
A day to explore Kinshasa, a city pulsing with music, art, and markets. Highlights include the Kinshasa Cathedral, local artisan shops, and riverside viewpoints. We shall also complete visa formalities in preparation for crossing into the Republic of the Congo. B/-/-

Day 6. Kinshasa - Brazzaville
This unique river crossing connects two national capitals just across the water from each other. This river is the main artery of the Heart of Darkness, and is the second-longest river in Africa, after the Nile, with a length of about 4,700 km. Despite being so close geographically, the two capitals are in different countries with distinct colonial histories: During World War II, Brazzaville became the symbolic capital of Free France in Africa, while Kinshasa remained under Belgian colonial rule. The river crossing will take about 30 min. Pick up from the port in Brazzaville after the passport formalities and drive to our hotel for overnight. B/-/-

Day 7. Brazzaville
Our day today is dedicated to exploring the city of Brazzaville - the capital and river port of the Republic of the Congo. It was also the former capital of French Equatorial Africa. Founded in 1883, it began as the village of Ntamo and was developed by the French into a European administrative and residential center. Today's city tour includes landmarks such as Basilique Sainte-Anne of the Congo, Cathédrale Sacré-Coeur, Le Palais des Congrès, and Matsoua Bacongo Avenue. where we can meet Les Sapeurs, Congo’s legendary fashion subculture, known for their bold, elegant style and love of self-expression. A Congo River boat trip in the afternoon will give us the chance to observe the activity along its banks. B/-/-

Day 8. Lesio-Louna Gorilla Sanctuary
Today begins early as we set off northward in a sturdy 4x4 vehicle for a 140-kilometer journey to Lesio Louna Reserve. The drive typically takes around 2.5 hours, passing through varied landscapes and glimpsing rural scenes along the route. Lesio Louna Reserve is notable for its diverse wildlife, including gorillas, monkeys, hippos, and numerous bird species. Upon arrival, we embark on a tranquil one-hour boat trip along the serene Louna and Living Rivers. We will observe wildlife in their natural habitat amidst the reserve's lush forests and calm waterways. Later in the afternoon, we will return to Brazzaville to spend the night. B/-/-

Day 9. Brazzaville - Pointe Noire
Today we shall fly to Pointe-Noire, a lively coastal city. We will explore the Diosso Gorges, dramatic rock formations steeped in local legend; the historic Slaves Road, a poignant reminder of the past. We will also visit the Makola Salt Glacier, a surreal landscape of salt and mineral deposits. B/-/-

Day 10. Tchimpounga Reserve
This day is to discover the Tchimpounga Reserve, home to rescued chimpanzees. This is Africa’s largest chimp sanctuary, about 50 km north of the city. We spend the afternoon relaxing on one of the Pointe-Noire beaches. B/-/-

Day 11. Departure from Pointe-Noire
The transfer to the airport is on your own and at your own expense. B/-/-

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PRACTICAL INFORMATION:

• The expedition through Heart of Darkness is “a destination less travelled” and at the same time “a Pioneer Tour” – read more here (points 10 + 12).
• The tour can be combined with experiences in Gabon, which are part of our cultural journey "Gabon and the Republic of Congo" – see them here

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