Democratic Republic of the Congo Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Healthcare System
The DRC's healthcare system is severely underdeveloped with critical shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and trained personnel. Public hospitals lack basic resources and sanitation standards are poor. Private clinics in Kinshasa offer better care but are still far below international standards.
Hospitals
In Kinshasa, private clinics like Clinique Ngaliema and CMC (Centre Médical de Kinshasa) provide the best available care for foreigners. Payment is required upfront, usually in cash (USD). For serious conditions, immediate evacuation is necessary. Always travel with comprehensive medical supplies.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies in Kinshasa stock basic medications, but counterfeit drugs are common. Bring all necessary medications from home in original packaging with prescriptions. Specialized medications are unavailable. Refrigerated medications cannot be reliably stored due to power outages.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage (minimum $250,000) is absolutely essential and non-negotiable. Verify that your policy covers the DRC, as many exclude it. Medical evacuation insurance should cover transport to South Africa or Europe.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a comprehensive medical kit including antibiotics, antimalarials, water purification tablets, and supplies for treating injuries
- Carry copies of all prescriptions and medical records
- Identify the nearest adequate medical facility before traveling to any area
- Arrange medical evacuation insurance and have emergency contact numbers readily available
- Avoid any medical procedures unless absolutely necessary; even blood transfusions carry high risks
- Water and food safety is critical - only drink bottled or purified water and eat thoroughly cooked food
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Active armed conflict in eastern provinces (North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri) involving multiple armed groups. Sporadic violence and protests occur in Kinshasa and other cities, often related to political tensions. Conflicts can escalate rapidly and unpredictably.
Armed robbery, carjacking, home invasions, and violent assault are common, particularly in Kinshasa. Criminals often operate in groups and may be armed. Police and military personnel have been involved in criminal activities. Kidnapping for ransom targets foreigners and wealthy individuals.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft are extremely common in crowded areas, markets, and transport hubs. Thieves work in groups and use distraction techniques. Items left in vehicles are frequently stolen.
Police and military personnel frequently stop foreigners at checkpoints demanding bribes, documentation checks, or 'fines.' Some are involved in criminal activities. Interactions can become threatening or violent.
Roads are in poor condition with potholes, lack of lighting, and minimal signage. Accidents are frequent. Drivers often lack training and vehicles are poorly maintained. Roadblocks and carjackings are common on intercity routes.
Malaria is endemic throughout the country and is a leading cause of death. Yellow fever, cholera, typhoid, dengue, and other tropical diseases are prevalent. Ebola outbreaks have occurred. HIV/AIDS rates are high. Water and food-borne diseases are common.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals posing as police or officials stop foreigners demanding to see documents, claiming violations, and demanding immediate payment of 'fines.' Some are actual police engaging in corruption. They may threaten arrest or confiscation of documents.
Street money changers offer favorable rates but use sleight of hand to short-change victims, provide counterfeit bills, or work with accomplices who rob victims after the exchange. Some will count money slowly while an accomplice steals from the victim.
Police or military personnel claim you photographed a restricted area (government buildings, military installations, infrastructure) and demand large fines or threaten to confiscate equipment and detain you.
Individuals approach tourists offering guide services or tours at low prices, then abandon them in dangerous areas, lead them to robbery setups, or demand much higher payment under threat.
