The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), also known as Congo-Kinshasa, is Africa’s second-largest country, located in the heart of the continent. While rich in culture and natural resources, the DRC remains a high-risk destination for travelers due to ongoing security challenges, political instability, poor infrastructure, and limited medical services.

This guide highlights essential safety information for anyone considering travel to the DRC. Travelers are strongly advised to review the latest official travel warnings before planning any visit.

Overall Safety Situation

The DRC is classified as a high-risk country with serious concerns related to crime and political violence. Security conditions can change quickly and are often unpredictable, even in major cities such as Kinshasa.

Key Safety Risks

• High levels of violent and non-violent crime

• Weak law enforcement and limited emergency response

• Armed militias operating in several regions

• Poor road conditions and unsafe transportation

• Extremely limited medical facilities

⚠️ Travel to eastern parts of the country is strongly discouraged.

Crime & Personal Safety

Crime is common in urban areas and often targets foreigners.

Common risks include:

• Pickpocketing and theft

• Armed robbery and carjacking

• Fake police or military roadblocks

• Burglaries near hotels and residential areas

Crimes often occur in traffic jams, shopping areas, restaurants, nightclubs, and around hotels, especially after dark.

Safety tips:

• Avoid moving around at night

• Keep valuables hidden

• Do not resist if confronted

• Always carry photocopies of your passport, not the original

Transportation & Road Safety

• Roads are generally in poor condition and may be impassable during the rainy season

• Public transportation is unsafe and not recommended

• Roadblocks are common and may involve bribe requests

If driving:

• Keep doors locked and windows closed

• Remain calm and respectful at checkpoints

• Do not allow strangers or “officials” into your vehicle

Health & Medical Care

Medical services in the DRC are very limited.

Important health considerations:

• Hospitals often require cash payment in advance

• Medical supplies and medicines are scarce

• Medical evacuation insurance is essential

Required & Recommended Vaccinations

• Yellow Fever (mandatory for entry)

• Strongly recommended: malaria prevention, polio, cholera, typhoid, measles, influenza

Avoid untreated water, raw foods, and contact with freshwater due to disease risks.

Regional Security Concerns

❌ Extreme Danger Areas (Do Not Travel)

• North Kivu (including Goma)

• Active conflict zones in eastern DRC

These areas experience:

• Armed rebel activity

• Ongoing violence

• Displacement of civilians

• Unreliable security presence

Legal & Cultural Awareness

• You must carry your passport at all times

• Photography of government buildings may lead to arrest

• Laws are inconsistently enforced

• Foreigners are fully subject to local laws

If detained, request immediate contact with your embassy.

Final Advice

Travel to the DRC involves serious risks and is recommended only for essential purposes with proper security arrangements.

Before Traveling:

• Review official travel advisories

• Get full travel & medical evacuation insurance

• Carry enough cash

• Bring all required medications

• Register with your embassy

• Stay alert at all times

Leisure travel is not advised for most regions of the DRC.