Democratic Republic of the Congo

Border closures

Borders with neighbouring countries are currently closed until further notice.

Mining districts

You’ll need official clearance from the relevant DRC ministry or government department before visiting a mining district.

More information:

Driving permit

To drive in the DRC, you’ll need both:

• a valid international driving permit (IDP)
• your current Australian driver’s licence

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

You’re 5 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in the DRC than in Australia. Dangers include:

• aggressive driving
• low driving standards
• poor roads
• a lack of street signage and lighting

Military and police roadblocks are common.

Following large-scale prison breaks in Kinshasa, Béni and Kasangu, local authorities increased the number of checkpoints at night. Checkpoints include Gombe, Limete, Ngaba, Kintambo, Ngaliema, Ndjili, Mont Ngafula and around Camp Kokolo.

Criminals may use roadblocks to pose as police or military personnel and rob you. See Safety

To protect yourself while travelling on DRC roads:

• familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and practices
• be alert to possible hazards, especially at night
• check road conditions and risks before travel outside Kinshasa
• follow advice from local authorities

Carry government-issued identification, carte rose, carte grise and driver’s licence at all times.

Ask for credentials if approached by an officer.

If you travel outside Kinshasa, have contingency plans and take emergency equipment such as a satellite phone.

More information:

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use registered taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your hotel.

Avoid unofficial taxis or taxis hailed on the street. Robberies can occur.

Public transport

Don’t use public transport. Bus and rail services are unsafe due to poor safety standards and crime.

Boat travel

Many boats and ferries are overloaded, lack lifesaving equipment and aren’t seaworthy.

Kinshasa’s main ferry terminal is congested and can close at short notice. Pay attention to your personal security in and around the terminal.

Air travel

Kinshasa’s main airport, Ndjili International Airport is currently closed until further notice. Civil unrest has resulted in the cancellation of some flights to Kinshasa.

Local immigration and customs procedures at Kinshasa Airport are difficult. You may need help from people familiar with the process. If travelling by air, arrange for them to meet you when you arrive.

Pay attention to your personal security in and around the airport.

Avoid local airlines with poor maintenance and safety standards.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check the DRC’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government