Is it safe to go self-driving in Congo? Find all practical safety tips for self-driving in Congo. Traveling to a new destination like D. R. Congo for the first time, especially for self-drive tours can be challenging. There is a lot that self-drive holidaymakers must put into consideration. This article brings you updated travel information and relevant safety tips to guide you on a self-drive safari in Congo.
Here is a list of safety tips to guide you on a self-drive in Congo
- Try as much as you can not to display signs of affluence and do not travel alone when it is dark.
- All your personal belongings, especially passports and visas plus other relevant travel documents are valid and well kept.
- Make the best use of the emergency calls, especially of the local tour operator you are dealing with. This is considering the slow response from police.
- Always keep track of the latest travel information before you embark on a road trip to Congo.
- When taking pictures, be aware of some public buildings and military facilities where photography isn’t allowed.
- If found trafficking drugs illegally, be rest assured of penalties including jail sentences/heavy fines.
- Do not walk alone and avoid as much as you can displaying your cash plus other personal property/luxurious or valuable items.
- Be keen enough when taking photos around some features such as rivers and lakes.
- Always be cautious with your surrounding area, and never trust anyone you bump into.
Health safety tips
- Consider vaccinating against yellow fever before you visit Congo. On the day of visiting the Democratic Republic of Congo for a holiday, carry with you a yellow fever card/certificate.
- Always stay updated with the outbreak of some diseases like Ebola. This can help you gain knowledge on how to avoid such infectious diseases.
Be aware of common crimes
- While on a road trip, be aware of security officials or individuals who may carry themselves as security officials and have ended up detaining or robbing foreigners in Kinshasa city. This kind of crime is normally experienced around festive seasons, especially during Christmas and New Year.
- Car theft, burglaries and armed robberies; this occurs not only in D.R. Congo but also in developed countries. Be keen enough on this kind of crime cases, especially while you are around North Kivu.
- When confronted by military/security officer/forces, do not allow soldiers/police to enter into your safari vehicle. Stay calm and avoid resisting when threatened.
Observe driving rules and regulations in Congo
- Respect the rest of the road users. When pedestrians are crossing, please stop to first let them pass. Respect should also showed when the Congolese flag is being raised or lowered. This is usually around 7:30 am and in the evening at 6:00 pm.
- Keep windows up and doors properly locked.
- Have your relevant travel documents ready for verification at roadblocks or checkpoints.
- When driving, respect the speed limit while in urban/city center or up country. The maximum speed limit to maintain when driving in Congo is 69 kph but in some areas like the rural areas, you can drive at 110 kph.
- When driving through the wildlife protected area, try as much as you can to keep your speed limit as per the set standards stipulated in the sign posts. When interacting with wildlife, keep a certain distance away from wildlife.
- On a road trip, consider wearing your belt at all costs. They are a must to be put on as they play a critical when road accident occurs.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol is prohibited even in the D.R. Congo.
- Avoid using a mobile phone while driving.
- Be aware that the road conditions in DRC do vary depending on the location and may not be of international standards. This requires you to drive carefully regardless of the destination; urban or upcountry.
Is Congo safe to visit?
Yes, Congo is safe for tourists to travel to and enjoy a holiday. But first, consider talking to the local expert on ground to guide you on safer destinations to visit.
Who do I need to drive or hire a car in Congo?
A valid driver’s license and an international driving license are key if you plan to hire a car in Congo for a self-drive. You also be 21 years and above to be allowed to drive a car in Congo. This age limit may vary depending on the car hire companies.
How to hire a self-drive vehicle in Congo?
To rent a self-drive car in Congo, you should be at least 21 years old. But remember that some tour operators even set it at 25. You also need a valid national driving license, international driving license plus passport. For payment, inquire from your tour operator/company about the active account details or mode of payment before you send money anywhere.
Places to visit in D.R. Congo
Some of the ideal places to consider a must-visit on African safari tour in D.R. Congo include Zongo waterfalls, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Lake Kivu, Goma, Kinshasa cities; Salonga National Park and others.
