DR Congo Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders must apply for a visa at a DR Congo embassy or consulate before traveling.
Spanish citizens require a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Visas must be obtained in advance from a DRC embassy. Due to security concerns in many regions, travel requires careful planning.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, visa obtained in advance, yellow fever vaccination certificate, return ticket, and letter of invitation or tour confirmation for some visa types.
Fines, detention, and potential deportation.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Meningitis, Rabies, Polio booster
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
DRC has significant security challenges. Eastern provinces (North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri) have active armed conflicts. Virunga National Park has security protocols but risks exist. Kinshasa is safer but has crime. The western and southern provinces are generally more stable. Always check current advisories and travel with reputable operators.
Money & Costs
Currency
FC Congolese Franc (CDF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $70 · Mid: $150 · Luxury: $400+
Tipping
Tipping is expected, especially for guides and porters. Park fees and guide tips for gorilla trekking are significant.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, D, E, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
112 (Emergency)
Getting There
Main Airports
Goma (GOM) · Lubumbashi (FBM) · Kinshasa (FIH)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
For gorilla trekking in Virunga, June to September and December to February offer drier conditions. The vast country has varied climates. The eastern regions have two dry seasons. The Congo Basin rainforest is wet year-round. Always prioritize security over weather when planning.
Cultural Notes
The DRC has over 200 ethnic groups with diverse traditions. Congolese rumba music influenced global music. Traditional crafts include intricate Kuba cloth and masks. The country's turbulent history under Belgian colonialism and subsequent conflicts has shaped its culture. Despite hardships, Congolese are known for resilience and vibrant cultural expression.
Insider Tips
French is the official language. The Congolese Franc is the currency; US dollars are widely used. The country is vast (Western Europe-sized) with poor infrastructure. Domestic flights are often the only practical way to travel. The DRC offers incredible biodiversity but requires careful planning and security awareness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to visit the DRC?
Safety varies dramatically by region. The eastern provinces (North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri) have active armed conflicts and are dangerous. Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and western provinces are safer with normal precautions. Virunga National Park operates with security protocols but check current conditions. Always use reputable tour operators and check advisories.
Can I see mountain gorillas in DRC?
Yes, the DRC's Virunga National Park is home to mountain gorillas in the Mikeno sector. Gorilla permits cost $400 (cheaper than Rwanda). The park has had security incidents, so check current conditions with Virunga authorities. When safe to visit, the gorilla experience is exceptional with fewer tourists than Rwanda.
What is Virunga National Park?
Virunga is Africa's oldest national park (established 1925) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It spans 7,800 km² with incredible biodiversity including mountain gorillas, forest elephants, hippos, and the active Nyiragongo volcano with its lava lake. Despite conflicts, dedicated rangers protect the park. Check security conditions before planning visits.
Can I climb Nyiragongo Volcano?
Nyiragongo is an active volcano near Goma with one of the world's largest lava lakes. When security permits, overnight treks to the summit offer extraordinary views of the glowing lava lake. The climb takes 4-6 hours up. Due to ongoing security concerns in the region, verify current safety conditions with Virunga National Park authorities.
How big is the DRC and how do I get around?
The DRC is Africa's second-largest country, roughly the size of Western Europe. Roads are poor to non-existent in many areas. Domestic flights are essential for covering distances. River travel on the Congo River is an option for some routes. The Congo River is too dangerous for commercial navigation in parts. Plan logistics carefully with experienced operators.