At roadblocks and checkpoints, officials create reasons to delay or detain travelers, claiming missing documentation or violations, then demand payments to continue. They may threaten vehicle confiscation or arrest.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Security
- Register with your embassy immediately upon arrival and maintain regular contact
- Hire reputable security services for movements, especially in Kinshasa
- Maintain multiple means of communication including satellite phone if traveling outside major cities
- Keep emergency cash in USD (small denominations) hidden in multiple locations
- Have evacuation plans ready and know routes to the airport
- Vary your routines and routes to avoid predictability
- Stay informed through security briefings from your embassy and security services
- Never travel alone; always use trusted local contacts or security personnel
Documentation
- Carry certified copies of passport, visa, and yellow fever certificate at all times
- Keep originals in hotel safe
- Have digital copies stored securely online
- Obtain all necessary permits before travel (photography, research, business)
- Ensure visa is valid and correctly issued - check carefully as errors are common
- Keep embassy contact information readily accessible
- Document any police or official interactions with badge numbers and names
Money and Valuables
- Bring sufficient USD in cash (post-2013 bills in good condition) as ATMs are unreliable and often non-functional
- Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels
- Keep money hidden in multiple locations on your person and in luggage
- Never display wealth, expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics
- Use hotel safes but understand they may not be completely secure
- Have small denomination bills separate for bribes and small purchases
- Expect to pay for most services in cash including hotels and medical care
Transportation
- Use only vetted drivers and vehicles arranged through your hotel or security service
- Never use public transportation or motorcycle taxis
- Avoid all travel after dark
- Keep vehicle doors locked and windows up at all times
- Don't stop for anyone on the road unless at official checkpoints
- For intercity travel, use flights rather than roads when possible
- Ensure vehicles are well-maintained and have spare fuel
- Travel in convoy when possible, especially outside cities
Accommodation
- Stay only in hotels with 24-hour security guards and secure perimeters
- Choose accommodations used by international organizations and embassies
- Keep room doors and windows locked and secured at all times
- Know emergency exits and evacuation procedures
- Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify identity through hotel staff
- Keep valuables in room safe but maintain copies separately
- Be discreet about your room number and accommodation details
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card but understand coverage is limited outside cities
- Internet is slow and unreliable; download important information before travel
- Consider satellite communication devices for travel outside major cities
- Share your itinerary with embassy and trusted contacts
- Establish regular check-in schedules with contacts outside the country
- Be cautious discussing travel plans or criticizing the government in public or on phone
- Use VPN for sensitive communications
Health and Hygiene
- Only drink bottled water from sealed bottles; avoid ice
- Eat only thoroughly cooked food from reputable establishments
- Wash hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitizer
- Avoid contact with animals due to rabies risk
- Sleep under mosquito nets treated with insecticide
- Apply DEET-based insect repellent regularly, especially at dawn and dusk
- Avoid swimming in lakes or rivers due to parasites and waterborne diseases
- Seek medical attention immediately for any fever or illness
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly and conservatively; avoid revealing clothing
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Learn basic French phrases as it's the official language
- Show respect for local customs and authorities
- Avoid discussing politics, especially criticism of the government
- Be patient with delays and bureaucracy
- Greet people politely and take time for social pleasantries
- Avoid public displays of affection
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers face significant additional risks in the DRC including sexual harassment, assault, and violence. Gender-based violence is widespread and security forces have been implicated in sexual violence. Women should not travel alone and should take extensive precautions. Cultural norms are conservative regarding women's behavior and dress.
- Never travel alone; always be accompanied by trusted male colleagues or security personnel
- Dress very conservatively covering shoulders, chest, and legs; avoid tight or revealing clothing
- Avoid being alone with men you don't know well, including guides and drivers
- Stay in secure accommodations with 24-hour security
- Avoid all travel after dark without exception
- Be aware that reporting sexual assault to local police is often ineffective and may result in further trauma
- Carry a whistle or personal alarm
- Trust your instincts and remove yourself from uncomfortable situations immediately
- Consider traveling with organized groups or established NGOs rather than independently
- Be aware that cultural attitudes may not respect women's authority or independence
- Avoid bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues
- Have emergency contacts including embassy readily available
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex sexual activity is not explicitly criminalized in the DRC, but there are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Discrimination is not prohibited and same-sex relationships are not recognized.
- Do not disclose sexual orientation or gender identity to anyone
- Avoid any public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Do not discuss LGBTQ+ topics or rights publicly
- Be extremely discreet about personal relationships
- Avoid LGBTQ+ venues or events as they may be targeted
- Be aware that police will not protect you and may be hostile
- Consider whether travel to the DRC is necessary given the risks
- Have emergency evacuation plans ready
- Register with your embassy and inform them of your situation if comfortable doing so
- Connect with international LGBTQ+ organizations that may have resources for travelers in hostile environments
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is absolutely mandatory for travel to the DRC. Medical facilities cannot handle serious emergencies and evacuation to South Africa or Europe costs $50,000-$200,000. Many standard policies exclude the DRC due to security risks, so specialized coverage is required. Without proper insurance, you may be unable to receive necessary medical care or evacuation.
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