Kananga Kasai-central, Democratic Republic Of The Congo Travel Guide
Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers aged 9 months or older. You need to provide proof of vaccination with your original International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) upon arrival. Without it, entry may be denied.
Beyond Yellow Fever, public health bodies strongly advise several other vaccinations. These include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and Polio. Rabies vaccination also gets a recommendation if you plan activities with animal contact or extended stays in remote areas. Malaria poses the most significant health risk in the DRC, including Kananga. Consulting a travel doctor for a prescription for anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended.
Healthcare facilities in Kananga are very basic, lacking modern equipment, medicines, and specialist personnel. Serious medical issues cannot be adequately treated locally. Medical evacuation to an international standard facility (e.g., in South Africa or Europe) is essential for severe illnesses or injuries. It's possible for this to be extremely expensive. Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) are rudimentary and unreliable.
Water Safety: Assume all tap water is unsafe. Use only bottled water that is sealed from reputable sources, boiled water, or water purified with a reliable filter or tablets. LifeStraw offers convenient filtration options. Food Hygiene: Be extremely careful. Eat only food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, fish, eggs, and street food unless freshly prepared and piping hot. Peel all fruits and vegetables yourself. Practice rigorous hand hygiene.
Vigilance is paramount.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching common in crowded areas. Secure valuables.
Armed robbery occurs, targeting perceived wealth. Avoid displaying valuables.
Awareness of past conflict.
Kasai conflict (2016-2018) ended, but security dynamics can be unpredictable.
Possible harassment by armed groups or corrupt officials outside city limits.
Use great caution.
Travel in groups or use pre-arranged, trusted transport after dark.
Areas can be poorly lit, increasing risks when walking alone.
A well-stocked personal first aid kit is crucial, as local supplies are limited. Consider including broad-spectrum antibiotics, antimalarials, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, bandages, and oral rehydration salts. Adventure Medical Kits provide specialized first aid supplies for travelers.
Comprehensive travel insurance is required. Your policy must cover emergency medical evacuation to a facility outside the DRC, as local facilities are inadequate for serious conditions. Verify that your policy covers travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Providers like World Nomads or SafetyWing cater to adventurous travelers.
Driver, hotel manager, in-country host.
Your home country's mission in Kinshasa.
Your travel insurance provider’s 24/7 assistance number.
112 (low reliability).
118.
Consider using Pacsafe anti-theft bags and products to secure your belongings.
