Bukavu South Kivu, Democratic Republic Of The Congo Travel Guide
The Dry Season runs from From june To august. This period brings cooler temperatures and noticeably less humidity. Skies are often clearer, offering expansive views of Lake Kivu and surrounding landscapes.
The Wet Season extends from September to May. This longer season features warmer temperatures and high humidity, having frequent rainfall. The heaviest rains typically fall in April and November.
Bukavu does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. Its highland location yields temperate conditions, avoiding extreme heat or cold.
Heavy rainfall during the wet the season may cause localized flooding and render unpaved roads impassable. This calls for a sturdy 4x4 vehicle and an experienced driver for travel in the suburbs at this time of year.
June to August (Dry)
Comfortable weather, lower humidity, clearer skies. Ideal for gorilla trekking and outdoor activities.
Potentially slightly higher demand for accommodation and permissions, though still generally accessible.
Sept-Oct, Feb-May (Early/Late Wet)
Fewer tourists, offering a quieter experience. Lush, green landscapes are picturesque.
Increased rainfall can make unpaved roads challenging and muddy. Trails become more slippery.
Nov-Jan (Peak Wet)
Very few tourists, allowing for more spontaneous planning. Possible lower prices for accommodations.
Heaviest rainfall can severely impact road conditions, limiting access. Outdoor activities less comfortable.
The dry season (June-August) provides the best conditions due to drier trails and easier movement through the woods.
Lake Kivu activities are year-round, but dry season has better weather. Town exploration is possible anytime, but dry season means less rain and mud.
Ideal for gorilla trekking
Acceptable with proper gear
Fewer tourists, challenging roads
Mild to warm year-round
Temperate conditions
Travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo, including Bukavu, calls for careful attention to visa and entry procedures. Most foreign nationals need a tourist visa to enter the country.
The application process typically calls for submitting physical documents to the embassy or consulate. Begin your visa application well in advance of your planned travel dates.
Gather documents for your visa application and for entry into the DRC. Processing times are different, taking several weeks.
Ensure you have all necessary paperwork prepared for your journey into the DRC.
Bukavu’s budgeting calls for a mix of local currency and US Dollars. Plan your spending based on your travel style.
The Congolese Franc (CDF) is the local currency. The US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted for larger transactions, including hotels, major purchases, and tour operators.
Carry small USD denominations for practicality and better exchange rates for smaller purchases.
Stays in basic guesthouses. Eats at local eateries. Uses moto-taxis or shared taxis. Focus on free or low-cost activities.
Accommodation: USD 20-50/night
Meals: USD 10-20/day
Chooses comfortable mid-range hotels. Dines at decent restaurants. Uses private taxis or pre-arranged transfers. Includes paid excursions.
Accommodation: USD 70-150/night
Meals: USD 30-60/day
Opts for best hotels and lodges. Enjoys fine dining. Arranges private 4x4 modes of transport and guided tours. High-end experiences.
Accommodation: USD 200-500+/night
Meals: USD 80-150+/day
| Category | Item | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodations | Basic Guesthouse | USD 20-50/night |
| Meals | Local Eatery (Malewa) | USD 3-7 per dish |
| Attractions | Gorilla Permit (Kahuzi-Biega) | USD 400 (may change) |
The region has certain health risks and safety concerns that demand careful preparation and vigilance.
Mandatory for all travelers 9 months+. Carry ICVP.
Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Polio, Rabies, Meningococcal, Routine Vaccinations.
Consult a travel doctor 6-8 weeks before your trip.
Healthcare facilities are basic compared to Western standards.
Resources are often strained, and specialized care is limited. Major medical emergencies may call for evacuation to Rwanda (Kigali) or a more developed country.
Bukavu has local hospitals (Provincial, Panzi) for common ailments, but advanced diagnostic capabilities may be absent.
Pharmacies have inconsistent stock; carry all required prescription medications with a doctor's note.
High risk throughout DRC. Take anti-malarials, use Insect repellent (DEET/picaridin), sleep under Mosquito nets, wear Long sleeves/trousers at dawn/dusk.
Cholera, Typhoid, Diarrhea. Drink only sealed Bottled water or boiled water. Avoid ice. Practice strict hand hygiene with Hand sanitizer.
Eat only thoroughly cooked food, served hot. Avoid raw vegetables unless prepared safely. Peel all fruits. Be cautious with street food.
South Kivu province has experienced periods of instability. While Bukavu city is typically more stable, crime remains a concern.
Potential for natural disasters exist. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Seismic activity (minor earthquakes), landslides/flooding during wet season, volcanic tremors (from Goma volcanoes).
Comprehensive travel insurance is a requirement. It should cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Look into World Nomads or SafetyWing. Also consider AirHelp for flight issues.
Police: 112 (reliability varies). No centralized ambulance. Keep embassy contact information, tour operator/hotel details. Medical evacuation is often the only viable option for critical situations.
