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The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), tucked away in the center of Africa, is a region unmatched in its variety and natural splendor. This enormous nation is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking natural beauties, despite its turbulent past.
The DRC provides intrepid travelers with an opportunity to experience unspoiled landscapes that few have seen. From thick jungles and gorgeous rivers to active volcanoes and breathtaking waterfalls.
In this article, I’ll explore 7 of the most amazing natural wonders in the DRC, which are jaw-dropping natural beauties to man.
Contents at a Glance
7 Natural Wonders to See in the Democratic Republic of Congo (Epic Sites)
1. Mount Nyiragongo
The Nyiragongo mountain, located in the center of Africa and specifically within the Virunga National Park’s Congolese biodiversity, is a visual feast. Lake Kivu and the city of Goma are 90 kilometers away.
There is a 200-meter-diameter lava lake there. Although this stratovolcano has experienced 32 eruption phases since its initial one in 1884, many researchers worldwide have expressed great interest in and curiosity about it.
Volcanic lava descends at up to 100 km/h, making it the fastest globally. Its most recent round of eruption occurred in May 2021. We encourage you to take a tour to see this amazing location, which is situated in the tourist town of Goma.
However, always be cautious because the volcano is quite active and is regarded as one of the most dangerous places in the world, even though this lava lake is nearly permanent.
2. The Mangrove National Park
The Mangrove National Park was created in 1992 and is situated in the Moanda Territory in the western Democratic Republic of Congo’s Central Kongo Province.
It is the nation’s sole marine park and has an extremely diverse ecology. The Mangrove National Park is home to many wetlands, mangrove forests, and shrub species. It is one of the most gorgeous tourist destinations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and we highly recommend visiting it.
Hiking along the Congo River or the Atlantic Ocean is welcome at the Mangrove Marine Reserve. You can also explore the area’s various aquatic species, which include mother cows, marine turtles, hippopotamuses, water birds (such as herons, storks, and whistling ducks), and other terrestrial species.
3. Kiubo Falls
The Kiubo Falls, one of the most stunning waterfalls in the nation, is situated in the Haut-Katanga province 300 kilometers from the capital of Lubumbashi. In essence, they are 60 meters high and 90 meters broad.
One of the DRC’s greatest natural beauties, the area features stunning woods, a variety of antelope species, and incredibly alluring elephant viewing.
Kiubo Falls is located in the Upemba National Park on the Lufira River. The park offers several fascinating and amazing sites to visit, including the Kiubo Falls Lodge, a welcoming establishment that makes for a memorable stay.
There are many other things to do, such as fishing, boating, tennis, basketball, and more. You can also have delicious food while listening to the sounds of Kiubo Falls in the evening.
4. Virunga National Park
Africa’s first national park, Virunga, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its extraordinary biodiversity and breathtaking scenery.
The DRC’s eastern region is home to this expansive 7,800-square-kilometer park that features forests, savannas, and volcanoes. The world’s largest lava lake may be found on the active Nyiragongo Volcano, one of the park’s main attractions.
A strenuous hike to the top of the volcano allows visitors to see the captivating sight of burning lava. In addition, Virunga is home to the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these amazing animals up close in their natural environment.
You may also like: Game Reserves and UNESCO Heritage Sites in Eswatini
5. Lake Kivu
One of Africa’s Great Lakes and a tranquil natural wonder, Lake Kivu spans the border between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda.
The lake is 2,700 square kilometers in size and sits at an elevation of 1,460 meters. It’s high hills and vivid green trees encircle its deep, crystal-clear waterways, giving it the ideal location for leisure and water-based sports.
In the immaculate waters of the lake, visitors can go swimming, boating, and fishing. There are several quaint towns and villages along Lake Kivu’s shoreline where visitors can experience the warmth and culture of the region.
Lake Kivu is also of scientific importance because of its distinctive submerged carbon dioxide and methane stores.
6. Okapi Wildlife Reserve
Found in the northern DRC, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve is home to the rare and elusive okapi, a relative of giraffes.
It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The reserve, which has a land size of over 13,700 square kilometers, is home to a wide variety of animals. Common animals found here incldue chimpanzees, forest elephants, and other bird species.
One of Africa’s most biologically diverse regions is the Ituri Forest’s dense primary rainforest. This place serves as a vital habitat for numerous indigenous and threatened species. Take a guided tour of the Okapi Wildlife Reserve to discover more about the area’s distinctive ecology. With this, you’ll appreciate the continuous efforts to preserve its priceless biodiversity.
7. Salonga National Park
The largest tropical rainforest reserve in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site is Salonga National Park.
Encompassing more than 36,000 square kilometers, the park is situated in the center of the Congo Basin. Interestingly, it can only be reached by boat, contributing to its aura of eerie seclusion.
Several threatened species, such as the African forest elephant depend on Salonga as their home. Other endangered species found here include the Congo peafowl and the bonobo.
The park is a haven for scientists studying wildlife because of its deep, pristine forests, which support a wide range of plant and animal species.
Navigating Salonga’s complex network of rivers and channels offers a singular and immersive experience of the rainforest’s interior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official language in the Congo?
French
What natural resources does the DRC have?
Diamond, gold, copper, cobalt, crude oil, and water are among the abundant natural resources found in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
What is the predominant religion in Congo?
About half of the population is Roman Catholic, 20% is mainline Protestant, 9% is Kimbanguist, and 9% is Muslim.
Conclusion – 7 Natural Wonders to See in the Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a nation rich in ecological significance and breathtaking natural beauty.
Notwithstanding the difficulties the nation endures, visitors visiting its gorgeous landscapes are nonetheless enthralling and inspiring.
In addition to delighting in the DRC’s spectacular beauty, travelers can help preserve its rare and delicate ecosystems by visiting these seven natural treasures.
