Cheap flights to the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The flight time to the Democratic Republic of the Congo from the US will vary dramatically depending on whether you are flying out from the East Coast, the Midwest, or the West Coast. For instance, a flight from New York City’s JFK to Kinshasa will run take 18h 40m, while the same flight from Seattle International Airport will take a minimum of 24h 55m. Some of the more common points of origin in the United States include JFK, Hartsfield International Airport, LAX, and Seattle Tacoma Airport, although there are others. The most common point of entry into the Democratic Republic of the Congo is Kinshasa, but flight can also be arranged for Kisangani, Goma, and Lubumbashi.

Sadly, there are no direct flights to the Democratic Republic of the Congo from the United. States. All flights require a minimum of one stopover. However, flights from West Coast airports require a minimum of two or even three stopovers and flight times reflect this. Most of the US’ major cities offer flights to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, though, including Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle to name only a few. Be aware that a flight with two or three stopovers can last 48h or longer.

Travel within the Democratic Republic of the Congo is challenging at the best of times. There are few paved roads, and those that are paved are often in disrepair. Most roads remain dirt, though, and the rainy season turns these to mud. While there are trains available, most are inefficient and unreliable. Westerners should avoid them if possible. Small, private planes are the best way to get around DR Congo, but hostilities can make air travel dangerous.

While getting to attractions and sites can be challenging, there are plenty of things to do and see in DR Congo. One of the most popular destinations is Virunga National Park where visitors can catch a glimpse of gorillas and other wildlife. Mount Nyiragongon is also a popular destination. Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Lake Kivu, and Ma Valee are well worth your time, and Zongo Falls is almost always an impressive sight.

Yes, you will need a passport to enter DR Congo as a US citizen. The passport must be valid for another six months after your date of entry and have at least one blank page remaining. Also, note that you must have a visa to gain entrance and you cannot purchase one on arrival. It must be purchased ahead of time. Also, note that the Democratic Republic of the Congo is under a level three travel advisor and Americans are urged to reconsider travel to the area.