🇨🇩Democratic Republic of the Congo

Africa· Updated 06/03/2026

Where can Democratic Republic of the Congo citizens travel visa-free? →

Information

Capital

Kinshasa

Population

116,452,162

Currency

Congolese franc (CDF FC)

Languages

français, lingala, swahili, kingwana, tshiluba, Kikongo

Continent

Africa

Calling code

+243

Timezone

Africa/Kinshasa

Area

2,345,409 km²

Government

Semi-presidential republic

National day

June 30 - Independence Day

Internet domain

.cd

About

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is Africa's second-largest country by area at 2,345,409 km². It has a population of about 116 million and faces major security challenges in the East. Capital: Kinshasa.

Safety

Risk level :Very high due to armed conflicts in the East, not recommended unless imperative

Risk areas

North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri - Armed groups (ADF, M23), violence, large displacementsEast of the country - Terrorism, high crime

Crime(High)

Avoid carrying valuables
Do not travel alone at night

Terrorism(High)

High risk of attacks by ADF and other groups, stay vigilant

Transport

Use secure vehicles, avoid public transport at night

Natural risks(Mining landslides, floods)

Avoid informal mining areas

Health(Weak healthcare system, epidemics (Ebola, malaria))

Mandatory vaccines (yellow fever), malaria prophylaxis, bottled water

Practical tips

Register with the consulate
Follow the advice of the French MFA
Have repatriation insurance

French Embassy in Kinshasa MONUSCO emergencies

Cost of living

Accommodation

Studio city center500

1-bedroom apartment in the city center800

1-bedroom apartment in the suburb400

3-bedroom apartment in the city center1,500

3-bedroom apartment in the suburb1,000

Food

Inexpensive restaurant meal5

Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant20

McDonald's menu10

Local beer (0.5L)3

Cappuccino4

Water (1.5L)1

Bread (500g)2

Milk (1L)3

Eggs (12)2

Chicken (1kg)8

Apples (1kg)5

Bananas (1kg)1

Transport

Public transport ticket0.50

Monthly transport subscription20

Taxi ride (start)2

Taxi (1km)1

Gasoline (1L)1.20

Leisure

Fitness membership (monthly)50

Tennis court (1h weekend)10

Cinema5

Theater10

Health

General practitioner consultation20

Dentist consultation30

Antibiotic medications10

Cold medications (6 days)15

Others

High-speed internet (60 Mbps+)30

Mobile plan (calls + 10GB)15

Public services for 85m² apartment50

Jeans (Levis 501 or similar)40

Nike sports shoes80

International primary school (monthly)200

Practical information

Electricity

Voltage220V

Frequency50Hz

Plug typesType C, Type D

Emergency numbers

Police117

Ambulance113

Fire department118

Practical information

Driving side

Right

Tap water

unsafe

Tipping

10-15% in restaurants, not mandatory