Matadi Bas-congo, Democratic Republic Of The Congo Travel Guide
Matadi experiences a tropical savanna climate, defined by two separate seasons: a long rainy season and a shorter dry season.
The Rainy Season (October to May) brings high humidity and frequent, often heavy, rainfall. The temperature stays warm, ranging from 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (90°F) during the day. Nights are warm, usually between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73°F). Annual snowfall is between 1,200-1,500 mm (47-59 inches). Humidity often exceeds 80%.
In the dry period (June to September), less rain means clearer skies and easier travel on unpaved roads. This period works well for outdoor exploration.
The wet season (October to May) brings lush, green landscapes. However, high humidity and heavy rainfall can interrupt travel plans. Unpaved roads may become muddy and impassable. Increased mosquito activity during this season calls for extra vigilance for malaria prevention.
Most foreign nationals require a visa.
Passport valid for 6 months, two blank pages, passport-sized photos.
Citizens of Burundi, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe for up to 90 days without a visa.
Plan your application well in advance.
Invitation letter, confirmed flight itinerary, proof of sufficient funds, completed form.
An online e-Visa system exists; confirm requirements with an embassy or consulate.
Prepare for process upon arrival.
Fees vary by nationality and visa type (e.g., $100-$300 USD for single entry tourist visa).
Present passport, valid visa, and Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate to officials.
The local currency is the Congolese Franc (CDF). The United States Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and often favored for larger transactions and hotel payments. Carry smaller denominations of USD for convenience. Exchange CDF in Kinshasa or at official banks and exchange bureaus. Avoid unofficial street money changers due to fraud risks. ATMs are scarce and often unreliable outside of major banks in Kinshasa; they are very limited in Matadi. Plan to carry sufficient cash.
Utilize local markets for fresh produce. Eat at local "malewa" (small eateries) for authentic and budget-friendly meals. Use ride-sharing taxis or moto-taxis for intra-city transport. Haggle over prices for private transport and market purchases, as this is often expected. Carry small denominations of USD and CDF to simplify transactions.
$50 - $115 USD per day (basic guesthouse, local food, shared transport).
$135 - $280 USD per day (mid-range hotel, varied restaurants, private cab for particular paths).
$290 - $650+ USD per day (best available hotels, hotel restaurants, private car with driver).
Basic Guesthouse: $15 - $35 USD. Mid-range Hotel: $50 - $125 USD. Higher-end: $150 - $250+ USD.
Street food: $2.50 - $7.50 USD. Mid-range restaurant: $10 - $25 USD. Hotel restaurant: $20 - $40 USD.
The Democratic The nation of Congo has certain health and safety considerations that call for careful preparation.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all travelers aged nine months and of a greater age for admission to the DRC. Consult a travel health specialist for recommended vaccinations including Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Polio, Meningitis, Rabies, Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), and Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap).
Waterborne illnesses like Typhoid, cholera, giardiasis, and dysentery are risks. Foodborne illnesses, often causing traveller's diarrhea, are common. Heat-related illnesses like dehydration and heatstroke are possible.
Official crime statistics for Matadi by neighborhood are not publicly available. General vigilance is advised everywhere.
