Where to stay in DRC

Accommodation options in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) vary depending on the region and city you are visiting. In major cities like Kinshasa and Lubumbashi, there are a range of hotels and guesthouses catering to business and leisure travelers. However, in more remote areas like national parks and nature reserves, accommodation options may be limited to basic lodges and camping sites. In the cities, you can find a range of hotels from budget to luxury options. Some of the popular international hotel chains have properties in the DRC, such as the Radisson Blu Hotel in Kinshasa and the Grand Karavia Hotel in Lubumbashi. There are also smaller guesthouses and boutique hotels that offer a more personalized and local experience. In national parks and nature reserves, accommodation options are generally more basic. Some parks have lodges or campsites run by the park authority or private operators, which offer basic amenities like beds, showers, and toilets. Some of the popular national parks in the DRC with accommodation options include Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and Garamba National Park. Overall, accommodation options in the DRC are generally more basic than in other African countries, but there are still options available for travelers of different budgets and preferences. It is important to research and plan ahead for your trip to ensure you find the best accommodation for your needs.

Mikeno Lodge

Mikeno Lodge is a popular accommodation option located in the heart of Virunga National Park in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The lodge is managed by the Congolese Wildlife Authority and offers a comfortable and eco-friendly experience for visitors. The lodge consists of 12 comfortable bungalows that are nestled into the forest, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The bungalows are equipped with modern amenities, including private bathrooms with hot water, solar-powered lighting, and comfortable beds. Mikeno Lodge also has a restaurant that serves delicious meals using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the lodge's own garden. The lodge also has a bar, a lounge area with a fireplace, and a terrace where guests can relax and enjoy the beautiful views. One of the main attractions of Mikeno Lodge is its proximity to the mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park. The lodge offers guided gorilla trekking expeditions, giving guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Tchegera Island

Tchegera Island Camp is a tented camp located on Tchegera Island, one of the many islands in Lake Kivu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The camp is run by Virunga National Park, which is known for its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes.

The camp consists of eight safari-style tents, each with comfortable beds, a private bathroom with hot water, and a private deck with views of the lake. The tents are set up in a natural forested area, providing guests with a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Tchegera Island Camp also has a restaurant that serves delicious meals using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fish from the lake. The camp also has a bar, a lounge area, and a bonfire area where guests can relax and socialize. One of the main attractions of Tchegera Island Camp is its proximity to the lake, which offers a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and boat tours. Guests can also explore the island's hiking trails and wildlife, including a variety of bird species.

Mt Nyiragongo Summit Shelters

The Mt Nyiragongo Summit Shelters are a unique type of accommodation located at the summit of Mt Nyiragongo, an active volcano in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The shelters are used as overnight accommodations for visitors who want to trek to the summit of the volcano to witness its incredible lava lake. The shelters are basic but comfortable, and can accommodate up to 12 people. Each shelter has a wooden platform with a mattress and a sleeping bag. Visitors need to bring their own warm clothing and personal items, as well as food and water for the overnight stay. The shelter's location at the summit of the volcano provides a unique and unforgettable experience, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the glowing lava lake. Visitors can spend the night watching the mesmerizing lava lake, which is one of the most active and largest in the world. The trek to the summit of Mt Nyiragongo can be challenging, but the experience of spending the night at the summit is well worth the effort. The shelter accommodations offer visitors a unique opportunity to witness the incredible natural beauty of the DRC's volcanic landscapes up close.

Orchids Safari Club

Orchids Safari Club is a lodge located in the north of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), near the town of Garamba National Park. The lodge is situated in the heart of the park, which is known for its wildlife and conservation efforts. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations with a rustic and authentic safari feel. The rooms are decorated with local materials and African art, and include amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, mosquito nets, and comfortable beds. There is also a restaurant on site that serves local and international cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area where guests can relax and socialize. Orchids Safari Club offers a range of activities for guests, including game drives, guided nature walks, and bird watching tours. The lodge also offers excursions to see the park's famous elephants and to visit the nearby village of Dungu. Garamba National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, buffalos, and many species of birds. Orchids Safari Club is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the DRC, while also enjoying comfortable accommodations and a range of activities.

Kibumba Tented Camp

Kibumba is a great choice for those wanting to stay within the park’s borders, offering an authentic camping experience amidst Virunga’s flora and fauna with the added benefit of not having to drive long distances to begin your trek.Considering the gorgeous vegetation which surrounds Kibumba, the 18 safari-style tents here are a wonderful way to immerse one’s self in the natural beauty of Virunga. The design of the two lodge buildings also contributes to the charming Congolese style of the camp. Recently installed plumbing provides flushing toilets and hot water for showers in the tents’ en-suite bathrooms, and the comfortable beds with linen bedding ensure a relaxing night's sleep.